MEN’S ADVENTURE QUARTERLY
Issue # 4
Edited by Robert Deis & Bill Cunningham
Pulp 2.0
148 pgs
When repeating an operation several times, you can be
assured of one of two results. One, the action is lessened and the quality
diminishes with repetition. Or, two, the process becomes refined and the quality
increases exponentially. With this series, there’s no doubt it is the second of
theory that becomes instantly evident. Each new issue of “Men’s Adventure
Quarterly” is unbelievable better than the last. How that is possible is
obviously the work of editors Robert Deis and Bill Cunningham. Both are masters
at their respective interests and merging of those two publishing sensibilities
is sheer genius.
Deis is the consummate MAM’s expert and his knowledge of
that subject is only equaled by his love for it. As with the previous four installments,
issue 4 has a theme; one near and dear all fans of this literature – Jungle Girls.
From the opening page to the last, we are presented with a cornucopia of intriguing
articles, action packed fanciful fiction and several captivating photo
features.
The 148 page magazine is book-ended by two segments
spotlighting two very different women and their particular connection with the
world of Men’s Adventure Magazines. The first is a series of new and reprinted
articles about Jane Dolinger, a globetrotting beauty who was both a gifted
writer and lovely cheesecake model. Deis’ presenting this little know
adventuress to the world is worth the price of the issue. Ms Dolinger was a one
of kind character just as sensational of those she invented in her fiction. Her
pictorials also display a natural beauty completely comfortable with her own
sexuality. We were much impressed with Deis’ interview with writer Lawrence
Abbott who wrote Ms Dolinger’s biography; “Jane Dolinger : The Adventurous Life
of an American Travel Writer.”
The book’s middle section features four MAMS reprint stories
about white men caught in lost jungle cities from the Amazon to Borneo and confronting lethal but sexy female warriors.
Each is a gem and much fun. All are gorgeously illustrated by classic art from
various MAM artists of the past, from Gil Cohen to Mort Kunstler.
And then the volume wraps up with a huge photo tribute to
the late German actress Marion Michael who came to stardom by starring in two
internationally celebrated jungle movies in the mid-60s, “Liane – Girl From the
Jungle” and “Nature Girl and the Slaver.” In the former she was billed as the
German Sheena. A pretty blonde sweetheart, she was also compared to Brigette
Bardot. Of course this is where the other half of the editing team, Bill Cunningham,
shines. Once again, Cunningham’s skill at page layouts and his use of the art
and photos is spot-on. He knows instinctively how to make every single page a
dramatic presentation and joy to simply behold.
Deis’s articles are tremendous and Cunningham gives them the stunning visual stage they so richly deserve. “Men’s Adventure Quaterly # 4” is truly a wonderful treasure to any love of MAMS and pulps in general. Honestly, we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.
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