Susie Derkins: The Underrated Genius of Calvin and Hobbes

For 31 years, Bill Watterson’s Calvin and Hobbes has captivated readers with its whimsical adventures and insightful commentary on childhood. While Calvin’s antics often steal the show, there’s another character who deserves more recognition: Susie Derkins, Calvin’s intelligent and well-adjusted foil. She represents everything Calvin isn’t, and her quiet brilliance is a constant source of amusement (and occasional frustration) for the titular tiger.

Susie: The Perfect Counterpoint

31 Years Later, the Smartest 'Calvin and Hobbes' Character Still Doesn't Get the Recognition They Deserve — Susie stands calmly while Calvin creates chaos in the background

Susie’s role in Calvin and Hobbes is primarily to serve as a contrast to Calvin’s chaotic nature. She embodies order, intelligence, and responsibility – qualities that are often lacking in Calvin’s world. This dynamic creates a constant source of humor, as Susie’s calm demeanor clashes with Calvin’s wild imagination and mischievous behavior.

The idea of Calvin growing up to marry Susie is a recurring theme in Calvin and Hobbes fan fiction. One notable example is Tom Heyerman’s “Hobbes and Bacon,” which explores this possibility. While it’s understandable why some fans might envision this pairing, given that Susie is Calvin’s only consistent peer throughout the strip’s original run, it also highlights the inherent conflict between their personalities.

A Glimpse into Susie’s World

Calvin-and-Hobbes-Dec-4-1985 — The first mention of Susie Derkins’ name in a 1985 strip

Susie’s appearances in Calvin and Hobbes are often brief, but they always leave an impression. She rarely takes center stage, unlike Calvin’s parents who frequently serve as targets for his pranks. The closest she comes to a solo arc is arguably the 1986 strip where she finds the missing Hobbes, who had been dragged away by a stray dog.

One of Susie’s most memorable moments is from October 24, 1993, when she tells Calvin, “I love my school books. Just think! Pretty soon we’ll have read all of this!” This quote has become a beloved mantra for book lovers everywhere.

The Mystery of Susie’s Brilliance

Calvin-and-Hobbes-May-29-1986 — Susie and Calvin waiting for the bus

One question that often arises is how Susie developed such impressive study habits. The strip offers no definitive answers, leaving readers to speculate about her upbringing and influences. Are both of her parents college professors? It’s a mystery that adds another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating character.

Susie: A Study Guide in Disguise

Calvin-and-Hobbes-Oct-4-1993 — Susie’s famous quote about loving school books

Despite her limited screen time, Susie Derkins is arguably one of the most intelligent characters in fiction. Her unwavering love for learning and her calm demeanor make her a role model for children and adults alike. She represents the power of knowledge and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Susie’s character deserves more recognition within the Calvin and Hobbes universe. She is a testament to the fact that intelligence and kindness can coexist, even in the most chaotic of worlds. So next time you revisit this beloved comic strip, take a moment to appreciate the quiet brilliance of Susie Derkins.