Reprints and collections sometimes feel like a dime a dozen, but sometimes a collection comes along that feels extra special, as the case with DC: Batman. A 320-page one-of-a-kind deluxe book contains some of Batman’s most iconic and character-changing issues, along with a replica reprint of Batman #1. Feeling like the perfect gift for a Batman fan who wants to hold it all in their hands, it’s an impressive curated work.
Curated by Jenette Kahn, who also writes the introduction, pretty much every starter issue you’d want to catch someone up on the complexities and curiosities of Batman is included. We’re talking stories that explored duality, good vs. evil, law and lawlessness, identity, sanity and madness. There’s a reason Batman has lasted so long and persists in our society, and it’s not just because he looks cool.
Collected here are ten single issues along with Batman: The Killing Joke. Single-issue stories include Batman #1 (1939), Detective Comics #66, Batman #232, Detective Comics #471, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns #1, Batman: Year One – Chapter One, Batman: Shadow of the Bat #1, and Batman #491. There is also the Batman #1 (1940), which comes tucked snuggly with the slipcase. All told, this is a strong collection featuring classic hits, the modern tales that helped shape Batman, and his iconic rogues gallery.
Kahn does a great job not only probing these themes but also calling out a few issues that didn’t make the collection but are important. It’s a nice way to revisit the stories within.
Iconic creators abound in this collection, from Neal Adams to Frank Miller, Alan More to Bob Kane, and Bill Finger. There are tales of Batman losing his mind, Joker poisoning people with toxins, and the most modern yet long-lasting villain to be introduced: Bane.
The presentation is quite nice, with the comics surrounded by a black border, giving the reading experience uniformity. Each issue is presented with a title page detailing the issue, its number, and the date it was published. The paper has a glossy feel, and the hardcover is well-made. This will survive many repeat readings. The cover design is quite cool, too, with an early rendition of Batman with a shiny silver border highlighting his outline. It’s worth noting the slipcase is well made, and speaking as someone who has felt burned by cheaply made cardboard slipcases, it’s pretty obvious this will hold up over time.
The replica Batman #1 is also a real treat, and it almost feels like you should get it slabbed ASAP. The paper quality is reminiscent of the earlier days of comics, with a brown look to the paper and a feel that is unmistakable. However, it’ll certainly hold up for a good few decades. It comes in a nice yellow envelope to protect its corners and can be tucked into the slipcase for easy filing away. The biggest boon with this is the reprinting of ads and mini-comics, which add a historic feel to the read. There’s nothing quite like old ads to put you in a nostalgic mood.
Running £65 / US $100 and currently available to purchase via Folio Society, this is an easy recommendation for the super Batman fan. It’s also a great place to start for a new reader, thanks to Kahn’s great introduction and the solid smattering of tales from 1939 to 1993. The replica comic puts this over the top as one of the most unique Batman collections available today.
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