Mary M. Ganim

Mary Ganim, born on Valentine’s Day in 1951 in Binghamton, New York, is an accomplished author and cartoonist best known for her graphic novel series BASTYMANIA. The daughter of Lebanese and Polish parents, Mary discovered her love for drawing at the age of four, creating her first character, Tipoly, a little girl with superpowers. Early works like Tipoly and the Boy with the Golden Diaper (1955) and The Adventures of the Fatty Brothers (1958–1964) showcased her storytelling talent and imaginative flair. In high school, she explored theater, writing and directing multiple original plays and a full musical, an experience that deepened her creative perspective and versatility.

Mary holds a degree in Art from Binghamton University and a certificate in Art Therapy from The New School. During her college years, she broke ground as the only female member of The Berserkers Social Club, a campus cartoonist group. Her professional journey spans work as a production secretary for an independent film company in New York City, teaching comics, and active involvement in the Putnam Arts Association. Throughout, Mary’s work has been driven by a lifelong commitment to artistic expression, creative storytelling, and connecting with audiences across generations.

As the author of BASTYMANIA, a graphic novel over 45 years in the making, Mary continues to expand the series, building on decades of imaginative storytelling. She resides in Hopewell Junction, New York, with her husband, Bob, where she continues to write, draw, and create with the same passion that inspired her as a child. Mary’s career is a testament to the idea that creativity and persistence know no age limits, and that great stories are worth the time they take to tell.

• Certificate - New School for Social Research

• Binghamton University - BA

• The Berserkers Social Club