DC Comics has listed 30 Essential Graphic Novels on their website. But based on the list and the explanation that these are the “best-selling titles that you must read,” this sounds more like a popularity contest mixed in with some quality measurements. I certainly agree with about 60% of this list. Watchmen. Dark Knight. Y the Last Man. Fables. V for Vendetta. League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Sure, those are all super solid picks, as well as some of the straight superhero fare like Identity Crisis and JLA.
But how on Earth (or any one of countless Earths…) can they seriously justify saying any of the following books are part of the 30 MUST-READ books for comic fans old and new alike:
Superman/Batman: Public Enemies – I know this was a huge seller, but the storyline was so godawful it was beyond laughable.
- Batman: Arkham Asylum – Oh, it’s by Grant Morrison, so it has to be on the list. Bull. It’s a gorgeous book to be sure. Beautiful Dave McKean painted art. But come on, the convulted storyline was average at best.
- Batman: The Dark Knight Strikes Again – Uh, the original series is one of the greatest comic stories of all time. This sequel was one of the worst sequels of all-time. Miller’s art deteriorated into a caricature of itself. And that story? What the hell was it all about? I can quote you pages of dialogue from the original series and point out 97 different amazingly awesome moments. This sequel? I can’t even remember one single thing that happened.
Hellblazer: Original Sins – I loved this Hellblazer series. But I didn’t realize how boring and mundane Jamie Delano’s run was until Garth Ennis came onboard. Granted, this isn’t a horrible pick for the list, since it really introduces Constantine as a character and sets up the series, but going with Ennis’ “Dangerous Habits” graphic novel would be a far better choice. It’s also easily accessible and a really well done tale.
There are a couple other books on here I haven’t had a chance to read, but I may pick up just based on their recommendation (and then I’ll curse the list out even more). I’m thinking about Superman: Birthright and Green Lantern: Rebirth in particular.
6 Comments
I’m seriously, Seriously behind on my comics. Since I can’t seem to keep up each month with my favorites, novels might be the way to go.
Just wanted to pop in and say welcome to entrecard.
CG – Totally. I far prefer graphic novels for ease of use and no waiting month to month or keeping up, etc. Cost is about the same. Cheaper actually, if you just take them out of your local library!
mikster – Thanks!
I never read Dark Knight Strikes Back for the very reason that everyone and their dog has told me that it’s a horrible sequel to such a good comic.
I have no clue how some of these titles made it onto the list.
Mike – Yeah it’s true, DKSB is awful. The first issue is actually okay (far from great, but readable) but then the entire storyline gets super dumb and complicated, and his art style goes way downhill fast.
actually, i just finished up the Green Lantern Rebirth, and I would argue that it, indeed, should be on the list. i loved every page of it.
just my two cents.
jeff.