You find the most interesting people at comic cons. Guess who we met at Grand Rapids Comic Con? None other than Brent Clark Rogers, author of the Brent Clark Rogers Guide to the DC Universe. We heard him speak about women in the comic book world - and knew we'd need to share his book. Here's what he had to say...

Please tell us about your book, Brent Clark Rogers Guide to the DC Universe...
My book, The Brent Clark Rogers Guide to the DC Universe, is my life's work. It lists the first appearances of over 20,000 characters, no matter how obscure, from the pages of DC Comics from 1935 to 2005. My next edition will be updated to the present.

What is the history of women in the comic book world?
There have always been, and always will be strong female characters in comics - hundreds, in fact. One of the reasons for my book is to make it easy for fans as well as creators to find them.

How do you see this history changing in the last few - and next few - years?
With the ease of finding them, fans can let the creators know what obscure characters that they'd like to see more of. Why create new characters, when there are literally thousands already out there to be used, whether it be in comics, movies, tv shows, or video games?

What is the impact of women's portrayal in comics and pop culture on women in media today?
There has always been female readership as well as female creators. Due to social media, they now have more of a voice and public presence than ever before. That will continue to grow.

What got you interested in comics?
My Dad and brother were both comic readers. Always comics around the house. Dad started buying me my own comics in 1973, when I was four, to teach me how to read. I haven't missed any DCU comics since.

What's up next for you?
I'm hard at work on my 7th edition, which should debut at GRCC, next November.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I definitely enjoy what I do! I started writing my Guide March 8th, 1984, and I have had blast the entire time. I love sharing my knowledge with others.

All photos courtesy Brent Clark Rogers