Oddly enough, in my family comic books were considered doomsday devices (or at least bad literature) so I never received any as Christmas or birthday gifts. I did get a chemistry set once, though. I was so disappointed that I never figured out how to blow up anything.

Hmm. Come to think of it, I guess comic books are more dangerous. I’m still hooked on them.

↓ Transcript
PANEL 1
SCENE: A man and a woman are sitting on the grass. The man looks troubled. The woman reaches out in concern and touches his arm.

MAN: Gosh! The kids want a Lil’ Genius Lab Kit, but we’re still recovering from their last nuclear meltdown!

WOMAN: Let’s give them comics instead!

PANEL 2
SCENE: The man is standing, facing away and looking towards the background. The woman remains sitting.

MAN: Perfect! Comics are cheaper than doomsday devices! And they’re almost as educational!

WOMAN: Heavens, yes! I learned a lot from those "adult" comics you hid under the bed!

CAPTION: Comics: Smart reading for junior delinquents of all ages!