New Reader Guide: X-Men

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

X-Men

Homo superior: children of the atom, people of tomorrow, hated and feared. Since 1963, the X-Men have been among Marvel’s most popular heroes. Often mirroring issues such as racism and the struggles of adolescence, but also including adventures into space, mystical realms, and alternate timelines, the X-Men have a rich history with a broad array of characters and styles.

In this guide you’ll find a collection of both classic and modern X-Men titles.

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Classic

X-Men (1963)

The X-Men (1963)

Where it all began, the original Stan Lee/Jack Kirby run that introduced the world to the strangest superheroes of them all! Lead by Professor Charles Xavier, the team of teen mutants Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Beast, Angel, and Iceman fight against Magneto and his Brotherhood of Evil Mutants while they struggle to be accepted by the world at large.

X-Men (1975)

Uncanny X-Men (1975)

After several years of sagging sales and reprints of old stories, the X-Men franchise saw a huge rebirth in 1975 with the release of Giant-Size X-Men #1, which featured an all-new team that included now-legendary characters Nightcrawler, Colossus, Storm, and the most famous X-Man of them all, Wolverine.

X-Men: The Dark Phoenix Saga

The Dark Phoenix Saga (1976)

Following a mission from space, Jean Grey is exposed to what appears to be a deadly burst of solar radiation, giving her immense, godlike powers. She quickly becomes unstable, destroying numerous stars and systems while under the influence of the Phoenix Force. The X-Men, Shi’ar, and other factions in the Marvel universe fight over how to control the seemingly-unstoppable Dark Phoenix in one of the greatest epics in X-Men history.

X-Men: Days of Future Past

Days of Future Past (1981)

One of the most famous X-Men stories of all time, Days of Future Past depicted a dystopian future where the mutants have been rounded up into internment camps. An older Kitty Pryde transfers her mind back in time to her younger self in the present in order to prevent the fatal moment that causes the mass anti-mutant hysteria.

X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills

God Loves, Man Kills (1982)

After years of being bitter enemies with Professor X and the X-Men, Magneto must ally himself with them following the murder of two mutant children by the henchman of William Stryker, a fire-and-brimstone preacher hell-bent on exterminating all mutantkind.

X-Men: Inferno

Inferno (1989)

Things get supernatural as Mr. Sinister’s Marauders attack the X-Men while a horde of N’astirh’s demons prey upon the helpless, horrified populace of New York City. And when Madelyne Pryor, wife of Cyclops, becomes the Goblin Queen… all Hell breaks loose.

X-Men (1991)

X-Men (1991)

The run that launched the X-Men into the top of the sales charts and made them a household name. Featuring the team of Cyclops, Wolverine, Storm, Beast, Gambit, Psylocke, Rogue, and Jean Grey, and written by iconic X-Men writer Chris Claremont with art by the legendary Jim Lee, this is one of the most defining if not THE defining X-Men runs.

X-Men: Age of Apocalypse

Age of Apocalypse (1995)

Another one of the most famous X-Men stories, the Age of Apocalypse was a line-wide event in which Professor X’s insane son Legion comes from the future to kill Magneto in order to prevent catastrophic events. Instead, he accidentally kills Professor X, creating an alternate timeline where the world has been conquered by Apocalypse and his Four Horsemen, and Magneto leads his own X-Men in Xavier’s memory against Apocalypse.

Modern

New X-Men

New X-Men (2001, Grant Morrison)

The run that modernized the X-Men franchise and heavily influenced the early films, Grant Morrison’s New X-Men brought new life to a franchise that had become creatively stagnant. Repurposing the X-Men as a more proactive peacekeeping force for mutant rights, but also dealing with threats from within the mutant community. Notable for introducing many popular character and plotlines including Kid Omega and the return to the Genosha wasteland.

Number of volumes: 7

Astonishing X-Men

Astonishing X-Men (2004)

Cyclops and Emma Frost re-form the X-Men with the express purpose of “astonishing” the world. Featuring plot elements such as a mutant cure, an apocalyptic prophecy around one of the X-Men, and the Danger Room coming to life, this run was incredibly accessible (not least from Joss Whedon’s deft writing) and gorgeously illustrated by John Cassaday, this is a perfect entry point for new X-Men fans.

Number of volumes: 11

X-Men: Messiah CompleX

X-Men: Messiah CompleX (2007)

Hope, the first mutant born since “No More Mutants” at the end of House of M has arrived, but will she bring salvation or destruction to the X-Men and all mutankind?

Uncanny X-Men (2009)

Uncanny X-Men (2009, Matt Fraction)

The X-Men head west, founding a new home for all mutants in San Francisco! But they soon find themselves tangling with Magneto, Sentinels, and the all-new Hellfire Cult! Then, heartsick over losing Kitty Pryde, Colossus looks for something to stop his pain… and finds a nightmare from his past! Plus, Angel and the Beast gather the most unique minds on Earth to jump-start the mutant race, even as Emma Frost forges a dark alliance. Finally, who are the Sisterhood? How can they be led by Cyclops’ late wife Madelyne Pryor – and why is Psylocke on their side?!

Number of volumes: 2 (complete collections)

X-Men: Second Coming

X-Men: Second Coming (2010)

What started in HOUSE OF M with the Decimation of mutantkind and erupted with the first new mutant birth in MESSIAH COMPLEX finishes here. In the epic crossover SECOND COMING, Cyclops’ faith pays off when Cable returns to the present with Hope, the girl he believes to be the mutant messiah. But will she be the savior or destroyer of mutantkind? We may never know, as she is the target of an initiative for mutant eradication unlike anything the X-Men have ever experienced. Many will be wounded. Several will die. Is Hope worth it?

X-Men (2010)

X-Men (2010)

When a suicide bomber strikes in downtown San Francisco, it gets the X-Men’s immediate attention. But this is not your garden variety terrorist, and he’s not acting alone. Vampires from around the globe are descending en masse on the City by the Bay, staking a brutal claim for the patch of land the X-Men call their home. What is their agenda? Who is their mysterious leader? The X-Men are about to find out, as they brace themselves for a war of the species that will wreck the Marvel Universe.

Number of volumes: 8

X-Men: Schism (2010)

X-Men: Schism (2011)

The world refuses to trust mutantkind and after a mutant-triggered international incident, anti-mutant hatred hits new heights. Of course it’s at this moment, when the mutant race most needs to stand together, that a split begins that will tear apart the very foundation of the X-Men. Pitting Cyclops vs. Wolverine, this miniseries

Uncanny X-Men (2011)

Uncanny X-Men (2011, Kieron Gillen)

Earth’s mightiest mutants! In the wake of Schism, Cyclops leads a team of X-Men whose express purpose is to deal with extinction-level events. Meet the X-Men’s ‘Extinction Team’: Storm, Emma Frost, Magneto, Namor, Colossus, Danger, Magik and Hope. And not a moment too soon as Mr. Sinsiter returns!

