Universally beloved cartoonist Guy Delisle showcases a career-spanning collection of his work with a sly sense of humor and warm characterization. Before Delisle became an international superstar with his globe-hopping travelogues, he was an animator experimenting with the comics form. Always aware of the elasticity of the human form and honing his keen observer’s eye, young Delisle created hilarious set pieces.

World Record Holders ranges from wistful childhood nostalgia to chagrined post-fame encounters, touching on formally ambitious visual puns and gut-busting what-ifs. Delisle again and again shows how life is both exhilarating and embarrassing. Delisle visits an exhibition of his work in another country and is confronted by an angry spouse who blames him for destroying her marriage. A juvenile game of Bows and Arrows turns menacing as arrows shot straight up in the air turn into barely visible missiles of death. A coded message from space creates different reactions from different people—debates, dance festivals, gallery shows. Translated by Helge Dascher.

Contents [2022 English edition]
• The First Panel -- Lapin 33, 2002
• Single File -- Le cri du Margouillat no. 22, 1997
• Ka-klick -- Le cri du Margouillat no. 28, 2000
• The Floating Dog's Tale -- Lapin 9, 1995
• The Bold and the Beautiful -- Comment ne rien faire, 2007
• A . . . -- Lapin 16, 1997
• Ha Ha! Very Creative -- Lapin 18, 1998
• Youri & Youri -- Lapin 14, 1997
• Sweet Revenge -- Lapin 17, 1997
• My Best Tie -- Lapin 11, 1996
• Solid Ground -- Lapin 19, 1998
• World Record Holders -- Lapin 13, 1996
• The Sleeping Giant -- Lapin 12, 1996
• Summer Vacation -- Spoutnik 1, 1998
• The Tragic Destiny of the Toy Farm Animals -- Spoutnik 2, 2000
• Some Days -- Comment ne rien faire, 2007
• Airported -- Comix 2000, 2000
• Spaghetti -- Spoutnik 5, 2004
• Bows and Prostations -- Lapin 34, 2004
• How to Do Nothing -- Lapin 22, 1998
• Opening Night -- Papier, 2014
• The Last Panel -- Lapin 29, 2001