Legendary artist Gene Colan the subject of new bio

From the Exeter News, famed Batman and Daredevil artist Gene Colan is the subject of a detailed and expansive biography from rookie biographer Tom Field, a longtime comic -- and Colan -- fanatic and accomplish journalist.

Field, editor of the former Portsmouth Press back in the 80s and currently an editor of business trade publications, is an accomplished journalist. But this biography, "Secrets in the Shadows, The Art and Life of Gene Colan," is Field’s first published book.

Field initially met the acclaimed illustrator about seven years ago when Colan made a personal appearance in Worcester, Mass., then became better acquainted with him through an Internet chat room Colan had established. The two also conversed by telephone. According to Field, Colan is the type of guy who’ll pick up the phone to call a fan. Field said, "Imagine growing up as a fan of the Rolling Stones, then Keith Richards calls you up!"

Field is also a friend of Glen David Gold, author of "Carter Beats the Devil." Gold, aware of Field’s keen interest in Colan, mentioned this to a publisher he knew. That publisher, John Morrow of TwoMorrows Publishing of Raleigh, N.C., loved Gene Colan and warmed to the idea of a retrospective of his art and life. He offered Field a book contract and a deadline.