Marvel Masterworks: The Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1

Len Wein co-created DC’s Swamp Thing in 1972 before moving to Marvel for lengthy runs on titles like Amazing Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Incredible Hulk and Thor. He helped bring Giant-Size X-Men #1 into the world. Returning to DC as an editor, Wein oversaw an influx of British writing talent, highlighted by Alan Moore’s Watchmen miniseries. Wein also has worked in television and animation, returning to his roots to develop a Swamp Thing screenplay. He has written comic-book adaptations of The Simpsons and Futurama.

Chris Claremont is best known for his sixteen-year run on Uncanny X-Men. Claremont’s focus on the themes of prejudice and tolerance resonated with comics fans. Under his pen, the X-Men franchise spawned a vast array of spin-offs. His other credits include Iron Fist, Ms. Marvel, Power Man and Spider-Woman. Claremont has returned to the X-Men universe in New Exiles, GeNext, X-Men Forever, Chaos War: X-Men and Nightcrawler.

Dave Cockrum (1943-2006) worked in the comic-book industry after a six-year stint in the Navy. With a talent for illustrating super heroes, Cockrum landed a gig on Legion of Super-Heroes for DC Comics. Cockrum showcased his knack for innovative costume designs, becoming the first artist to revamp the look of the classic futuristic super-hero team since its original Silver Age debut. After leaving Legion in 1975, Cockrum collaborated with writer Len Wein to create a new lineup of X-Men – including Wolverine, Nightcrawler and Colossus. Cockrum’s bold new mutants quickly caught the attention of comic-book fans, transforming X-Men into a best-selling title. Although Cockrum reduced his artistic output in recent years, his strong influence on modern creators remains steadfast.