During his campaign, then-Senator Obama revealed his childhood interest in comic books – and illustrators quickly took note. In June 2009, the Chicago-based Devil's Due Publishing Co. launched "Barack the Barbarian," a four-book comic series which features the 44th president as a Conan-the-Barbarian-like hero. Later editions of the comic also include a fur-draped character who bears an uncanny resemblance to Sarah Palin, complete with glasses, chainmail bikini and sword. Obama has also been featured in other comics, including a January 2009 edition of Marvel Comics' <i>Amazing Spider-Man</i>, in which the two share a fist-bump.

Japanese sushi chef Ken Kawasumi created an Obama-themed sushi roll with shrimp for his skin, black sesame for his hair and fish paste for his teeth. When sliced, the sushi shows the face of the President. (Handout)