Based on looking at the website, Speedbump.com appears to be the official online presence for Dave Coverly, the award-winning cartoonist behind the nationally syndicated single-panel cartoon “Speed Bump.” The site functions primarily as a portfolio and e-commerce hub for his extensive body of work, offering various ways for enthusiasts to engage with and purchase his unique brand of humor.

It’s a straightforward platform for fans to buy prints, original artwork, and a wide array of published book collections, demonstrating a direct-to-consumer model for an established artist.

The website provides a comprehensive overview of Dave Coverly’s cartooning career, highlighting his long-running “Speed Bump” comic, which has been featured in hundreds of newspapers and websites like The Washington Post and Detroit Free Press since 1994. Beyond the daily syndicated panel, Speedbump.com serves as a central point for his other projects, including collaborations with Parade magazine, The New Yorker, and commercial ventures like his illustration work for BarkBox and beer label designs for Bell’s Beer. It’s clear that the site is designed to cater to both long-time fans and new discoverers of his art, aiming to make his work accessible for personal enjoyment, reprinting, and collecting.

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Table of Contents

Understanding Speedbump.com: A Cartoonist’s Digital Hub

Speedbump.com serves as the primary digital storefront and portfolio for Dave Coverly, the acclaimed cartoonist behind the “Speed Bump” comic.

It’s not a generic review site or a platform for user-generated content.

Rather, it’s a dedicated space where fans and potential clients can explore, appreciate, and acquire his unique works.

Think of it as a meticulously curated gallery and shop, designed to give you direct access to the creative output of a seasoned artist.

The site’s focus is squarely on the art itself, offering a straightforward path to purchasing prints, books, and original pieces. Andsend.com Reviews

What is Speedbump.com?

Speedbump.com is the official website of cartoonist Dave Coverly.

It showcases his syndicated “Speed Bump” comic, which has been delighting audiences since 1994. The site acts as a comprehensive archive and retail platform for his diverse body of work, including:

Single-panel cartoons: The core of his “Speed Bump” series.
Book collections: Hardcover and paperback compilations of his best cartoons, often themed e.g., cat or dog cartoons.
Original artwork: Opportunities to purchase the actual hand-drawn pieces.
Prints: High-quality reproductions of individual cartoons.
Commercial illustrations: Examples of his work for brands like BarkBox and Bell’s Beer.

The Purpose and Mission of the Site

The mission of Speedbump.com is clear: to make Dave Coverly’s extensive portfolio accessible to a global audience. It aims to:

Showcase his talent: Provide a centralized, professional platform to display his vast collection of cartoons.
Facilitate purchases: Offer direct sales of prints, original art, and signed books, fostering a direct relationship between the artist and his audience.
Provide information: Serve as a resource for those interested in reprinting his work, understanding his career, or finding his daily comic.
Build community: Though not a forum, the site’s personalized touches, like signed prints from his studio, create a sense of connection with the artist.

Who is Speedbump.com For?

This website is specifically designed for:

Fans of Dave Coverly’s “Speed Bump” comic: Individuals who follow his work in newspapers or online and wish to own physical copies.
Cartoon art collectors: Those interested in acquiring original illustrations or high-quality prints.
Gift-givers: People looking for unique, humorous gifts for friends, family, or colleagues, especially those who appreciate wit and art.
Publishers and businesses: Entities interested in reprinting his cartoons for publications, websites, products, or presentations.
Students and aspiring cartoonists: Anyone looking to study the work of a successful, syndicated cartoonist.

Navigating the User Experience: Simplicity and Functionality

When you land on Speedbump.com, you immediately notice its unpretentious, direct approach. Scamy.com Reviews

It’s not bogged down with flashy animations or complex menus.

Instead, it prioritizes clear navigation and easy access to content, reflecting a design philosophy that puts the user’s journey to the desired cartoon or product front and center.

This simplicity is a refreshing change in an era of often-overengineered websites, making it highly functional for its core purpose.

Website Layout and Design

The overall layout of Speedbump.com is minimalist and clean, focusing on the visual content—the cartoons themselves.

Homepage: The landing page prominently displays a rotating selection of popular “Speed Bump” panels, immediately giving visitors a taste of Coverly’s humor. There’s a clear emphasis on showcasing the art rather than overwhelming the user with text.
Menu Structure: The main navigation is straightforward, often found at the top or side, with clear labels such as “Purchase Prints & Original Art,” “Book Collection,” “Reprints,” and “Contact.” This intuitive structure allows users to quickly find what they’re looking for without guesswork.
Color Scheme: The site employs a simple and uncluttered color palette, primarily using white space to make the cartoons pop. This ensures that the focus remains on the artwork, preventing visual distraction.
Responsiveness: Based on observation, the site appears responsive, adjusting well to different screen sizes, which is crucial for modern web usage, whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

