60th Anniversary: 10 Iconic Peanuts Comics You Must Read

For generations, the iconic Peanuts comic strip has cemented its status as a beloved classic. This timeless series, created by Charles M. Schulz, is renowned for its rich character development, meaningful relationships, and, of course, impeccable humor. Characters like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, and Linus have enchanted readers since their inception, with their relatable quirks and genuine interactions continuing to resonate today.

Since its initial syndication, the Peanuts franchise has expanded into various media, including animated films, holiday specials, and even Broadway productions. However, the original comic strip remains the cornerstone of a phenomenon that has captivated audiences for decades. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of November 1964’s comic strip collection, it’s an ideal moment to reflect on the impact and legacy of these strips. Here, we present ten essential Peanuts comics from that significant month!

10. Charlie Brown Ensures Snoopy Has a Gourmet Experience

Peanuts – November 3, 1964

Charlie Brown bringing Snoopy a bowl of food.

In this comic, Charlie Brown tenderly sets a bowl of dog food at Snoopy’s feet but later realizes he forgot the essential dressings. With a lighthearted return, he offers Roquefort and Thousand Island dressings to enhance Snoopy’s meal. This delightful moment emphasizes Snoopy’s self-perception as more human than canine and showcases Charlie Brown’s dedication to ensuring his friend enjoys a satisfying meal.

9. Snoopy’s Hilariously Absurd Alarm Clock

Peanuts – November 5, 1964

Snoopy oversleeping after his sundial didn't work as an alarm clock.

Snoopy’s panic ensues atop his doghouse when he realizes he overslept. To his dismay, he discovers his ‘alarm clock’ is merely a sundial—an impractical choice, leading to a ridiculous realization. This comic hilariously underscores Snoopy’s need for a real alarm clock, making light of the laughable absurdity of relying on a sundial for timekeeping.

8. Linus Feels Guilty After Sunday School

Peanuts – November 6, 1964

Linus telling Charlie Brown that the bible makes him feel guilty.

During a Sunday stroll, Charlie Brown encounters Linus, who shares his experience at Church School studying the letters of the apostle Paul. Linus humorously confesses that the content makes him feel guilty, humorously comparing it to reading someone else’s private correspondence.

7. Snoopy’s Close Call with a Bird

Peanuts – November 10, 1964

Snoopy dodging a bird that nearly flew right into him.

Snoopy’s tranquil afternoon is abruptly interrupted when a bird nearly collides with him. This humorous exchange is not just a comical moment; it foreshadows Snoopy’s future friendships with birds, such as Woodstock, who was introduced just two years later.

6. Peanuts Reveals Snoopy’s Inner Turmoil

Peanuts – November 13, 1964

Snoopy admitting he's not as relaxed as he seems.

In a surprising twist, Snoopy admits to Shermy that he feels anything but relaxed inside, declaring, “on the inside I’m a raging turmoil!”This revelation provides a deeper understanding of Snoopy’s complex character and hints at his past abandonment by Lila, his original owner.

5. Schroeder Enlists Snoopy in Celebrating Beethoven

Peanuts – November 14, 1964

Sally seeing Schroeder and Snoopy holding up signs about Beethoven's birthday.

In this panel, Sally encounters Schroeder, who excitedly counts down to Beethoven’s birthday, his musical hero. Snoopy joins in, holding a sign reflecting Schroeder’s enthusiasm. This comic not only showcases their friendship but also highlights the joy of shared interests within the Peanuts gang.

4. Snoopy’s Creative Leaf Pile Technique

Peanuts – November 18, 1964

Snoopy blowing on a leaf to make a pile of leaves.

In this whimsical comic, Snoopy finds joy in a simple fall day, ingeniously blowing a leaf into his growing pile. This charming scene echoes a beloved moment from the animated special “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,”further enhancing the nostalgia associated with the Peanuts universe.

3. Snoopy Takes Beethoven Picketing Up a Notch

Peanuts – November 24, 1964

Snoopy holding up a sign reminding everyone of Beethoven's birthday.

Snoopy, passionate about Schroeder’s cause, escalates the Beethoven birthday campaign by holding a sign that reads, “You shouldn’t have to be reminded of this every year!” This comic perfectly captures Snoopy’s devotion and adds a humorous twist to town celebrations.

2. Snoopy Masters Sarcasm Without Speaking

Peanuts – November 27, 1964

Snoopy sarcastically jumping for joy at the sight of Charlie Brown.

When Charlie Brown returns home, he is met with Snoopy’s cool indifference. After Charlie expresses his frustration that other dogs show excitement, Snoopy sarcastically jumps for joy in an exaggerated fashion. This interaction cleverly illustrates Snoopy’s sense of humor and unique bond with Charlie Brown.

1. Lucy Faces Karmic Justice with a Football

Peanuts – November 30, 1964

Lucy being unable to kick a football in Peanuts.

Lucy hilariously struggles to punt a football, despite executing the motion correctly. Her confusion heightens the comedy, as this predicament humorously reflects her previous trickery on Charlie Brown, who was often the victim of her deceptive football pulls. Many fans find this comic not just funny, but a clever commentary on cosmic justice.

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