David Mazzucchelli

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.… (més)