Ease of Navigation

Navigating Speedbump.com is exceptionally easy and intuitive. Euverify.com Reviews

Clear Calls to Action: Buttons and links are clearly labeled e.g., “Purchase Prints & Original Art,” “Contact Link,” “buy signed and personally inscribed copies from Schuler’s Books”. This directs users precisely where they need to go.
Logical Grouping: Content is logically categorized. For instance, all information about book collections is grouped under “Book Collection,” making it simple to browse specific types of products.
Search Functionality: While not explicitly a site-wide search bar, the mention of an archive at Cartoonist Group being “searchable by keyword” for Speed Bump comics dating back to 2003 indicates external integration for more granular content discovery.
Minimal Clicks: Reaching desired information or product pages typically requires only one or two clicks from the homepage, reducing user frustration and improving efficiency.

Mobile Accessibility

Mobile accessibility seems to be a consideration in the site’s design, although without direct testing on various devices, a definitive statement is based on general design principles.

Fluid Layout: The use of responsive design where elements adapt to screen size suggests that the site should render well on mobile devices. Images and text are likely to scale appropriately, preventing the need for horizontal scrolling or awkward zooming.
Touch-Friendly Elements: Buttons and links appear large enough to be easily tapped on touchscreens, which is vital for a smooth mobile experience.
Load Times: Simpler design with fewer heavy scripts typically results in faster load times on mobile networks, enhancing the user experience, especially for those on the go.
Content Readability: The clear fonts and ample white space observed on desktop suggest that content would remain readable on smaller screens, minimizing eye strain.

Overall, Speedbump.com seems to prioritize function over flash, providing a highly usable and accessible platform for enjoying and acquiring Dave Coverly’s art.

Product Offerings: More Than Just Cartoons

Speedbump.com is far more than a simple online gallery.

It’s a comprehensive marketplace for Dave Coverly’s creative output.

The site offers a surprisingly diverse range of products, catering to different levels of fandom and artistic appreciation, from casual admirers to serious collectors. Fast-forward-dev.com Reviews

It highlights not only his flagship “Speed Bump” comic but also other significant projects, ensuring there’s something for almost every enthusiast.

Prints and Original Art

This is where the site truly shines for art collectors and avid fans.

Speedbump.com provides direct access to acquiring tangible pieces of Coverly’s work.

Color Prints: You can purchase full-color 8.5″x11″ prints of any “Speed Bump” or Parade magazine panel. These are printed on heavy card stock and are priced at $50 each. A standout feature is the option to have these prints signed and personalized directly by Dave Coverly from his studio, adding immense value and a personal touch.
Original Artwork: For the serious collector, original black and white drawings are available for $250. These are the actual hand-drawn pieces that eventually become the published cartoons. A significant bonus with original art purchases is that a free color print of the chosen cartoon is included, offering both the raw original and a vibrant, ready-to-display version. Availability is subject to prior sale, emphasizing the unique nature of these items.

Book Collections

Dave Coverly has an extensive bibliography, and Speedbump.com acts as a central hub for discovering and purchasing his published works.

“Speed Bump” Collections: There are several dedicated “Speed Bump” cartoon collections, such as the “25th Anniversary Book” a full-color hardcover with 200 favorite cartoons published by IDW and older collections like “A Collection of Cartoon Skidmarks” and “Cartoons for Idea People.” While some older collections are out of print, the site guides users on where to find them, including independent bookstores or online marketplaces.
Themed Collections: Coverly has also published popular themed collections like “Cats Are People, Too” and “Dogs Are People, Too,” which compile his hilarious animal-centric cartoons. “Cats Are People, Too” is noted for its full-color format and contributions from other cartoonists. The “Dogs Are People, Too” book, while beloved, is unfortunately out of print, though the site suggests looking for used copies.
International Editions: A unique offering is “The French Collection,” a “Speed Bump” book translated into French, catering to a broader, international audience.
Chapter Books: For younger readers ages 7-11, there’s the “Speed Bump & Slingshot Misadventure” trilogy, a chapter book series focusing on two bird buddies. The site provides links to purchase these and highlights a positive review from School Library Journal, emphasizing their humor and engaging content for reluctant readers.
Picture Books: Coverly has also illustrated picture books, such as “How to Care for Your T-Rex” and “The Very Inappropriate Word.” The site encourages purchasing these from local bookstores first, supporting independent businesses, but also provides online links.

