Barnaby (comics)

Barnaby is a whimsical comic strip created by Crockett Johnson, which ran from 1942 to 1952. It centers on Barnaby Baxter, a young boy, and his fairy godfather, Mr. O'Malley.

Mr. O'Malley, a pint-sized, cigar-chomping, bumbling, but well-intentioned fairy godfather, often attempts to use his magic to help Barnaby, but his spells frequently go awry, leading to humorous and often satirical situations. While he possesses magical abilities, O'Malley relies more on his bluster and confidence, often presenting himself as a powerful and important figure despite his ineptitude.

The strip was known for its sophisticated humor, intelligent writing, and gentle satire. It addressed topical issues of the time, often from a child's perspective, and subtly commented on social and political matters. Barnaby's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Baxter, represent a typical middle-class American family.

Other recurring characters include Gus the Ghost, a shy and apologetic spirit; Gorgon, a talking dog who is a member of the Elves, Leprechauns, Gnomes, and Little Men’s Chowder and Marching Society, Local 369; and McSnoyd, a neighborhood bully.

Barnaby stood out from other comic strips of its era due to its focus on character development, witty dialogue, and its avoidance of overly simplistic or predictable storylines. Although not a massive commercial success during its original run, Barnaby has garnered a devoted following over the years and is considered a classic of the comic strip medium. It has been praised for its innovative use of language and its enduring appeal to both children and adults.