Number of volumes: 4

All-New X-Men (2012)

All-New X-Men (2012, Brian Michael Bendis)

It’s a blast from the past as the original 5 students of Professor X — Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Iceman, Angel and Beast — are plucked from the past and brought to the present. But they find their future and the state of Xavier’s dream is far from what they dreamed of. And how will the X-Men of the present day react to these original X-Men?

Number of volumes: 7

X-Men (2013)

X-Men (2013, Brian Wood)

Featuring an all-women team, an old enemy shows up at the X-Men’s door, seeking asylum from an ancient evil come back to earth. Meanwhile, Jubilee has come home, and she’s brought with her an orphaned baby who might hold the key to the earth’s survival…or its destruction. Against a backdrop of what seems like an alien invasion and an eons-spanning war between brother and sister, Storm steps up and puts together a team to protect the child and stop a new threat that could destroy all life on earth!

Number of volumes: 5

X-Men: Battle of the Atom

X-Men: Battle of the Atom (2013)

The X-Men’s past, present and future collide in this 50th-anniversary event! Something horrible happens to the past versions of the X-Men that shakes spacetime to its core — and more X-Men arrive from the future with a message: The original five must return home! But when young Cyclops and Marvel Girl run away to stay in the present, the hunt is on! And where does the modern-day Cyclops’ revolutionary faction fit in? Things get even more complicated when mysterious foes attack the Jean Grey School, and the healing-impaired Wolverine takes a mortal hit! With spacetime up for grabs, the surprise ending will change everything as the X-Men’s footing in the world is drastically altered!

Amazing X-Men

Amazing X-Men (2013, Jason Aaron)

Ever since Nightcrawler’s death, the X-Men have been without their heart and soul. But after learning that their friend may not be gone after all, it’s up to Wolverine, Storm, Beast, Iceman, Northstar and Firestar to find and bring back the fan-favorite fuzzy blue elf! But when the team finds themselves separated and split between heaven and hell, can they get to Nightcrawler’s soul before his father, the evil Azazel, does? Pushed over the edge, the Beast gives into his savage side like never before, as Nightcrawler rallies the X-Men to take on Azazel and his hellish hordes! Can the X-Men save the afterlife, or must one of the team make the ultimate sacrifice?

Number of volumes: 3

Uncanny X-Men (2013)

Uncanny X-Men (2013, Brian Michael Bendis)

In the wake of the Phoenix event, the world has changed and is torn on exactly what Cyclops and his team of outlaw X-Men are — visionary revolutionaries or dangerous terrorists? Whatever the truth, Cyclops, Emma Frost, Magneto, and Magik are out in the world gathering new mutants and redefining the name Uncanny X-Men.

Number of volumes: 6

All-New X-Men (2015)

All-New X-Men (2015, Brian Michael Bendis)

More than ever, hatred and fear have made the world a dangerous place for mutants. But as the few remaining X-Men retreat into seclusion, a handful of mutant teenagers refuse to allow their destiny to be decided for them! And no one is more concerned about their fate than Scott Summers, whose young shoulders must bear the heavy weight of the terrible acts committed by his adult counterpart. Cyclops is joined by three of his time-torn teammates — Beast, Iceman and Angel — as well as the All-New Wolverine, Kid Apocalypse and Oya. Together, they’re heading out on the highway, looking for adventure, intent on writing their own futures! But when they encounter the baleful Blob, their road trip may end before it begins!

Number of volumes: 2

Extraordinary X-Men

Extraordinary X-Men (2015, Jeff Lemire)

With the fate of mutantkind in the balance, it’s an All-New, All-Different beginning for the X-Men! Staring down a threat to her race like nothing seen before, Storm pulls together the group she’ll need to ensure mutants’ survival — including Iceman, Jean Grey, Colossus and Magik! But can Storm and Iceman protect the last remaining mutants from a demonic attack? As a new child of the atom discovers her terrifying power, an old foe compounds the horror: Mister Sinister will bring the team face-to-face with their greatest fear. But can anyone be ready for the very first meeting of Old Man Logan and young Jean Grey? Bring all the hate and fear you want, they will fight to their last breath to survive the experience. They’re the X-Men, they’re facing down extinction, and they will be Extraordinary!

Number of volumes: 2

X-Men '92

X-Men ’92 (2015, Chad Bowers & Chris Sims)

The X-Men of a more extreme decade are back in highly animated adventures! With Cassandra Nova defeated, all the young mutants she’d rounded up are being welcomed into the officially reopened Xavier School for Gifted Children. But a crowded class schedule still allows plenty of time for extracurricular antics! Especially when Omega Red shows up with the (Formerly) Soviet Super-Soldiers! But for every ending, there must be a beginning: Prepare for the terror of Alpha Red! Plus: The machinations of the Fenris Twins, the danger of the Darkhold and…Dracula?! And, in a very special celebration of one of comics’ greatest love stories, Scott Summers and Jean Grey share a romantic getaway to remember! Start humming the theme song and dive back in to the world of X-MEN ’92 — it’s totally Nineties, but so now!

Number of volumes: 2

Uncanny X-Men (2016)

Uncanny X-Men (2016, Cullen Bunn)

In a world that’s never hated or feared mutants more, there is only one constant: bigger threats require more threatening X-Men. Refusing to accept one more mutant death, the most ruthless mutants on Earth have banded together to proactively mow down their enemies. But with a team populated by relentless killers, one question applies above all others: can they stay away from each other’s throats long enough to sever their targets?

Number of volumes: 2

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New Reader Guide: Women of Marvel

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Women of Marvel

Since the beginning of its modern incarnation in 1961, Marvel Comics has been home to many of the greatest characters in popular culture. Among those are some truly amazing and inspiring female superheroes. From high-flying space adventurers, to awkward teenagers trying to balance growing up with superheroics, to Cold War assassins turned good, Marvel’s superpowered women are some of the best and most engaging characters today.

In this guide, you’ll find many of Marvel’s greatest female superheroes and their most notable series.

Black Widow

Black Widow

Originally a secret agent trained by the KGB’s ultra-elite Red Room program, Natasha Romanoff first appeared as an antagonist to Iron Man and others before defecting and joining both SHIELD and the Avengers. Blending the colorful world of superheroics and the dark underworld of gritty espionage, Black Widow is a unique entrant in the Marvel canon.

Suggested Reading:

Secret Avengers (2010, 2013)
Black Widow (2013)
Black Widow (2015)

Captain Marvel

Captain Marvel

Carol Danvers was a decorated officer and fighter pilot in the US Air Force, when while working with Kree hero Mar-Vell, she was caught in an explosion of an alien device that partially fused his Kree DNA with her own. Now with super strength, flight, and the ability to absorb and project energy blasts, Carol strives to fight for justice and inspire others as Captain Marvel, Earth’s Mightiest Hero! In addition she also serves as the head of the current space-defense incarnation of Alpha Flight, as well as one of the senior members of the all-female A-Force.

