The first DC superhero title I've read that wasn't a Vertigo title. Don't judge!

Exciting, well told, and beautifully drawn, but in my opinion merely good, not great. I suppose I'm reading it in a modern context, where many superhero narratives have this level of depth as a matter of course.

I find it interesting that Bruce Wayne actually remains a one-dimensional character throughout this story. It's (not yet Commissioner) Gordon who is our viewpoint character. I actually think it's a great choice, since I'm of the school of thought that most superheroes are basically sociopaths (or modern tricksters / culture heroes / demi-gods - same thing?) But I was certainly expecting more "humanized superhero" than this really delivered. ( )

"Batman: Year One", is an American comic book story arc published by DC Comics which recounts the superhero Batman's first year as a crime-fighter. Alongside of Miller's The Dark Knight Returns, this comic helped redefine Batman. No longer was Batman a cartoony, pop art, comical Adam West - he was a complex, dark individual. Year One was written by Frank Miller, illustrated by David Mazzucchelli, colored by Richmond Lewis, and lettered by Todd Klein. Batman: Year One originally appeared in issues #404–407 of the comic book title Batman in 1987. As well as recounting Batman's early crime-fighting career, the story simultaneously examines the life of recently transferred officer James Gordon – eventually building towards their partnership.

Year One helped to redefine the Batman mythos, and served as a relaunching of Batman origins. Christopher Nolan was heavily inspired by this comic when he developed Batman Begins. I really love this comic because the characters feel fully human (flaws and all), Batman doesn't feel fully fleshed out (you can see that Wayne is clearly trying to figure out how to be the caped crusader).
Unlike The Dark Knight Returns, "Year One"'s Batman is more vulnerable and inexperienced, which made the story more memorable.

If you read one Batman story. Make it this one. ( )

This is the first Batman comic I have read, and to be honest one of the few “super hero” comics. But I have been interested, for quite a while now, in trying to read Batman comics. Batman has always drawn me more than other super heroes because we can see his flaws as well as his heroic deeds, and because he doesn’t have any “powers,” he just has hard work, training, and the smarts and money to be able to do something with it. I was trying to find a good starting point considering the sheer amount of Batman comics, and did some research on a good continuity and decided to start with Year One.

The story perfectly fits what I know of Batman, and was a nice introduction into his origins as the vigilante. I did find the very stunted writing a bit strange, as I have not come across that style in other comics or mangas I have read. But in some cases, I suppose it worked to show the quick thoughts in fast paced situations. I appreciated the bit at the end of the book, talking about the illustrator’s beginnings and showing the early stages of ink and writing for Year One. The silhouette drawings of Batman are always the best!

I will admit I wasn’t expecting to see Cat Woman already so that was a surprise, but interesting. And I was also surprised but happy to have so much of Gordon’s point of view as it toggled between him and Bruce/Batman. I imagine I may like some of the comics later down the line a bit more, when Batman has become more established and his rogue gallery has expanded, but I wanted to start with the beginning, and it was overall enjoyable. ( )

If I had to pick one Batman book for someone that had never read one, it would probably be this. As an origin story, it's one of the most relatable - Batman is still a skillful amateur, with none of his legend or mythos. He struggles, makes mistakes and suffers for it. It's also a hard-boiled noir setting, which suits Gotham City up and down. Highly, highly recommended. ( )

bruce wayne lying on his stomach at the end of his bed scribbling in his diary with his legs in the air: yes father... I shall become a bat.