This article is primarily for those who have decided to explore the wonderful and interesting world of comics, but don’t know where to start or are “unsettled” by the huge selection. But for those who are familiar with the world of comics, this article may also help you find new series or genres.
If you’re familiar with movies, TV series or games based on comic books.
- The Amazing Spider-Man c #471
- Batman: Hush
- Batman: Year One
- Astonishing X-Men
- All Star Superman
- Superman: American Alien
- Marvels
- DC: The New Frontier
- Wolverine: Origin
- Doctor Strange: The Oath.
If you’re familiar with comic book movies, TV series, or games, the best way to get started is to check out the newest movies and TV shows.
In that case the best way for you is just to read comics about your favourite and interesting characters. The only thing is, never start with old issues. Comics have changed over the decades and so have perceptions and delivery, so starting off reading Superman from the ’40s or Spider-Man from the ’60s might just make you want to keep reading. It’s best to start with comics from the 2000s or established classics such as:
The Amazing Spider-Man #471
The arrival of Jay Michael Straczynski has in a sense re-launched the series, allowing it to be read by someone familiar with Spider-Man, literally from the films. Try it out and give your take on this comic book series. You might even like the comic even more than the film.
Batman: Hush.
Far from being a masterpiece about Batman, but gives a great insight into the world of the Dark Knight, aided by a large number of classic villains and flashbacks by Batman himself.
Batman: Year One
One of Frank Miller’s masterpieces as the author of Batman. The story of the first appearance of the Dark Knight and future Commissioner Gordon in Gotham. The Batman comics in general deserve their own article.
Astonishing X-Men
Joss Whedon, director of The Avengers and Firefly, has created a self-contained and one of the best X-Men series to date. Great for getting to know the main characters of the team and their mythology.
All Star Superman
Superman is terminally ill. Over 12 issues he must deal with many problems, enemies and prepare the world and his loved ones for his passing. An extremely succinct story that contains the whole essence of this character.
Superman: American Alien
One of the best comics of 2016, one of the best Superman comics. Max Landis, in a seven issue limited edition, masterfully tells the story of Superman’s emergence as a character, from his fall to Earth, through his school and college years, all the way up to his ‘hero’ status.
Marvels
The classic and significant events of the Marvel Universe through the eyes of a mere photojournalist. A metaphor for the love of superheroes, generational change, etc. And a gorgeous drawing by Alex Ross.
DC: The New Frontier
The comic introduces not only the backstories and first steps of the famous heroes of the DC universe, but also shows what comics looked like in the 50s, with a style and world setting, but so that it will be interesting to read for modern readers, and Darwin Cook’s drawing is a particular highlight of this comic.
Wolverine: Origin
A limited edition series about the emergence of one of the most popular mutants, Wolverine, and his first adventures. The key thing to know is that the story takes place at the end of the 19th century, so no more famous heroes and superhero squabbles, it’s about people and self acceptance.
Doctor Strange: The Oath
A Doctor Strange story that offers both an introduction to the character and a heart-warming and thought-provoking story.
Last Word
These are just a sampling of how to get started with superheroes from Marvel and DC. They’re great for newcomers, you don’t need a lengthy introduction to the characters and events, and they allow you to learn more from the comic book world for those who are no strangers to comics.
Next time we’ll look at where to start reading comics if you’re not a fan of guys in colourful suits and capes. There will be comics about life, love, history and space.