278 – Mysta of the Moon

Mysta of the Moon in Planet Comics #35, January 1945
Mysta of the Moon in Planet Comics #35, January 1945

Ok, it’s time to take a break from the heavy burden of thinking about World War 2 and let comic books do something they do really well: Pure unadulterated escapism. While DC Comics seem to be squarely aimed at children and youth, Fiction House published pulpy stories with curvy women in skimpy outfits focusing on fantastic storylines in space or in the jungle. Often the women were being grabbed, bound, and threatened by grotesque creatures.

Mysta of the Moon debuted in Planet Comics #35 (January 1945) illustrated by Joe Doolin and written by “Ross Gallun” (which research claims is very likely a pseudonym for an unknown writer). The story/premise is straightforward: It’s the future and the god of war, Mars, has almost wiped out civilization. A scientist built a laboratory on the Moon and took with him two orphans: a girl and a boy, raising them with all the culture and knowledge of the human race. Mars catches up with them on the Moon and possesses the young boy, convincg him to murder their scientist father figure. The girl, Mysta, figures out what is happening and defeats Mars. She and her robot companion then leave the Moon in a rocket.