Everyone loves a good comic! Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual reader, there is something for everyone out there. But with thousands of titles to choose from, what are the best comics ever created? Read on for the top 9 must-read comics before you die!
History of Comic Books
Comic books have been around for nearly a century, and their history is full of ups and downs. The earliest comics were simple newspaper strips, but over time they evolved into their distinct art form. The Golden Age of Comics saw the birth of some of the most iconic characters of all time, including Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. But the industry soon fell on hard times, and by the end of the 20th century, it was in danger of dying out entirely. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw a renaissance in comics, thanks in part to the success of movies like Spider-Man and X-Men. Today, there are more comic books than ever before, and they’re enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Introduction to the Comic Book Genre
The comic book genre has been around for centuries, with the first recorded instance of a comic book being created in 17th-century China. Since then, comics have evolved and changed to become one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world. Comics are usually serialized, meaning they are released in installments over time. This can be monthly, weekly, or even daily. They are often collected into trade paperback or hardcover volumes once they have finished their run.
If you are new to the world of comics or just looking for some good recommendations, this list is for you!
9 Best Comics You Must Read Before You Die
This list is not exhaustive, but it covers the essential titles that any serious comic book reader should make a point to read. Many of these are considered classics and have stood the test of time. Others are more recent releases that have made a significant impact on the industry.
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
The story is set in a near-future version of Gotham City where Bruce Wayne has retired from being Batman. Its dark, gritty, and realistic take on the caped crusader influenced many subsequent comics and movies.
Watchmen
This classic graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons is set in an alternate history where costumed vigilantes are outlawed. When one of the heroes is murdered, the remaining members must uncover the truth behind his death. It’s a must-read for any fan of comics.
V for Vendetta
If you’re looking for a truly iconic comic book, then you can’t go wrong with V for Vendetta. First published in the 1980s, this dystopian tale follows the story of V, an anarchist freedom fighter who wages a one-man war against the oppressive British government.
Maus
Maus is a graphic novel written by Art Spiegelman. The story follows Artie, a Jewish Holocaust survivor, as he tells his son about his experiences during World War II. Characters are drawn as animals, with the Jews being represented as mice and the Nazis as cats.
Sandman
In Neil Gaiman’s Sandman, the titular character is a being who personifies dreams. The story follows him as he tries to regain his lost power and reconnect with humanity. The Sandman is widely considered to be one of the best comics of all time, and it’s easy to see why.
X-Men: Days of Future Past
The story takes place in two different periods, with the present-day X-Men teaming up with their past selves to prevent a dark future where Sentinels rule the world. The story is full of action, drama, and emotion, and is truly a classic in the comic medium.
Superman: Red Son
The series posits an alternate history where the Soviet Union has raised Superman as their own to fight for them during the Cold War instead of the United States. Red Son has been mostly positive and the series is considered one of the best Elseworlds stories ever told.
The Killing Joke
The Joker’s origin is shrouded in mystery, and The Killing Joke provides one possible version of events. According to the story, the Joker was once a normal man who had a wife and child. One fateful day, he lost his job and was unable to provide for his family. Fortunately, Batman was able to track down the Joker and rescue Gordon before he could be driven insane. In the end, the Joker was left laughing uncontrollably at his own failed experiment, reaffirming his belief that life is ultimately meaningless.
The Walking Dead
The Walking Dead is a post-apocalyptic horror comic book series created by Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore. It focuses on Rick Grimes, a small-town sheriff’s deputy who is shot in the line of duty and wakes up from a coma to find the world has been overrun by zombies. The Walking Dead has been praised for its realistic portrayal of zombies and human behavior, as well as its emotional storytelling.