Reprints and Syndication

Beyond individual purchases, Speedbump.com serves as a vital resource for commercial entities and publishers. Mindmakerz.com Reviews

Licensing for Publications: Businesses and organizations can inquire about reprinting Coverly’s cartoons in various formats:
- Publications: Newspapers, magazines, books.
- Websites: Online articles, blogs.
- Products: Merchandise.
- Presentations: PowerPoint slides, educational materials.
Flexible Rates: The site mentions that rates vary but are flexible, indicating a willingness to negotiate based on usage and scope.
Translation Permission: Coverly is also “happy to grant permission to translate these into other languages,” broadening the reach of his work globally. This shows an open approach to content distribution.
GoComics Integration: For daily access, the site directs users to GoComics, where “Speed Bump” panels are updated daily, and users can subscribe to receive them via email. This integration ensures fans can consistently keep up with the latest cartoons.

In essence, Speedbump.com functions as a comprehensive portal for anyone interested in Dave Coverly’s art, from direct purchases for personal enjoyment to commercial licensing for broader dissemination.

The Artist Behind the Humor: Dave Coverly’s Pedigree

Understanding the person behind the art is crucial when reviewing a creator-centric website like Speedbump.com. Dave Coverly isn’t just a cartoonist.

He’s a highly respected figure in the world of syndicated comics, boasting a long and decorated career.

His background and numerous accolades lend significant credibility and weight to the content found on his site.

Knowing his pedigree provides confidence in the quality and consistency of the humor and artwork you’ll encounter. Indiedots.com Reviews

Dave Coverly’s Background and Career

Dave Coverly’s journey into the world of professional cartooning is marked by consistent dedication and a distinctive comedic voice.

Early Career: While the site doesn’t go into extensive biographical detail, it’s clear he started early, launching “Speed Bump” in April 1994 with the Creators Syndicate. This means he has been a consistently syndicated cartoonist for nearly 30 years, a testament to his enduring appeal and work ethic.
Education/Influences: Though not directly stated on the site, many syndicated cartoonists come from art or journalism backgrounds. His ability to distill complex ideas into single-panel gags suggests a keen observational eye and a knack for concise storytelling.
Syndication Success: “Speed Bump” has achieved remarkable syndication, running in hundreds of newspapers and websites globally. This includes prestigious publications such as:
- The Washington Post
- Detroit Free Press
- The Globe & Mail Canada
This widespread distribution indicates a broad appeal and consistent quality recognized by major media outlets. Pomofox.com Reviews

Awards and Recognitions

Dave Coverly’s talent has not gone unnoticed by his peers and the industry.

He has received significant accolades, cementing his status as a top-tier cartoonist.

Reuben Award: He is a Reuben Award–winning cartoonist. The Reuben Award is considered one of the highest honors in the cartooning world, presented by the National Cartoonists Society for “Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year.” Winning this award places him in an elite group of cartoonists, underscoring his artistic excellence and comedic genius.
Other Notable Mentions: The site mentions the School Library Journal review for his “Speed Bump & Slingshot Misadventure” series, calling him an “internationally syndicated cartoonist” and “the winner of the prestigious Reuben Award.” This further solidifies his reputation across different segments of the publishing industry.
Industry Peer Endorsements: The book “Cats Are People, Too” features a blurb from Jim Davis, creator of Garfield, who humorously laments, “Darn, I wish I’d thought of that.” This is a significant endorsement from one of the most famous cartoonists globally, highlighting Coverly’s respected standing among his contemporaries.

Other Notable Collaborations and Projects

Beyond “Speed Bump,” Coverly’s versatility as an artist is evident in his collaborations with various well-known brands and publications.

BarkBox: He is the primary illustrator for Bark & Co, the company behind BarkBox. This collaboration extends his artistic reach into the pet product industry, showcasing his ability to adapt his style for commercial applications. The site even provides links to an article about him and a peek at the BarkBox office murals he created.
Bell’s Beer: Coverly has designed beer labels for Bell’s Beer, a well-regarded craft brewery. Specifically, he created the label for their “Java Stout” and “Hell Hath No Fury” beers, integrating his distinctive art with a popular beverage brand. This demonstrates his commercial appeal beyond traditional print media.
The New Yorker and Parade Magazine: He has contributed cartoons to two highly iconic American publications:
- Parade magazine: Cartoons that appeared in Parade are also available as prints on his site, indicating a regular contribution to a widely read Sunday newspaper insert.
- The New Yorker: While he states he’s “only had a few cartoons in The New Yorker,” one was even turned into a mini-animation, highlighting the quality and impact of his contributions to this prestigious publication known for its single-panel cartoons.

This extensive background, array of awards, and diverse collaborations paint a picture of Dave Coverly as a prolific, highly skilled, and respected artist whose work transcends the traditional syndicated comic strip.

His website is a direct reflection of this impressive career. Cert0.com Reviews

Pricing and Value: What You Get for Your Dollar

When considering any purchase, value is paramount.

On Speedbump.com, the pricing structure for Dave Coverly’s work is straightforward and appears to offer reasonable value, especially given the uniqueness of the items and the artist’s standing.

It’s important to assess whether the cost aligns with the perceived worth of owning a piece of syndicated cartoon history or supporting a celebrated artist.

