Cover: Bill MacLean

Four Color #556

May 1954 · Dell · 0.10 USD

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In "Penny in a Sidewalk Grate," a 1954 Four Color comic, siblings Jeannie and Johnnie attempt to dodge Mrs. McMeany’s endless errands—only to find themselves stranded when a dropped penny vanishes into a sidewalk grate. Written and illustrated by Bill MacLean, this quiet, character-driven tale captures the small-scale drama of childhood mischief and unintended consequences, all rendered in the crisp, expressive style that defined his work. The cover by Bill MacLean perfectly captures the moment’s tension, with the kids frozen in dismay over the missing coin.

Contains 7 stories

Penny in a Sidewalk Grate

1 pp · Children

Goober

Guardsmen

12 pp · Children

GooberJeannieJohnnie

Goober Meets a Funny Man

6 pp · Children

GooberJeannieJohnnie

In this whimsical 1954 tale from Four Color #556, young Jo sets off on a simple errand to fetch a dozen eggs, only to find his quiet trip turned into a playful adventure when he’s joined by two mischievous twins. The trio’s journey takes a surprising turn when they encounter Floppem, the clown, whose antics with the eggs send their day spinning in unexpected directions.

Food for Thought

6 pp · Children

GooberJeannieJohnnie

Jeannie and Johnnie are determined to dodge Mrs. McMeany’s endless errands—especially when the only reward is stale ginger cookies. Their clever plan to stay out of her way goes awry, leaving them unaware of the surprise party she’s thrown for the neighborhood kids.

Measles Makes a Friend for Life

8 pp · Animal

Measles (dog)GooberJeannieJohnnie

Measles, tied up while the kids go fishing, breaks free and flees from the dog-catcher—only to end up at the very spot where the children are fishing. When the dog-catcher tumbles into the water, Measles must decide whether to help or run.

The Baby-Sitter

1 pp · Children

GooberJeannieJohnnie

Water for the Birds

1 pp · Children

GooberJeannieJohnnie