Type: Graphic Novel, Nonfiction, DC Entertainment, Vertigo, MAD, Informative, Where do I even start?, Series, etc.
About the Book: DC Entertainment has been the birthplace of comics' landmark graphic novels, from books that defined the genre like WATCHMEN, BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS, and THE SANDMAN to contemporary classics such as JUSTICE LEAGUE VOL. 1: ORIGIN and BATMAN VOL. 1: THE COURT OF OWLS.
The DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology has revised its expansive look into our rich backlist collection featuring the talents of the best writers and illustrators in the industry. Included are key reading lists, in-depth looks at graphic novels starring heroes such as Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and the Justice League, and the best collections from our Vertigo, MAD, and digital-first lines.
This catalog can be used as an important resource for new fans seeking a starting point, as well as a look at our impressive backlist for the most fervent DCE fan.
My Review: I wasn't so sure about reading and reviewing this. I'm a huge fan of DC and Vertigo, and religiously follow several of their comic book lines - but a nonfiction book about their comics? What could they tell me that I didn't already know? Well, a lot, apparently. This book doesn't just let readers know what is out there - it also includes some history of DCE and, my favorite part, includes a listing of the 25 essential graphic novels. I love lists, and I was pleased to see how many on it I had already read, and added the rest to my to-read pile.
What pleased me most about this book was its ability to show good starting points for anyone interested in comic books. I was lucky that I had several friends obsessed with comics when I decided I wanted to start reading them, otherwise it's quite daunting to pick something up - what if you start reading in the middle of a story arc? the DCE Essentials and Chronology shows all the volume ones, and explains the recently rebooted New 52 line, which is definitely a great place to start for anyone interested. Even better, it doesn't just cover DC lines, but Vertigo (my favorite!) and MAD as well.
I would have rated the book higher, but it's very short - the size of an average graphic novel. There is so much history to cover, I believe the book would have done well to be longer. And included some more history when it comes to the big names - Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. Each character (and more!) were covered, but these are the heavy hitters, they needed some more special treatment. Especially considering this is where new readers are likely to start.
Cover Lovin': I really love this. I love the characters reading comics - and not just in print form, even! Catwoman is reading comics on a digital device, highlighting DCE's digital-first lines.
Recommendation: For fans of the DC universe, as well as for anyone interested in beginning their journey into some of the most popular graphic novels. Great for someone that wants to start reading comics, and has no clue where to begin.
Final Rating: THREE POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (3.5/5).
Happy Reading!
~!~ Manda from Novel Addiction ~!~