Suggested Reading:

Captain Marvel (2013, 2014)
Captain Marvel and the Carol Corps (Secret Wars miniseries, 2015)
A-Force (Secret Wars miniseries, 2015)
Captain Marvel (2016)
The Ultimates (2016)
A-Force (2016)

Kate Bishop

Hawkeye

Full of sass, fiercely independent, and not about to let any (Hawk)guys stop her from what she wants, Kate Bishop has been a fan-favorite since her first appearance in 2005’s Young Avengers. Raised by a rich but distant family, Kate developed exceptional archery and fighting skills on par with the original Hawkeye, Clint Barton. Kate keeps Clint in line when he acts like a fool, and ends up moving out to Los Angeles where she sets up a successful PI business.

Suggested Reading:

Young Avengers (2005)
Hawkeye (2012)
Young Avengers (2013)
All-New Hawkeye (2015)
Hawkeye (2016)

Hellcat

Hellcat

One of the longest-running entries, Patsy Walker originally appeared in Marvel’s various romance comics in the late 1950s/early 1960s, but was reintroduced into the main Marvel universe as Hellcat! With the use of a strength-enhancing suit and a little supernatural extra, she develops the heroic persona of Hellcat, and ends up working alongside several superteams including the Avengers and the Defenders. Eventually she becomes the private investigator for She-Hulk’s law office, and sets out to start a job agency for superpowered individuals after her dismissal.

Suggested Reading:

Hellcat (2008)
Patsy Walker AKA Hellcat! (2015)

Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones

The former superheroine named as Jewel and proprietor of Alias Investigations, Jessica Jones is a sharp, strongly independent, yet flawed private investigator. However, despite her flaws, Jessica’s drive to help people always wins out. Whether it’s investigating and working in the shady underworld of the Marvel universe, keeping her eventual husband Luke Cage in line, or raising their daughter Danielle, Jessica Jones is one of the most human characters in the Marvel canon.

Suggested Reading:

Alias (2001)
The Pulse (2004)
New Avengers (2010)
Jessica Jones (2016)

Kitty Pryde

Kitty Pryde

A longtime X-Men fan-favorite, Kitty Pryde has gone from wide-eyed POV character to respected leader over the course of her history. Serving on a variety of teams including the main X-Men, Excalibur, and the Guardians of the Galaxy, Kitty is a great example of a young character growing up amidst the action and general madness of superheroics and coming out all the better for it.

Suggested Reading:

Astonishing X-Men (2004)
Wolverine & The X-Men (2011)
Uncanny X-Men (2013)
Star-Lord & Kitty Pryde (Secret Wars miniseries, 2015)
Guardians of the Galaxy (2015)

Ms. Marvel

Ms. Marvel

Kamala Khan was an average teenager in Jersey City: going to school, trying to please her strict parents, writing fan fiction about the heroic exploits of the Avengers (specifically her hero Captain Marvel). One night after sneaking out of her house, she is overwhelmed by the roaming Terrigen mists, which trigger Inhuman Terrigenesis. After emerging from the Inhuman cocoon she discovers she now has the power to “embiggen” herself or her body parts, allowing her the ability to fight crime and save people just like her heroes.

Suggested Reading:

Ms. Marvel (2014)
Ms. Marvel (2015)
All New, All Different Avengers (2015)

She-Hulk

She-Hulk

When mild-mannered attorney Jennifer Walters received an emergency blood transfusion from her cousin Bruce Banner, she gained the ability to turn into the jade giantess, the green glamazon, the Sensational She-Hulk! However, unlike her infamous cousin, Jen maintains control while hulked out, becoming a super-confident, much more outgoing version of herself. Combining larger-than-life action, clever self-aware humor, courtroom intrigue, and great characterization, She-Hulk is a consistently entertaining and unique character.

Suggested Reading:

Sensational She-Hulk (1989)
She-Hulk (2005, 2006)
She-Hulk (2014)
FF (2012)
A-Force (Secret Wars miniseries, 2015)
A-Force (2016)

Spider-Gwen

Spider-Gwen

An alternate version of Gwen Stacy in which she was bitten by that fateful radioactive spider and Peter Parker died instead, Spider-Gwen is a new and different spin on the Spider-Man mythos. With a punk-rock style, unique costume design, and strong attitude, Gwen Stacy has very quickly become a fan-favorite character and must-read addition to Marvel comics.

Suggested Reading:

Spider-Gwen (vol. 1 2015, vol. 2 2015)
Spider-Verse (Secret Wars miniseries, 2015)
Web Warriors (2015)

Spider-Woman

Spider-Woman

From Hydra terrorist to private investigator to SHIELD secret agent, Jessica Drew operates in the same kind of world as Black Widow, spanning both the espionage underworld and larger than life world of superheroes. Most recently, Spider-Woman gave birth to a child, making her life of action even more complicated and exciting.

Suggested Reading:

New Avengers (2005)
Spider-Woman: Agent of SWORD (2009)
Spider-Woman (2014, 2015)

Squirrel Girl

Squirrel Girl

Powers of a squirrel! Powers of a girl! The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl has quickly become a fan favorite in recent years, with her quirky attitude, goofiness, and all-around unbeatability (she’s single-handedly defeated Galactus, Thanos, Doctor Doom, and others), Doreen Green has a hugely broad appeal. Currently in college as a computer science major, Doreen and her best friends Nancy and Tippy-Toe (her human and squirrel roommates, respectively), has already had many adventures, including defeating Kraven by convincing him to hunt giant monsters elsewhere and Galactus by drawing his attention to a much more delicious planet covered in nuts.

Suggested Reading:

Great Lakes Avengers (2005)
Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, vol. 1 (2015)
Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, vol. 2 (2015)
Squirrel Girl Beats Up the Marvel Universe (2016)

Storm

Storm

Revered as a goddess on the plains of Africa, Ororo Monroe has been an iconic member of the X-Men for decades. Over the years Storm has lost her powers (and rocked a sweet mohawk and punk outfit), lead several X-teams, and been the queen consort of Wakanda, all while being one of the highest-profile characters in Marvel Comics as well as one of the first and most famous black female superheroes.

Suggested Reading:

X-Men (1992)
X-Men (2011)
X-Men (2013)
Storm (2014)
Extraordinary X-Men (2016)

X-23

X-23

A female clone of Wolverine, Laura Kinney was originally created as an assassin by the Weapon Plus project. She is eventually taken in by the Xavier Institute and broken free of her assassin programming. Wolverine takes her under his wing, and she is slowly able to regain her humanity. Following Wolverine’s death, she ends up taking up his mantle to honor his legacy.

