There are several opinions about how to read the Batman comic universe ranging from chronologically, backwards, separating story arcs, etc. However, there is no right way to dive into Batman. Whether you start from the beginning, the end, or just somewhere random in the middle, Batman comics never cease to entertain. That being said, it is always nice to have a few pointers on how to dive in to avoid being swallowed by the overwhelming amount of content, so I've narrowed it down to my favorite three:
1. Batman: Year One, Author: Frank Miller, Illustrator: David Mazzucchelli
Well known as one of the best places to start in the Batman universe, Batman: Year One introduces Batman at the age of 25 after twelve years of training vigorously abroad in science, martial arts, and man-hunting along with the beginning of Jim Gordon's career in the Gotham City Police Department. This story arc brings readers right back to the beginning and is often still referred to as the original cannon for the Batman universe.
2. The Killing Joke:
As a fan favorite, the Joker has had his fair share of encounters with Batman. However, none seem to top this story written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland. This dynamic duo create one of the most heart-wrenching and psychologically entertaining story arcs in the Batman universe, and to this day is regarded as a legend among the fans.
3. Death of the Family
Moore and Bolland finally have some competition when it comes to depicting the relationship between Batman and the Joker after the amazing work done by author Scott Snyder and illustrator Greg Capullo. After escaping from Arkham Asylum and spending a year under the radar, the Joker returns with a vengeance targeting every member in the Bat-family. Never before has a Batman story actually spread across the titles of the Bat-family until now, and the results are to die for.