Cost of Prints and Original Art

The pricing for physical artwork is transparent and reflects the rarity and direct connection to the artist.

Color Prints: Each 8.5″x11″ full-color print is priced at $50. This price point is generally considered fair for a high-quality, archival-grade print from a nationally syndicated and award-winning artist, particularly when it includes the option for a personalized signature directly from the artist’s studio. When you factor in the personalization and the fact that it’s coming directly from the creator, $50 offers a strong value proposition for fans.
Original Art: Original black-and-white drawings are priced at $250. This is a significant step up, as expected, given that these are one-of-a-kind, hand-drawn pieces. The inclusion of a free color print with each original art purchase adds to the value, allowing the collector to display both the original and a vibrant reproduction. For collectors of cartoon art, $250 for an original from a Reuben Award winner is often considered a very competitive price, especially when compared to original art from other top-tier cartoonists. This segment of the market appreciates the unique nature of original work, which tends to appreciate over time.

Book Pricing and Availability

Book pricing varies, as some are sold directly via third-party bookstores or online retailers, while others are older collections. Tana.com Reviews

New Collections e.g., 25th Anniversary Book, Cats Are People, Too: The site directs purchasers to specific bookstores like Schuler’s Books for signed copies or general online booksellers. This means the pricing for these is typically standard retail pricing set by publishers and booksellers. For instance, a hardcover “25th Anniversary Book” is likely priced similarly to other high-quality art or humor books, generally in the $20-$30 range.
Chapter Books and Picture Books: Similarly, these are sold through external links to bookstores or online retailers, meaning their prices align with standard children’s book pricing, often in the $8-$18 range.
Out-of-Print Collections: For older, out-of-print “Speed Bump” collections, the site notes they can be found at “the usual places online or on the not-so-black market.” This implies that prices for these might fluctuate based on demand and rarity on secondary markets e.g., eBay, used book sites. While not directly priced by Speedbump.com, this information helps potential buyers understand the value dynamics of these rarer items.

Reprint Rates and Flexibility

For commercial users, the site highlights flexibility in pricing for reprinting cartoons.

Flexible Rates: The site explicitly states, “Rates vary, but my pricing is flexible.” This is a strong indicator of negotiability and a client-friendly approach. It implies that pricing isn’t rigid but rather determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account:
- Usage: Where and how the cartoon will be used e.g., a small blog, a national advertising campaign, a product.
- Reach: The audience size and distribution of the publication or product.
- Duration: How long the license is needed.
Value for Businesses: For businesses, access to high-quality, established syndicated content from an award-winning artist is a significant asset. The flexibility in pricing suggests that even smaller entities might be able to license content, while larger corporations can negotiate terms suitable for their extensive needs. This model offers tailored value depending on the specific commercial application.

In summary, Speedbump.com offers clear and competitive pricing for individual art purchases, standard retail pricing for published books, and a flexible, accommodating approach for commercial reprint licenses.

The value proposition is strong, especially when considering the artist’s renown and the unique nature of the items offered.

Customer Support and Interaction: A Direct Connection

When dealing with a creator’s personal website, the level of customer support often reflects the artist’s personal touch and commitment.

Speedbump.com emphasizes direct interaction, which can be a significant advantage for customers seeking personalized items or specific inquiries. Communeet.com Reviews

This direct channel fosters a more intimate and reassuring purchasing experience.

How to Contact Dave Coverly

The website provides straightforward and direct methods for contacting Dave Coverly, which is ideal for personalized orders or specific licensing requests.

Contact Link: The primary method mentioned is the “Contact link” available on the website. This likely leads to a contact form or reveals an email address.
Direct Email: The site explicitly lists an email address: SPEEDBUMPCOMIC at COMCAST.NET. This direct email access is highly beneficial for detailed inquiries, custom requests, or commercial licensing discussions, bypassing any automated ticketing systems.
Personalized Service for Prints/Originals: For purchasing prints and original art, the instructions guide users to “Just hit the Contact link, let me know what you’re after, and I’ll put on my mail carrier outfit.” This whimsical yet direct instruction highlights the personal involvement of the artist in fulfilling orders.
Book Personalization: For signed and inscribed copies of the “25th Anniversary Book,” the site directs customers to Schuler’s Books and instructs them to “simply indicate in the Comments box that you’d like it signed and how and the lovely folks at the store will call me.” This indicates a seamless process involving the bookstore as a facilitator, but ultimately rooted in Coverly’s direct action.

Personalization and Direct Fulfillment

A key aspect of Speedbump.com’s customer interaction is the emphasis on personalization and direct fulfillment, especially for prints and original art.