Suggested Reading:

NYX (2003)
X-23 (2005, 2010)
X-Force (2008)
Uncanny X-Force (2010)
Avengers Arena (2012)
Wolverines (2015)
All-New Wolverine (2015)

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New Reader Guide: Image Comics

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Image Comics

Founded in 1992 by some of the highest-profile creators in comics at the time, Image Comics was formed with a focus on creator-owned independent comics, allowing creators complete creative freedom to make the comics they want without editorial interference. After being known primarily for 90s EXTREME titles such as Spawn, Youngblood, and others, Image has undergone a resurgence starting in the late 2000s and still going on today, with some of the biggest and best names in comics creating numerous original and highly-acclaimed series across a broad array of genres and styles.

In this guide, you’ll find a sampling of Image’s recent and more popular series.

Bitch Planet

Bitch Planet

Witness a future with the patriarchy gone mad! Women deemed “non-compliant” (not pretty enough, not skinny enough, not perky enough, not submissive enough, etc…) are shipped to an off-world prison colony where they face abuse and exploitation and the hands of their oppressors. Smart, witty, and viciously satirical, Bitch Planet is a brilliant sci-fi twist on the “women in prison” exploitation genre.

Writer: Kelly Sue DeConnick
Artist: Valentine De Landro
Genre: Sci-Fi, Satire
Number of volumes: 1

The Black Monday Murders

The Black Monday Murders

Melding occult horror with gritty crime noir, this series explores the idea of the world controlled by banking cartels which are secretly schools of magic, and vampire Russian oligarchs, Black popes, enchanted American aristocrats, and hitmen from the International Monetary Fund work behind the scenes to keep everyone in their place.

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Tomm Coker
Genre: Horror, Crime
Number of volumes: 1

Black Science

Black Science

Anarchist scientist Grant McKay, with the help of the Pillar, has unlocked the Black Science, allowing him to travel between alternate universes. The Pillar sends McKay and his crew flying uncontrollably through infinity, trapping them universes away with no way home. A gritty, pulp sci-fi epic, Black Science is a mind-bending trip through the darkest depths of all realities.

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Matteo Scalera
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 5

Chew

Chew

Tony Chu is a cop with a secret. A weird secret. Tony Chu is Cibopathic, which means he gets psychic impressions from whatever he eats. It also means he’s a hell of a detective, as long as he doesn’t mind nibbling on the corpse of a murder victim to figure out whodunit, and why. It’s a dirty job, and Tony has to eat terrible things in the name of justice. And if that wasn’t bad enough, the government has figured out Tony Chu’s secret. They have plans for him, whether he likes it or not.

Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Genre: Crime, Comedy, Horror
Number of volumes: 11

Deadly Class

Deadly Class

In the mid 80s, Marcus Lopez finds himself in the same crappy high school situation we’ve all been in: bullies, desperate crushes, bad grades, the works. The difference is, the jocks are the children of Stalin’s deadliest killers, and the teachers are part of an ancient order of assassins. Welcome to the most brutal high school on earth, where the world’s top crime families send the next generation of assassins to be trained. Murder is an art. Killing is a craft. At Kings Dominion School for the Deadly Arts, the dagger in your back isn’t always metaphorical.

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Wesley Craig, Lee Loughridge
Genre: Action, Thriller
Number of volumes: 4

Descender

Descender

Tim-21 is a boy robot who, after being in stasis for years, is reactivated to find that following an apocalyptic attack by the mechanical Harvesters across the human worlds, all androids have been outlawed. Combining the epic spectacle of the grandest space operas with the journey of a very human robot, Descender is a thrilling, heartfelt sci-fi tale like no other.

Writer: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Dustin Nguyen
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 2

East of West

East of West

A post-apocalyptic alternate history sci-fi Western, East of West is an incredibly original series depicting a world where the American Civil War raged on for half a century, stopped only by a cataclysmic meteor strike. A shattered former United States is ruled by powerful corporations and secret societies, with one group attempting to bring about the end of the world. Our only hope lies with none other than Death himself.

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Nick Dragotta
Genre: Sci-Fi, Western
Number of volumes: 5

The Fade Out

The Fade Out

Set in the Golden Age of Hollywood, The Fade Out is Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips doing what they do best: gritty crime noir stories. A noir film stuck in endless reshoots. A writer plagued with nightmares from the war and a dangerous secret. An up-and-coming starlet’s suspicious death. And a maniacal Studio Mogul and his Security Chief who will do anything to keep the cameras rolling before the Post-War boom days come crashing down.

Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Sean Phillips
Genre: Crime
Number of volumes: 3

Fatale

Fatale

Blending gritty noir and dark horror, Fatale centers on a reporter in 2012 stumbles on a secret that leads him down the darkest path imaginable to a seductive woman who’s been on the run since 1935, a mobster who may be an immortal demon monster, and the stories of all the doomed men who’ve been caught in their decades-long struggle.

Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Sean Phillips
Genre: Crime, Horror
Number of volumes: 5

The Fix

The Fix

From the creators of Marvel’s woefully-underrated Superior Foes of Spider-Man comes a thrilling new crime comedy: crooked cops, scheming mobsters, and corrupt politicians that run things – and the sex toy that can bring them all down. Also, the hero of the story is a drug-sniffing beagle named Pretzels.

Writer: Nick Spencer
Artist: Steve Lieber
Genre: Crime, Comedy
Number of volumes: 1

Huck

Huck

A young man in a quiet town secretly uses his superpowers to do a good deed daily. However, once his secret leaks out, the whole world comes calling, and the dark origins of his powers come to light. A bright, uplifting story by Mark Millar (best known for cynical, bone-crunching works such as Kick-Ass and the Ultimates), Huck explores the idea of nature vs. nurture, and using one’s powers for good for the sake of good.

Writer: Mark Millar
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Genre: Superhero, Action, Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 1

Injection

Injection

Five mad geniuses have poisoned the century, and now they must deal with the fallout of their bleeding-edge weird science actions to save the world. Blending sci-fi, horror, techno-thriller, and noir elements, this series has Warren Ellis at his high-concept, bizarre sci-fi best.

Writer: Warren Ellis
Artist: Declan Shalvey
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 2

Invincible

Invincible

This book boldly claims to be “probably the best superhero comic in the universe!” Mark Grayson is teenage superhero Invincible. He was a normal high school senior with a normal part-time job and otherwise normal life, except his father Nolan is the superhero Omni-Man, the most powerful superhero on the planet. At the age of 17, Mark begins to display superpowers, which come from his father being a member of the Viltrumite race, who, according to Nolan, pioneer the galaxy on a mission of benevolence and enlightenment. Taking on the heroic persona of Invincible, Mark joins with other young superheroes to become the next generation of global guardians, until the horrifying truth of the Viltrumites and their intentions are revealed.

Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Cory Walker
Genre: Superhero, Action
Number of volumes: 22

Jupiter's Legacy

Jupiter’s Circle/Legacy

Centering around a family of legendary superheroes, Jupiter’s Legacy focuses on the children of two of these most famous heroes. As their family’s secret struggles and infighting come to light, can the world survive the explosive fallout?

Jupiter’s Circle centers around the most celebrated heroes of the mid-20th century, but beneath the glossy surface lie horrible secrets behind their public and private exploits that threaten to destroy everything.

Writer: Mark Millar
Artist: Wilfredo Torres
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 1 (Legacy), 2 (Circle)

Lazarus

Lazarus

In a dystopian near-future government is a quaint concept, resources are coveted, and possession is 100% of the law. A handful of Families rule, jealously guarding what they have and exploiting the Waste who struggle to survive in their domains. Each family has their own Lazarus, an enhanced agent specially tasked to protect their family’s assets. Forever Carlyle is one of these agents, executing the orders of her family’s leadership, until she starts to realize the truth behind the ruling families.

Writer: Greg Rucka
Artist: Michael Lark
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 4

The Manhattan Projects

The Manhattan Projects

What if the Manhattan Project during World War II was just a front for other, far weirder super science projects? Using actual (if not highly exaggerated) figures and events from the mid-20th century, The Manhattan Projects is an aggressively bizarre series that features such things as a kindly radioactive skeleton, a famous scientist with an infinite number of split personas who also happens to be a killer cannibal, an intelligent talking Soviet space dog, and an AI based on the brainwaves of a dead president. Simultaneously funny, dark, and thought-provoking, this series thoroughly lives up to its tagline of “Science. Bad.”

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Nick Pitarra
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 6

Monstress

Monstress

Set in an alternate matriarchal 1900’s Asia, in a richly imagined world of art deco-inflected steampunk, MONSTRESS tells the story of a teenage girl who is struggling to survive the trauma of war, and who shares a mysterious psychic link with a monster of tremendous power, a connection that will transform them both.

Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artist: Sana Takeda
Genre: Fantasy
Number of volumes: 1

Morning Glories

Morning Glories

Morning Glory Academy is one of the most prestigious prep schools in the country, but something sinister and deadly lurks behind its walls. Six gifted students arrive, when dark and unexplainable occurrences start to happen, the school’s true nature begins to come to light and the students must struggle to survive.

Writer: Nick Spencer
Artist: Joe Eisma
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Number of volumes: 9

ODY-C

ODY-C

After a century-long war, Odyssia the Clever and her compatriots begin an even more dangerous journey: the return home. Along the way they encounter amazing and mind-bending threats and challenges in this genderbent, sci-fi take on Homer’s The Odyssey. Written by Matt Fraction and gorgeously illustrated by Christian Ward, this series is a psychedelic sci-fi epic in the grandest fashion.

Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Christian Ward
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy
Number of volumes: 2

Paper Girls

Paper Girls

In this throwback to 80s sci-fi thrillers, four 12-year-old newspaper delivery girls make a shocking discovery in their small town. Suburban drama and otherworldly mysteries collide in this thrilling series about nostalgia, first jobs, and the last days of childhood.

Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
Artist: Cliff Chiang
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Number of volumes: 2

Rat Queens

Rat Queens

A unique take on the fantasy adventure genre, Rat Queens centers on a band of female adventurers: Hannah the Rockabilly Elven
Mage, Violet the Hipster Dwarven Fighter, Dee the Atheist Human Cleric, and Betty the Hippy Hobbit Thief, as they fight, drink, and generally raise hell across the lands in search of fame and fortune.

Writer: Kurtis J. Wiebe
Artist: Roc Upchurch, Stjepan Šejić and Tess Fowler
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Comedy
Number of volumes: 3

Rumble

Rumble

An ancient scarecrow god walks into a bar… and proceeds to wreak havoc across two worlds! After a long absence, Rathraq, Scarecrow Warrior God, is back-and very unhappy. Bad news for his old enemies, yes, but worse news for everybody else. Featuring everything dive bars, undead kitty cats, psycho skinheads, and giant mummies, this bizarre adventure dials up the crazy action to the max and never stops.

Writer: John Arcudi
Artist: James Harren
Genre: Action, adventure, fantasy, thriller
Number of volumes: 3

Saga

Saga

Blending numerous genres including sci-fi, fantasy, action, adventure, drama, romance, and war, this critically-acclaimed fan favorite series focuses on a pair of new parents Marko and Alana, from opposite sides of an epic war as they seek to find their place in the universe. Smart, sexy, funny, and very honest, this wildly original yet very grounded series has consistently been one of Image’s top books since it began.

Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
Artist: Fiona Staples
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Action, Romance
Number of volumes: 6

Sex Criminals

Sex Criminals

Suzy and Jon discover that whenever they have sex, time stops. Naturally, they use this to freeze time rob banks in order to save Suzy’s library from foreclosure. Along the way they encounter other people with this ability, including the oppressive Sex Police, as well as realize what they need from a relationship. Very funny, very graphic, and VERY honest, this series is a simultaneously hilarious and realistic look at modern romantic relationships.

Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Chip Zdarsky
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Number of volumes: 3

Sons of the Devil

Sons of the Devil

Centering around average guy Travis, this series follows him as he discovers his long-held family ties to a deadly cult. Told across 30 years, this series explores themes such as family ties, cults, and the dark side of human nature.

Writer: Brian Buccellato
Artist: Toni Infante
Genre: horror
Number of volumes: 2

Southern Bastards

Southern Bastards

Welcome to Craw County, Alabama, home of Boss BBQ, the state champion Runnin’ Rebs football team, and more bastards than you’ve ever seen. When you’re an angry old man like Earl Tubb, the only way to survive a place like this, is to carry a really big stick. After coming back to Craw County for his father’s funeral, Earl Tubb wants nothing more than to get out as quick as he came. The problem is, there’s just too much of a mess to not deal with. Southern Bastards is a gritty, country-fried crime series with an all-too-authentic Southern feel.

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Jason Latour
Genre: Crime
Number of volumes: 3

Southern Cross

Southern Cross

Alex Braith is on board the cargo ship Southern Cross retracing her sister’s steps to a refinery moon, hoping to collect her remains and find some answers. The questions keep coming though-how did her sister die? Where did her cabin mate disappear to? Who is that creep across the hall? And why does she always feel like she’s being watched?

Writer: Becky Cloonan
Artist: Andy Belanger
Genre: Sci-Fi, horror
Number of volumes: 1

Tokyo Ghost

Tokyo Ghost

Los Angeles, 2089. Everyone is hooked on the world’s most addictive drug: technology. Distracted from the ruined outside world, gangsters keep the technology going while the people struggle and trade and fight for their next fix. When the gangs need their rule enforced, they call Constables Led Dent and Debbie Decay. This duo is about to be given a job that will force them out of the familiar squalor of Los Angeles to take down the last tech-less country on Earth: The Garden Nation of Tokyo.

