Celebrating the Fourth: With Charlie Brown?

I looked at several ideas for how we could celebrate the 4th of July here at Cereal Creatures. Sure, there are truly great comics and cartoons that were rooted in nostalgic Americana. G.I. Joe (a real American Hero!), Archie or even that strange Hanna-Barbera series The Funky Phantom, which was a Scooby-Doo knock off with a ghost in place of the titular Great Dane.

But then, I considered that American classic, Charlie Brown. Making a comeback on Apple TV+, the Peanuts universe is one that has always interested me. I read the comics in the newspaper (yes, it was the thing), but like most, my first recollection of Peanuts, Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang was either "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" (1966) or "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (1965). They've aired during their respective holiday season for years until recently moving to Apple's subscription service. Noted for their unique animation style, use of real child voice actors, and of course, that music, one can't look at the printed adventures of Charlie Brown without hearing those unforgettable presentations--and how could we not showcase Charlie Brown, who surprisingly never got an Independence Day special. (Arbor Day--you're covered!)

I just watched the new Apple TV+ documentary on Peanut's creator, Charles Schulz, "Who Are You, Charlie Brown?". It was highly enjoyable and if you ever wondered where these unique characters originated, your questions would be answered. Presented as part documentary, part actual Charlie Brown story, you'll certainly find insight into Schulz's life, inspiration, and creativity. I, personally, can appreciate sitting down to a blank page (digital, in my case) and needing to create that next story with characters you both created and love.

This Fourth of July, check out our first-ever drawing of the timeless Charlie Brown and our modern, Riverdale-style take on America's favorite blockhead.