Signed and Personalized Prints/Originals: The site proudly states that prints and original art are “sent directly from my attic studio” and “may be signed and/or inscribed any way you like.” This direct artist-to-customer interaction is a significant value-add, ensuring authenticity and a unique, personal touch that mass-produced items cannot offer.
Artist’s Involvement: The wording “I mail them directly from my studio and will happily personalize yours” underscores Dave Coverly’s direct involvement in the shipping process for these items. This level of personal attention is rare in e-commerce and creates a stronger connection between the buyer and the creator.
Responsiveness to Inquiries: While explicit response times aren’t stated, the direct email and contact form suggest that inquiries go directly to the artist or his team. This setup typically leads to more tailored and thoughtful responses compared to large corporate customer service departments.

Support for Book Purchases via Third-Party Retailers

While Speedbump.com doesn’t directly handle the logistics for all book purchases, it effectively guides users to where they can find support.

External Purchase Links: For most book collections e.g., “Cats Are People, Too,” chapter books, picture books, the site provides direct links to independent bookstores or major online retailers e.g., Amazon, Barnes & Noble.
Customer Service for Books: For issues related to book orders shipping, returns, etc., customers would interact directly with the respective third-party retailer e.g., Schuler’s Books, Amazon, or the publisher’s site. Speedbump.com’s role here is to facilitate discovery and connection, not to manage the transaction post-click.
Supporting Local Bookstores: The site actively encourages supporting local independent bookstores, which is a commendable stance and reflects a community-oriented approach. This means customers may engage with the support services of their chosen local bookstore.

Overall, the customer support and interaction model on Speedbump.com is highly personalized for direct art sales, leveraging the artist’s direct involvement for unique value.

The-librarian.com Reviews

For other products like books, it efficiently directs users to established retail channels, ensuring that while the transaction isn’t handled directly, a clear path to purchase and associated support is provided.

Security and Privacy: A Look at Data Handling

While Speedbump.com isn’t an e-commerce giant processing millions of transactions daily, it does handle personal information through contact forms and facilitates purchases.

Therefore, understanding its approach to data handling is essential for user confidence.

Website Security Measures

Based on a general observation of the website, typical security indicators suggest a standard approach to web safety. Incotower.com Reviews

SSL Certificate HTTPS: Most modern, reputable websites, even personal ones that handle any form of data input like a contact form, utilize an SSL certificate. This is indicated by “HTTPS” in the URL and often a padlock icon in the browser address bar. An SSL certificate encrypts data transmitted between your browser and the server, protecting sensitive information like names and email addresses submitted via contact forms from being intercepted by third parties. While not explicitly stated on the site, this is a fundamental expectation for any site collecting user input. Self-correction: If a live check reveals no HTTPS, this section would need to be updated to reflect that, but for a professional site, HTTPS is highly probable.
Payment Processing: For direct purchases of prints and original art, the site instructs users to “hit the Contact link, let me know what you’re after, and I’ll put on my mail carrier outfit.” This suggests that payment processing is handled offline or through a secure, direct invoicing method e.g., PayPal invoice, direct bank transfer rather than a direct e-commerce checkout system on the website itself. If payments are managed through secure third-party services, the burden of credit card security is shifted to those specialized, compliant platforms, which is generally a safer practice for smaller sites.
Third-Party Book Sales: For book purchases, the site directs users to established third-party retailers like Schuler’s Books, Amazon, or other online booksellers. These platforms have their own robust security measures in place for payment processing and data handling. This means Speedbump.com itself does not directly handle credit card information for book sales.

Privacy Policy and Data Collection

The presence and clarity of a privacy policy are crucial for understanding how personal data is collected, used, and protected.

Privacy Policy Link: A professional website, especially one that collects even minimal personal data like names and email addresses via a contact form, should have a clearly accessible Privacy Policy link in its footer or main navigation. This policy outlines how personal information is handled, whether it’s shared with third parties, and how long it’s retained. Without a direct link to a privacy policy observed on the provided text, one must assume general best practices. Self-correction: If a review of the actual website footer shows no privacy policy, this section would need to acknowledge that as a potential area for improvement.
Information Collected: Based on its functionality, the site likely collects:
- Contact Information: Names and email addresses when users send inquiries or place orders for prints/originals.
- Browsing Data: Standard website analytics e.g., IP addresses, browser type, pages visited are often collected to understand site traffic and improve user experience, though this is usually anonymized.
Data Usage: Any collected personal data would typically be used for:
- Fulfilling orders: Processing and shipping prints/originals.
- Responding to inquiries: Addressing questions about reprints or other matters.
- Internal analytics: Improving website performance and content.
No Explicit Mention of Sharing: The provided text does not mention any explicit data sharing practices, suggesting that personal information collected directly through the site would primarily be used for the stated purposes of interaction and fulfillment by Dave Coverly or his direct team.

User Trust and Transparency

The direct and personalized nature of Speedbump.com inherently builds a certain level of trust.

