First Time

[James E. Smith III]

O.k. people this is my first time trying to get a message through, so I 
hope it works.  First off, I have been a Disney fan, both comics and 
cartoons, since I was little kid. Being a sickly kid, and having severe 
asthma and allergies, I read quite a bit; and very soon got acquainted 
with Disney comics. Though at the time, I did not that I loved the Carl 
Barks Scrooge and Donald Duck stories especially.  There was something to 
the duck stories with their simplicity of elegance and story,, that 
really stood out. When I was in the hospitial,reading stories such as 
"The Giant Robot Robber" over and over again kept me occupied for hours. 

Now, as an adult, I have regained that lost innocense and wonder over the 
Barks stories. Last year, I finished my master's degree with my thesis 
being the evolution of humor in the Donald Duck cartoons. Two years ago, 
I also had the opportunity to visit the Disney Archives for a few days. 
It was an honor and something I will  not forget for the rest of my life. 

Now, I hope to continue my studies on "Barksian" literature and hopefully 
be able to pass on my love of comics to others. Barks, just how can you 
compare him to others? 

Now, I've come across Don Rosa, and my love for Scrooge and Donald are 
even greater than ever. My knowledge of other Disney comics across the 
world is somewhat limited, and I find it fascinating that the Disney 
comics are held is such regard across the world. It's sad to say that 
America does not even appreciate it's own culture. 


By the way, Don, if you're watching, just what Tailspin episodes did you 
write? I have a penpal who wants to track them down. 


Sincerely, 


James Smith III
1615 Main
Williston, ND   58601
jsmith3 at host1.dia.williston.nd.us