I must admit to having felt honored when I was asked by Peter Murano to write a review of his excellent book The George Reeves Adventures of Superman Companion. Until recently, my association with classic TV had been limited to Lost in Space in the form of various projects and contributions, but the fact is that my fascination with TAOS actually predated any other boyhood interests.

I distinctly recall the show being aired by WGN-TV in Chicago seven days a week during the early to mid '60's, with the week day time slot being 4:00PM. Although I was also an avid Chicago Cubs fan, that loyalty would always be suspended if a game were to run late on any given day and interfere with my daily afternoon Superman fix. Quite simply, this was a show that made an indelible impression on me as a young man, due in large part to George Reeves' powerful portrayal of the Man of Steel.

Peter Murano's written contribution to the world of TAOS is impressive at first glance, and manages to maintain that status upon close scrutiny. The striking cover illustration by fellow artist Randy Garrett depicting a mature, latter-season Superman is the first indication that this work is indeed something special. A quick scan of the 352 pages that follow reveals a carefully crafted and thoroughly researched chronicle of the classic series, complete with a generous number of still color images obtained via video capture.

Unlike Gary Grossman's earlier effort “Serial to Cereal”, which assumed essentially a season-by-season approach, Peter analyzes each episode individually while including special features such as "trivia test," "memorable lines," and "secret identity alert." The design of the book is novel and inviting, and coupled with the content, it creates a scenario where one becomes quite unwilling to put it down. Another notable feature is the thorough documentation of guest stars and guest villains, including other famous roles that they had played or would claim in later years. One notable omission, however, involved The Golden Vulture guest star Vic Perrin's most memorable later role: that of the Control Voice of the classic series The Outer Limits. That one oversight aside, however, I can truthfully say that this book should find its way into the home of every TAOS fan, particularly as a companion to the recently released DVD sets by Warner Home Video.

The ability to look up details about individual episodes including the character actors is an invaluable tool, and one that makes viewing these classics once again that much more enjoyable. I only wish that George could know what staying power his unforgettable character has had, coupled with a positive influence on so many that becomes difficult to describe. Several of us have felt compelled to honor him with artistic projects and tributes of various types, and Peter Murano's example in the form of a literary contribution is, quite simply, a "must have.“

-Ron Gross

Author Peter Murano has put together one of the most complete and informative television series companion books ever written – “The George Reeves Adventures of Superman Companion”. This is of course the groundbreaking television series starring George Reeves as the Man of Steel. It's all here in 352 8X11 pages, in full color. And, it's all on heavy stock, glossy white paper so that the photos - b&w for the first seasons, and color for the later seasons - really jump out at you.

This high quality paper no doubt results in the $39.95 price, but it's such a gorgeous looking volume, and will stand up to such heavy use, that it's well worth it. The book contains detailed information on each of the 104 episodes of the show, including ratings on a ten-point scale, five trivia questions for each episode, information on flying sequences, superpowers used in each episode, memorable lines, secret identity alerts, supporting cast notes, and editorial comments.

Overall, the book is highly recommended for fans of the show and for Superman fans in general. Baby Boomers loved this series – but if you are younger, you may be unaware of it. Well, the DVDs have been released for all 104 episodes, and Murano’s “Companion” is just that – the perfect companion to help get you “into” this great vintage television show. Find out why actor George Reeves made such a lasting impression as both Clark Kent and Superman – he was immensely likeable and believable.

This book is praised for its exhaustive coverage, personal touch and insight, and the high-quality paper and photos make it a visually appealing volume. A super-job all around, and a great gift idea for sci-fi, vintage television, and comic book hero fans of all ages. I treasure my copy – signed by theauthor – and you will too.