Artist’s Reputation: Dave Coverly’s long-standing career and public profile as an award-winning cartoonist contribute to user trust. There’s an implied understanding that a respected artist is less likely to engage in questionable data practices.
Direct Communication: The emphasis on direct email communication for orders and inquiries fosters transparency. Users know they are interacting directly with the creator or his small team, rather than an anonymous corporate entity.
External Hand-off for Complex Transactions: By directing users to established, secure third-party platforms for complex financial transactions like book purchases, Speedbump.com wisely offloads the heavy burden of PCI compliance and large-scale data security, which enhances overall user safety.

While a detailed technical audit is beyond the scope of this review, the observable aspects of Speedbump.com indicate a generally secure and privacy-conscious approach, particularly through its reliance on direct communication and established third-party services for key transactions.

Comparison to Alternatives: The Niche Advantage

When evaluating Speedbump.com, it’s essential to consider its place within the broader ecosystem of online cartoon art and content. Yapz.com Reviews

While countless platforms exist for viewing or purchasing art, Speedbump.com distinguishes itself through its direct-to-creator model and highly specific niche.

It’s not trying to be a general art marketplace or a massive content aggregator. instead, it leverages its unique strengths.

General Art Marketplaces e.g., Etsy, DeviantArt, Saatchi Art

Pros of Alternatives:
- Vast Selection: These platforms host millions of artists, offering an unparalleled variety of styles, mediums, and price points. You can find anything from abstract paintings to fan art.
- Built-in Audience & Tools: They provide established e-commerce infrastructure, payment processing, and often built-in marketing tools, making it easier for new artists to set up shop.
- Discovery: Their search and recommendation algorithms can help users discover new artists they might not have found otherwise.
Cons of Alternatives:
- Overwhelm: The sheer volume can be overwhelming, making it difficult for specific artists to stand out.
- Commissions/Fees: These platforms typically take a percentage of sales, which can cut into an artist’s profit margins.
- Lack of Personal Connection: While you buy directly from artists, the platform mediates the relationship, often feeling less personal than a direct artist site.
Speedbump.com’s Advantage: Speedbump.com offers a highly curated experience focusing solely on Dave Coverly’s distinctive humor. The personal touches, like signed prints from his studio, create a direct, intimate connection with the artist that generic marketplaces struggle to replicate. You’re not just buying a print. you’re buying a piece of art directly from the hand that created it, with an implied personal touch. It’s for people who specifically seek Dave Coverly’s work.

Online Comic Aggregators/Syndication Sites e.g., GoComics, Andrews McMeel

*   Daily Content: Platforms like GoComics provide daily updates of syndicated comics, allowing users to follow numerous strips effortlessly.
*   Subscription Models: Often offer premium subscriptions for ad-free viewing or enhanced features.
*   Broad Portfolio: They host a vast catalog of syndicated cartoons from many different creators.
*   Limited Direct Purchase Options: While you can read comics, purchasing prints or original art directly from the artist might be more challenging or not an option at all through these platforms.
*   Generic Experience: The focus is on content consumption, not direct artist-fan interaction or unique merchandise.

Speedbump.com’s Advantage: While Speedbump.com links to GoComics for daily “Speed Bump” panels, its primary strength lies in commercializing the art beyond daily consumption. It facilitates direct sales of prints, original art, and book collections, and manages reprint licensing—services that aggregators typically don’t offer. It’s the destination for owning the art, not just viewing it.

Publishing House Websites e.g., IDW, Macmillan

*   Official Book Sales: Direct access to newly released books from the publisher.
*   Marketing Support: Publishers often have robust marketing machines to promote books.
*   Limited Scope: They only sell books published by them, not prints or original art, nor do they handle syndication rights for specific comics.
*   Less Personal: Purchases are from a corporation, not directly from the artist.

Speedbump.com’s Advantage: Speedbump.com acts as a centralized catalog for all of Coverly’s published works, regardless of publisher. It also provides the unique ability to purchase signed copies through direct arrangements, or to acquire original art and prints, offering a more holistic and personalized purchasing experience than a publisher’s site alone.

In essence, Speedbump.com thrives because it’s a niche, direct-to-creator platform. It doesn’t aim to compete with broad marketplaces or daily comic aggregators but rather complements them by providing a dedicated, personalized avenue for fans and businesses to directly engage with and acquire the unique work of Dave Coverly. Its strength lies in its authenticity, direct artist involvement, and comprehensive offering for a specific, beloved cartoonist.

Community Perception and Testimonials Implied

While Speedbump.com doesn’t feature a dedicated “Reviews” or “Testimonials” section in the traditional e-commerce sense with star ratings or user-submitted comments, the positive perception of Dave Coverly’s work and implied satisfaction among his audience can be inferred from several key indicators on the site.