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Sean Murphy and Matt Hollingsworth
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 2

Trees

Trees

They landed ten years ago, all over the world. And they did nothing, standing on the surface of the Earth like trees, exerting their silent pressure on the world, as if there were no-one here and nothing under foot. Ten years since we learned that there is intelligent life in the universe, but that they did not recognize us as intelligent or alive. This series looks at a near-future world where life goes on in the shadows of the Trees: in China, where a young painter arrives in the “special cultural zone” of a city under a Tree; in Italy, where a young woman under the menacing protection of a fascist gang meets an old man who wants to teach her terrible skills; and in Svalbard, where a research team is discovering, by accident, that the Trees may not be dormant after all, and the awful threat they truly represent.

Writer: Warren Ellis
Artist: Jason Howard
Genre: Sci-Fi
Number of volumes: 2

Velvet

Velvet

A gritty spy thriller, this series centers around Velvet Templeton, secretary to director of the CIA. When the world’s greatest secret agent is killed, all signs point to her. Now on the run, Velvet will have to live up to her reputation as the most dangerous woman alive to clear her name and take revenge on those who framed her.

Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Steve Epting
Genre: Action, Crime, Spy Thriller
Number of volumes: 3

The Walking Dead

The Walking Dead

The world as we know it has ended. World governments have fallen and the cities are infested with hordes the living dead. How will the survivors adjust to this new reality while struggling to maintain their own humanity? The long-running survival horror series that spawned the critically-acclaimed AMC series, The Walking Dead asks what happens when we finally have to start living on our own.

Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Tony Moore and Charlie Adlard
Genre: Horror
Number of volumes: 26

The Wicked + The Divine

The Wicked + The Divine

Every ninety years, twelve gods incarnate as humans. They are loved. They are hated. In two years, they are dead. This time around, the gods have reincarnated has pop stars, fueled by the admiration of their legions of fans. This stylish, critically-acclaimed and fan-favorite series explores themes such as life and death, the power of creativity, and the fleeting nature of fame and power.

Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Jamie McKelvie
Genre: Fantasy
Number of volumes: 4

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New Reader Guide: Deadpool

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Deadpool
Wade Wilson: The Merc With A Mouth. the Regeneratin’ Degenerate. The fourth wall-breaking, wisecracking antihero has exploded in popularity in the last few years. Numerous ongoing comic series, limited series, video game appearances, and a movie have propelled Deadpool into a public eye like never before. The combination of ridiculous action, goofy humor, and genuine pathos have given the character a huge appeal, along with a load of ongoing and limited series.

In this guide you’ll find the current Deadpool ongoing series, as well as some of the more acclaimed past ongoings and limited series.

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Current Series

Deadpool

Deadpool (2015)

With a very self-aware premise, the current Deadpool series finds Wade as the most popular superhero in the world. To help out with his newfound hero-y duties, Deadpool has hired a team of miscreants and morally questionable allies to raise brand awareness and kick butt in red and black.

Writers: Gerry Duggan
Artists: Mike Hawthorne, Scott Koblish
Number of volumes (to date): 3

Uncanny Avengers

Uncanny Avengers (2015)

Founded by Steve Rogers post-Secret Wars, the new Uncanny Avengers not only included members of the Avengers and X-Men, but also the Inhumans and a certain red-clad fan favorite mercenary.

Writers: Gerry Duggan
Artists: Carlos Pacheco, Ryan Stegman
Number of volumes (to date): 2

Spider-Man/Deadpool

Spider-Man/Deadpool

Reuniting the classic creative team that made Deadpool famous in the first place, Spider-Man/Deadpool is the ultimate mismatched team-up of Marvel’s Greatest Superhero and the Merc With a Mouth. Inspired by Spider-Man’s do-goodery, Deadpool desperately tries to befriend Spider-Man, despite Spidey’s complete abhorrence to Deadpool’s violent ways. Not only that, Deadpool has been hired to kill none other than Peter Parker!

Writers: Joe Kelly
Artists: Ed McGuinness
Number of volumes (to date): 2

Deadpool and the Mercs For Money

Deadpool and the Mercs For Money

To help out with the abundance of jobs due to his newfound massive fame, Deadpool hires a team of mercenaries including aquatic soldier Stingray, cartoony Slapstick, Masacre (¡El Deadpool de Mexico!), undead Terror Inc., and mercenary stalwarts Paladin and Solo. He may be a hero on his own terms, but how will Deadpool fare as a team leader?

Writer: Cullen Bunn
Artist: Iban Coello

Concluded Series

Deadpool Classic

Deadpool (1997)

The character-defining run that took Deadpool from secondary X-Force character into the hilarious, fourth-wall breaking, surprisingly-deep antihero we all know and love. The series had numerous creative teams throughout its run, but the best (read: funniest, most-well-written) runs were written by Joe Kelly and Gail Simone, which are collected in Deadpool Classic volumes 2-5 (Kelly) and 9-10 (Simone). Gail Simone’s run also includes the spin-off series Agent X, which picks up directly after the 1997 run that ends with Deadpool’s apparent death, and stars a wisecracking amnesiac who may or may not indeed be Deadpool.

Writers: Joe Kelly, Gail Simone
Artists: Ed McGuinness, Pete Woods, Alvin Lee of UDON Studios
Recommended volumes: 2-5, 9, 10

Deadpool & Cable

Deadpool & Cable

Following the conclusion of Agent X, Deadpool was relaunched as Cable & Deadpool (retitled Deadpool & Cable in later reprints due to his surge in popularity). The series is a great buddy-action-comedy that features Deadpool’s insanity (but desperation to do the right thing) playing off of Cable’s straight-man stoicism. Cable attempts to set himself up as a global savior, aiming to bring about world peace by martyring himself. The world reacts with hostility, with the X-Men reluctantly bringing Deadpool along due to his and Cable’s connection (including a hilariously awkward costume selection).

Writers: Fabian Nicieza, Reilly Brown
Artists: Mark Brooks, Patrick Zircher, Reilly Brown, Dave Ross, Lan Medina, Staz Johnson, Ron Lim, John Malin
Number of volumes: 2 (Ultimate Collections)

Deadpool

Deadpool (2008)

Spinning out of Marvel’s 2008 crossover event Secret Invasion, this series opens with Deadpool infiltrating the Skrull armada to steal data for Nick Fury. Throughout the series he runs with (or afoul of) everyone from Norman Osborne to Bullseye-as-Hawkeye to the X-Men to an evil version of himself cobbled together from old parts!

Writer: Daniel Way
Artists: Paco Medina, Carlo Barberi, Dalibor Talajic
Number of volumes: 11

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth

Deadpool: Merc With A Mouth

Deadpool is hired by super-science-terrorist organization AIM to steal a bio-weapon, his own zombified head! Deadpool and his new, bitey pal Headpool team up and venture across multiple dimensions, encountering various alternate versions of himself including Kidpool, decorated SHIELD agent Major Wade Wilson, and Lady Deadpool, as well killing a ton of zombie superheroes!

