Between the years biggest blockbusters like Captain America: Civil War, Batman v Superman and the upcoming Doctor Strange, comic book movies are everywhere. But jumping into comic books is a daunting experience that can cost a lot of time, effort, and money.
If you’re looking to get involved in comic books, worry not. We’ve assembled a list of some of the greatest comic book/graphic novel storylines that are essential for anyone wanting to delve into a new world. To make things even easier, I’ve tried to include storylines that are complete and available to purchase in full, saving you from picking up issue after issue in your local comic book shop.
Y: The Last Man
Brian K. Vaughan, Pia Guerra
What happens to the world if everything with a Y chromosome dies? This now famous comic book series begins with every male creature on the planet simultaneously dying, all but one man, Yorick and his pet monkey. How did they survive? What happens next? This massive but immensely personal story delves into serious political, and sexual issues within society.
Sandman
Neil Gaiman
Sandman is globally recognized as a masterpiece, and arguably the greatest storyline to ever unfold on the pages of a comic.
This iconic series follows Dream aka. Morpheus, who was held captive for 70 years, only to break free in modern times. With his new-found freedom, Morpheus embarks on a quest to regain his kingdom and lost objects of power. Along the way, Morpheus comes into contact with famous characters such as John Constantine and Lucifer.
The Dark Knight Returns
Frank Miller, Klaus Janson, Lynn Varley
It would be impossible to create this list without discussing The Dark Knight Returns. This iconic story introduces audiences to a tougher, older and more experienced Batman. Miller’s work on The Dark Knight Returns helped to reinvigorate comic books as a medium in the 1980’s.
This famous tale puts Batman against one of his biggest enemies, age, while also pitting the Dark Knight against the world’s greatest hero, Superman.
Civil War
Mark Millar
There is only one thing fans love more than superheroes, and that’s superheroes fighting each other. This influential storyline dismantled the known Marvel universe, pitting hero against hero, with endless consequences.
Much like the Captain America: Civil War storyline, Marvel’s Civil War introduces order to the Marvel Universe, with heroes being told that they either conform to a system or spend life behind bars. Of course, two sides form with Captain America and Iron Man opposing one another in a great comic book war.
Saga
Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples
Saga is an epic space/fantasy series that introduces readers to a planet at war. The story revolves around two lovers from warring civilizations, who must travel the galaxy to escape the authorities on both sides and protect their young daughter.
Taking inspiration from Star Wars and the world of fantasy, Brian K. Vaughan has created an entire universe of interesting stories, characters, and places.
If you’re thinking of jumping into the world of comic books, these are the stories we recommend. From our favorite superheroes, to more peculiar universes, you won’t regret delving into these stories.
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