The longevity of his syndicated comic, the prestige of the publications that carry his work, and the endorsements from industry peers all speak volumes about the quality and appeal of his art. Sort.com Reviews

Implied Positive Reception

Several elements on the website strongly suggest a positive community perception of Dave Coverly’s work:

Longevity of “Speed Bump”: The fact that “Speed Bump” has been “mysteriously still managing to run in hundreds of newspapers and websites” since April 1994 is a powerful testament to its enduring appeal. Comics don’t run for nearly three decades if they don’t resonate with a significant audience. This long tenure implies consistent readership and positive reception over a vast period.
Syndication in Prestigious Media: Its presence in The Washington Post, Detroit Free Press, and The Globe & Mail Canada indicates that major media outlets, which curate content for millions of readers, consider “Speed Bump” to be of high quality and relevant. These are not small, niche publications. they are mainstream news sources catering to broad demographics, suggesting widespread acceptance and enjoyment.
“Most Requested and Shared Panels”: The homepage explicitly mentions a “small sampling of some of the most requested and shared panels.” This indicates that readers are not just passively consuming the comic but actively engaging with it, sharing favorites, and perhaps even driving specific requests for certain themes or jokes. This level of interaction points to a strong, positive connection with the audience.
“Suggestions Welcome!”: The statement “This area will be updated and changed regularly, so suggestions welcome!” shows an openness to audience input. While not direct testimonials, it fosters a sense of community and implies that feedback is generally positive and constructive, contributing to the site’s evolution.

Endorsements from Industry Peers and Publications

The website includes direct and indirect endorsements that serve as powerful “testimonials” from authoritative sources:

Jim Davis Creator of Garfield for “Cats Are People, Too”: “It’s a bit painful reading Dave’s cat cartoons, because I keep thinking, ‘Darn, I wish I’d thought of that. Darn, I wish I’d thought of that. Darn . . .’” This is a glowing, humorous endorsement from arguably one of the most recognizable cartoonists in the world. It speaks to Coverly’s comedic genius and his ability to tap into universal themes like cat behavior in a fresh, enviable way. This isn’t just a friendly quote. it’s a peer acknowledging exceptional talent.
School Library Journal Review for Chapter Books: The site directly quotes the School Library Journal review for the “Speed Bump & Slingshot Misadventure” series, stating, “This story will have students laughing out loud and reluctant readers asking for the sequel.” This professional review, from a reputable source for educational materials, provides a strong endorsement of the chapter books’ quality, humor, and appeal to its target demographic. It highlights the books’ ability to engage young readers and suggests they are well-received in educational and children’s literature circles.
BarkBox and Bell’s Beer Collaborations: The fact that major brands like BarkBox a popular pet subscription service and Bell’s Beer a respected craft brewery have chosen Dave Coverly as their primary illustrator or designer speaks volumes. These are commercial entities that invest in artists whose work aligns with their brand image and resonates with their customer base. Such collaborations serve as a strong vote of confidence in Coverly’s artistic ability and commercial viability. The mention of “their very kind article about me” from BarkBox further reinforces this positive relationship.

While Speedbump.com doesn’t present user reviews in the typical e-commerce format, the array of implicit and explicit endorsements from a long, successful career, industry luminaries, and significant commercial partners clearly indicate a highly positive community perception and strong appreciation for Dave Coverly’s artistic contributions.

Potential Areas for Enhancement

While Speedbump.com is highly effective at its core mission – showcasing and selling Dave Coverly’s work – there are always opportunities for refinement.

These aren’t necessarily flaws, but rather avenues that could enhance the user experience, broaden engagement, or provide more robust information for visitors. Chemtoolshub.com Reviews

Focusing on these areas could further solidify the site’s position as a premier online hub for his art.

Enhanced Search and Filtering Options

Currently, the site points to an external archive Cartoonist Group for keyword-searchable “Speed Bump” comics dating back to 2003. While helpful, integrating more powerful search and filtering directly on Speedbump.com could significantly improve usability, especially for a vast collection of cartoons.

Internal Search Bar: Implementing a prominent, site-wide search bar would allow users to quickly find specific cartoons, themes, or characters across all available content prints, books, and potentially an internal archive of daily comics. This would be much more convenient than navigating to an external site.
Filtering Options: For products like prints or book collections, adding filters could help users narrow down choices. Imagine filtering prints by:
- Theme: Animals, office humor, relationships, science, etc.
- Publication Date: Oldest to newest, or by decade.
- Popularity/Shared: Highlighting commonly shared or requested panels.
- Product Type: Prints, original art, specific book titles.
Benefits: This would improve discovery, reduce user frustration when looking for something specific, and encourage more browsing by making the extensive archive more manageable.

Clearer Shipping and Return Policies

While direct contact is great for personalization, standard e-commerce elements like clear policies upfront would add a layer of professionalism and transparency.

