Harvey Pekar's "Cleveland"

Harvey Pekar is a Cleveland legend. As a comic book writer, media personality and music critic, he made a name for himself in Cleveland.

Pekar is best known for his autobiographical "American Splendor" comic series, which inspired a film adaptation in 2003.

Before Pekar passed away in 2010 at age 70, he finished the script for "Cleveland," a graphic narrative. His collaborator and artist Joseph Remnant pushed forward and finished the illustrations for the book.

"Cleveland" follows a similar style to Pekar's previous novels, but weaves in Cleveland history including the Indians winning the 1948 World Series and the burning of the Cuyahoga River in 1968.

The graphic novel is finally being released this week, and Big Dog Theater in Coventry Village is celebrating the release with a launch party Tuesday evening. Remnant and Pekar's wife Joyce will be present at the big night, along with the publisher and editor of the book. The event will include a reception followed by a panel discussion with a brief Q&A session from audience members.

Admission to the event is free, and copies of "Cleveland" will be available to take home for $21.95.

"Cleveland" launch party:
Tuesday, May 1 from 7-9 p.m.


Big Dog Theater is located at 2781 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106