Collected in Deadpool Classic, Vol. 11

Writer: Victor Gischler
Artist: Kyle Baker, Bong Dazo, Ken Lashley, Rob Liefeld, Matteo Scalera

Uncanny X-Force

Uncanny X-Force

A secret organization has resurrected the nearly-omnipotent mutant Apocalypse, so X-Men Wolverine and Archangel assemble a new X-Force team consisting of Fantomex, Psylocke, and Deadpool to stop Apocalypse by any means necessary. Despite being part of a designated kill squad, Deadpool has some major reservations with some of their missions, including facing the classic moral question of “would you kill a mass-murdering tyrant as a child?”

Writer: Rick Remender
Artists: Rafael Albuquerque, Esad Ribic
Number of volumes: 7

Deadpool

Deadpool (2012)

Relaunched as part of the Marvel NOW initiative, this series brings together the acclaimed writer duo of Gerry Duggan and comedian Brian Posehn. The first story arc opens with a rogue SHIELD agent attempting to resurrect the dead presidents to make America great again, but the spell fails and the presidents are brought back as evil zombies! SHIELD hires Deadpool to clean up the mess, and all kinds of insanity/hilarity ensues! This series also introduced the recurring trend of flashback issues, done in the visual style of the era it takes place in (WWII Golden Age war comics, trippy Kirby-esque Silver Age, gritty 70’s crime, etc…).

Writers: Gerry Duggan, Brian Posehn
Artists: Tony Moore, Mike Hawthorne, Scott Koblish, Evan “Doc” Shaner, John Lucas
Number of volumes: 8

Limited Series

Hawkeye vs. Deadpool

Hawkeye vs. Deadpool

It’s Halloween in Brooklyn, and everyone’s in costume as Deadpool and Hawkeye must team up to stop a brainwashing scheme terrorizing the borough, if they don’t kill each other first!

Writer: Gerry Duggan
Artist: Matteo Lolli

Deadpool Pulp

Deadpool Pulp

Spinning out of the Marvel Noir series, this limited series re-imagines Deadpool as a gritty covert operative hunting a rogue CIA spy in a surprisingly dark, 1950s pulp-inspired thriller.

Writers: Mike Benson, Adam Glass
Artist: Laurence Campbell

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New Reader Guide: Justice League

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Justice League

The greatest team ever assembled in the DC Universe, the Justice League has been the premier superhero team for over half a century, featuring the famous Trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, as well as many more. The Justice League has had numerous incarnations over the years, from the high-level superhero A-list to the lesser-known underdogs, but it’s never without its share of thrills and heroics.

In this guide you’ll find the recent Justice League ongoing series, as well as some of the more acclaimed miniseries, story arcs, and other series.

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Current Ongoing Series

Justice League (Rebirth)

Justice League

Relaunched in 2016 as part of DC’s Rebirth initiative, this series finds the Justice League teaming together for the first time. Batman and Wonder Woman are mistrustful of their newfound ally Superman, but they must put their differences aside to stop both earthquakes from shattering cities around the world as well as an ancient intelligence known as the Awakened turning people against anyone with superpowers, including the League!

Writer: Bryan Hitch
Artist: Jesus Merino

Injustice: Gods Among Us

Injustice: Gods Among Us

Based on the hit video game of the same name, Injustice: Gods Among Us tells the story of an alternate universe where Superman was tricked by the Joker into killing Lois Lane. Mad with rage and sorrow, Superman not only kills the Joker, but takes over the world to rule as he sees fit. The heroes of the DC Universe are split, some siding with ruler Superman and his new world order, others do not, including Superman’s greatest foe: Batman!

Writers: Tom Taylor, Brian Buccellato, Justin Aclin
Artists: Mike S. Miller, Jheremy Raapack, Tom Derenick, Bruno Redondo
Number of volumes: 8

Concluded Series (New 52)

JLA

JLA

Described by writer/artist Bryan Hitch as the book he’s wanted to do since he was a kid, the 2015 JLA series featured a more classic approach to the iconic team while still bringing Hitch’s modern “widescreen” style. The series starts with the well-established Justice League encountering a massive alien fleet as it heads towards the Earth, with a startling tie to the planet Krypton.

Writer/Artist: Bryan Hitch

Justice League (New 52)

Justice League

One of the flagship titles of DC’s line wide relaunch, Justice League features the team at the very beginning: Batman discovers a massive threat to all life on Earth, and assembles a team of an all-powerful alien, an Amazon warrior, a scarlet speedster, a cocky space cop, an undersea king, and an accidental teen superhero to face this threat. Can they set aside their differences and trust each other long enough to face the enemy and save the world?

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Jim Lee, Scott Williams, Ivan Reis, Doug Mahnke, Jason Fabok, Francis Manapul
Number of volumes: 8

Justice League of America (New 52)

Justice League of America

Spinning out of Throne of Atlantis (Justice League, volume 3), Col. Steve Trevor of ARGUS forms a new Justice League consisting of Catwoman, Katana, Green Lantern, Green Arrow, Martian Manhunter, Hawkman, Star Girl and Vibe. This “world’s most dangerous team” fights threats lurking in the shadows, but not everyone may be fighting for the same cause.

Writers: Geoff Johns, Matt Kindt
Artists: Brett Booth, David Finch, Doug Mahnke
Number of volumes: 2

Justice League International (New 52)

Justice League International

With the growing metahuman population around the world, the United Nations commissions a team consisting of Batman, Booster Gold, Green Lantern Guy Gardner, August General in Iron, Fire, Ice, Vixen and Rocket Red to promote unity and trust in the general populace. The question is if they can achieve this goal without killing each other first. A modern take on the classic 1980s JLI.

Writer: Dan Jurgens
Artists: Aaron Lopresti, Matthew Ryan
Number of volumes: 1

Justice League 3000 (New 52)

Justice League 3000

A thousand years in the future, the greatest heroes of the DC Universe are born again to new and strange world to face amazing new threats. However, the future isn’t so bright when they discover the means of their resurrections in the distant future as well as the forces standing to destroy the world.

Writer: Keith Giffen
Artists: J.M. DeMatteis, Howard Porter
Number of volumes: 2

Justice League Dark

Justice League Dark

When supernatural forces threaten the DC Universe, a new Justice League will come together! Made up of Shade the Changing Man, Madame Xanadu, Deadman, Zatanna, Mindwarp and John Constantine, this team of mystics face the threats too strange and unnatural for the regular superheroes.