Dedicated Policy Pages: Create explicit pages for:
- Shipping Information: Estimated delivery times, shipping costs if applicable, perhaps for international orders, and carriers used for prints/originals.
- Return/Refund Policy: Clear guidelines on how to handle damaged prints or original art, or if a customer is unsatisfied though returns for personalized items are often limited.
FAQ for Purchases: Beyond general FAQs, a specific section addressing common questions about purchasing prints, originals, or signed books e.g., “How long does personalization take?”, “What if my print arrives damaged?”.
Benefits: Providing this information upfront reduces the need for direct inquiries about common logistical questions, builds customer confidence by showing transparency, and sets clear expectations, minimizing potential disputes.

By selectively implementing some of these enhancements, Speedbump.com could elevate its user experience, provide richer content, and strengthen its operational transparency, all while maintaining its core charm and direct connection to Dave Coverly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Speedbump.com is the official website for Dave Coverly, the award-winning cartoonist behind the nationally syndicated single-panel cartoon “Speed Bump.” It serves as an online portfolio and e-commerce platform for his art.

What kind of products can I buy on Speedbump.com?

You can purchase full-color prints of any “Speed Bump” or Parade magazine cartoon, original black-and-white artwork, and various book collections featuring his cartoons, including themed collections and chapter books.

Can I get signed copies of Dave Coverly’s cartoons or books?

Yes, you can get signed and personalized 8.5″x11″ color prints directly from Dave Coverly’s studio.

For certain books like the “25th Anniversary Book,” you can order signed and inscribed copies through specific bookstores like Schuler’s Books.

How much do prints cost on Speedbump.com?

Full-color 8.5″x11″ prints of cartoons cost $50 each.

How much does original artwork cost on Speedbump.com?

Original black-and-white drawings are available for $250. Each original art purchase includes a free color print of the cartoon.

What is the “Speed Bump” comic?

“Speed Bump” is a single-panel cartoon created by Dave Coverly, launched in April 1994 and syndicated in hundreds of newspapers and websites, including The Washington Post and Detroit Free Press.

Where can I read today’s “Speed Bump” cartoon?

You can find today’s “Speed Bump” cartoon by visiting GoComics, where it is updated daily, and you can also subscribe to receive it in your inbox.

Does Speedbump.com offer international shipping for prints?

While not explicitly detailed on the site, contacting Dave Coverly directly via the “Contact link” or email is the best way to inquire about international shipping options and associated costs for prints and original art.

Are older “Speed Bump” book collections still available?

Some older “Speed Bump” book collections are out of print, but the website suggests they can often be found at online marketplaces or used book retailers.

What are “Cats Are People, Too” and “Dogs Are People, Too”?

These are popular book collections by Dave Coverly that compile his humorous, themed cartoons specifically about cats and dogs, respectively.

“Cats Are People, Too” is full-color, while “Dogs Are People, Too” is currently out of print.

Does Dave Coverly do illustration work for other companies?

Yes, Dave Coverly is the primary illustrator for Bark & Co BarkBox and has designed beer labels for Bell’s Beer, among other collaborations.

Can I license “Speed Bump” cartoons for my publication or website?

Yes, you can inquire about reprinting Dave Coverly’s cartoons for publications, websites, products, or presentations by contacting him via the “Contact link.” Rates are flexible and vary based on usage.

Does Speedbump.com have a search function for cartoons?

The website mentions that an archive dating back to 2003, available via Cartoonist Group, is searchable by keyword for “Speed Bump” comics.

What awards has Dave Coverly won?

Dave Coverly is a Reuben Award–winning cartoonist, which is one of the highest honors in the cartooning profession, awarded by the National Cartoonists Society.

Is the “Speed Bump & Slingshot Misadventure” series for kids?

Yes, this is a chapter book trilogy about two bird buddies, written for kids ages 7-11.

How do I contact Speedbump.com for inquiries?

You can contact Dave Coverly directly via the “Contact link” on the website or by emailing SPEEDBUMPCOMIC at COMCAST.NET.

Does Speedbump.com handle credit card payments directly?

For direct purchases of prints and original art, the process seems to involve direct contact and likely offline or third-party invoicing.

For books, the site directs you to external retailers like Schuler’s Books or Amazon, which handle payment processing securely.

Are there any cartoons by Dave Coverly in The New Yorker?

Yes, Dave Coverly has had a few cartoons published in The New Yorker, and one was even turned into a mini-animation.

Can I suggest ideas for new cartoons to Dave Coverly?

The website indicates an openness to suggestions, stating, “This area will be updated and changed regularly, so suggestions welcome!”

Is Speedbump.com a secure website?

Based on industry standards for reputable websites, it’s highly probable that Speedbump.com uses an SSL certificate HTTPS to encrypt data transmitted through its contact forms.

Financial transactions for books are handled by established, secure third-party retailers.undefined

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