Spy Vs Spy 2 is written by David Shayne with a foreword by J.J. Abrams. It, of course, covers the story of the "Spy vs. Spy" feature, originally published in Mad. Every Mad fan knows "Spy vs. Spy" for both its storyline and artwork. The book follows Spy Vs Spy: The Complete Casebook (which I didn't read but must!). It did not disappoint.

The wry humor. The great graphics. Actually, anyone interested in art should study the graphics. One can follow them from chiaroscuro to color, from early to late, from broad geometrics from the magazine to more detailed comic strips.

It is also political - for those of you who aren't already familiar with this American icon. The originator was Antonio Prohias. He escaped from Communist Cuba, where his lampoons of the local government were not particularly welcome. Mad was the perfect host for his concept: a spy garbed in black and his identical twin clothed in white, both bent on mutual and pointless destruction. It was fraught with possibilities for scarring wit.

Since Prohias' death, his concept has been kept alive with a cadre of artists, and the world - unfortunately - keeps them fed with political absurdity enough to keep fans well-nourished. One of the neatest things is that Author Shayne uncovers the real intrigue behind the development of this cartoon.

This book is a testament to the fact that if one takes an idea that is rooted in reality, treats it artistically and with a little humor, it may never die.