Writers: Peter Milligan, Jeff Lemire, Ray Fawkes, J. M. DeMatteis, Dan DiDio, Ann Nocenti
Artists: Mikel Janin

Concluded Series (Pre-New 52)

Justice League International

Justice League (1986)

Following Crisis on Infinite Earths, the creative team of Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis, and Kevin Maguire came together to put their unique, quirky spin on the Justice League. Organized by scheming businessman Max Lord, the team of Batman, Guy Gardner, Black Canary, Doctor Light, Martian Manhunter, Blue Beetle, Booster Gold, Shazam, and Doctor Fate set off to the brutal world of Apokalips to rescue their comrade Mr. Miracle, if they can stop bickering long enough to do so. The origin of many long-running jokes and references, including “one punch,” the sentient island of Kooey Kooey Kooey, the iconic cover featuring the oddball team, and much more.

Writers: Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Kevin Maguire

Justice League of America

Justice League of America (1997)

Widely considered one of the greatest JLA series of all time, the 1997 relaunch featured many now-legendary creators and storylines, including Grant Morrison, Mark Waid, Joe Kelly, Bryan Hitch, and more. Starting with a “back-to-basics” approach, the team is primarily made up of the core seven characters of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Flash (Wally West), Green Lantern (Kyle Rayner), and the Martian Manhunter. The series also introduced the team’s iconic Moon-based Watchtower headquarters. Many high-concept ideas were introduced, such as the team being allegories for mythical characters. Being the most powerful team of heroes in the DC Universe, they primarily faced off against only the most powerful and complex threats including White Martians, Starro the Conqueror, a futuristic Darkseid, and more. Almost completely self-contained, this run on the Justice League redefined the team while being very accessible for new readers.

Writers: Grant Morrison, Mark Waid, Joe Kelly, Denny O’Neil, Chuck Austen, Kurt Busiek, Geoff Johns, Allan Heinberg, Bob Harras
Artists: Howard Porter, Bryan Hitch, Doug Mahnke
Number of volumes: 8

Justice League of America

Justice League of America (2006)

One year after the events of Infinite Crisis, Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman convene in the Batcave to re-form a new Justice League. They end up selecting Green Lantern Hal Jordan, Black Canary, Red Arrow (Green Arrow’s former sidekick), Red Tornado, Vixen, Black Lightning, and Hawkgirl. The series initially focuses on android Red Tornado, and has the team facing a reincarnated Solomon Grundy and the rebuilt android Amazo. Prior to the New 52 relaunch, this series was effectively the core of the DC Universe.

Writers: Brad Meltzer, Geoff Johns, Dwayne McDuffie, Alan Burnett, James Robinson
Artists: Ed Benes, Dale Eaglesham, Mark Bagley, Andy Kubert, Brett Booth
Number of volumes: 10

Limited Series and Events

Crisis on Infinite Earths

Crisis on Infinite Earths

The original mega-crossover, Crisis on Infinite Earths brought together DC’s vast multiverse in an unprecedented event that changed things forever. The Anti-Monitor rampages across universes to destroy all of reality, and the Monitor races across the remaining universes to gather forces and stop his evil counterpart.

Writer: Marv Wolfman
Artist: George Perez

Final Crisis

Final Crisis

Darkseid, the ultimate villain of the DC Universe, has come to Earth. Gathering all of the forces of evil, he wages war against the heroes of Earth, killing several major players early on. Grant Morrison’s trademark cerebral style is on full display here, as the limited series deconstructs superhero tropes and archetypes.

Writer: Grant Morrison
Artist: J.G. Jones

Formerly Known as the Justice League

Formerly Known as the Justice League

When the Justice League is busy fighting Darkseid and other global threats, who do you call for the little things? Max Lord has the answer! Reuniting the old JLI lineup of Blue Beetle, Booster Gold, Fire, Elongated Man, Captain Atom and Mary Marvel in a strip mall as the “Super Buddies,” Giffen, DeMatteis, and Maguire bring their signature quirky style to this oddball team as they bicker with each other and investigate an underworld supervillain casino and superpowered fight club.

Writers: Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Kevin Maguire

I Can't Believe It's Not the Justice League

I Can’t Believe It’s Not the Justice League

The follow-up to Formerly Known as the Justice League, the Super Buddies operations get thrown for a loop when former foe Blackguard sets up a sports bar next door in their strip mall, with his business partner Guy Gardner! Quips fly fast as the team fights evil alternate dimension versions of themselves, and they literally go to hell!

Writers: Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Kevin Maguire

Infinite Crisis

Infinite Crisis

The DC mega-event of 2005 reaches every corner of the DC universe: epic interstellar wars, magical chaos, multiversal threats, massive conspiracies, and more! This limited series shook the DCU to its core and completely changed the status quo for years.

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artists: Phil Jimenez, George Perez

Justice

Justice

The greatest villains of the DC Universe have united with a startling new plan: do more good for the world than the Justice League ever could! As the world begins to accept the seemingly-former villains as the new global protectors, the Justice League attempts to reveal the villains’ actual plan for world domination. Gorgeously illustrated by legendary artist Alex Ross, this series explores what it really means to fight for truth and justice.

Writer: Jim Krueger
Artist: Alex Ross

Justice League: Gods and Monsters

Justice League: Gods and Monsters

A prequel to the animated film of the same name, this alternate take on Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman finds the trio as a ruthless team imposing their unique brand of justice on their foes. Featuring Superman as the son of Zod and raised by immigrants, a vampiric Batman, and Wonder Woman as one of the New Gods.

Writers: Bruce Timm, J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Thony Silas

The New Frontier

Justice League: The New Frontier

This acclaimed miniseries depicts the heroes of the DC Universe at the twilight of the Golden Age and the dawn of the Silver Age. The heroes of World War II have retired, and a startling new generation has arisen. Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman have lasted through the anti-superhero sentiment of the 1950s, and are joined by new allies as they face the threats of a new era.

Writer/Artist: Darywn Cooke

Justice League: The Nail

Justice League: The Nail

In this classic Elseworlds story, a random nail causes a flat tire on the car of Jonathan and Martha Kent, preventing them from ever finding the crashed rocket of the Last Son of Krypton. How does the DC Universe turn out without the guiding force of Superman?

Writer/Artist: Alan Davis

JLA: Earth 2

JLA: Earth 2

Alexander Luthor, the sole surviving hero of the Antimatter universe makes contact with the Justice League, informing them of an alternate world ruled by the Crime Syndicate of Amerika, a twisted mirror-image version of the Justice League. Made up of Ultraman, Owlman, Superwoman, Power Ring and Johnny Quick, these villains rule their alternate Earth with an iron fist, but have their sights set on our own!

Writer: Grant Morrison
Artist: Frank Quitely

Kingdom Come

Kingdom Come

In the near future, the superheroes we know have retired, replaced by edgier, more violent vigilantes that cause almost as much chaos and destruction as the villains they fight. When the world comes to the brink of destruction, Superman and his old allies must come out of retirement for one last stand for truth and justice.

Writer: Mark Waid
Artist: Alex Ross

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