Well, 'The Dark Knight Returns' is definitely up there. It reinvented Batman for a new era. It shows an older, grittier Batman coming out of retirement. Also, 'Persepolis' is a great one. It's a coming - of - age story set against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution, giving a very personal and eye - opening view of that time and place.
One of the top ones is 'Sandman' by Neil Gaiman. It has a rich and complex world with an amazing cast of characters. The art and the storytelling blend together seamlessly. There are also many other greats in the top 50 like 'Bone' which has a charming and epic adventure story that is suitable for a wide range of ages.
Some of the top European graphic novels include 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. It's a powerful autobiographical work that gives insights into life in Iran during a complex political time. Another great one is 'Asterix' series which is filled with humor and adventure, set in a fictional version of ancient Gaul.
One of the top Aquaman graphic novels is 'The Trench'. It really delves into the darker and more mysterious aspects of Aquaman's world, especially the terrifying creatures in the Trench. Another great one is 'Throne of Atlantis' which features an epic battle that involves not only Aquaman but also the Justice League, making for a very exciting read.
One of the top Japanese graphic novels is 'Akira' by Katsuhiro Otomo. It's a classic that has influenced many other works with its cyberpunk setting and complex story. Another great one is 'Fullmetal Alchemist' by Hiromu Arakawa. It combines elements of alchemy, adventure, and deep moral themes. 'Naruto' by Masashi Kishimoto is also highly popular, following the journey of a young ninja.
Well, 'Man of Steel' is definitely on the list. It delves deep into Superman's origin story, giving readers a great understanding of who he is. 'Superman: Red Son' is really interesting as it explores what would happen if Superman had landed in the Soviet Union instead of the United States. And 'Action Comics' #1 is a classic that started it all for Superman in the graphic novel world.
There are many great ones in the top 25. 'Batman: The Long Halloween' is a fan favorite. It has an intricate mystery that unfolds over the course of a year, with great character development. 'Hush' is also popular as it brings together many of Batman's rogues gallery in an exciting and complex storyline that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
One of the top Fantastic Four graphic novels is 'Fantastic Four: The Coming of Galactus'. It's a classic that really showcases the team's dynamics as they face the all - powerful Galactus. The art is also quite remarkable, adding to the overall epic feel of the story.
Some of the top ones include 'Wonder Woman: The Hiketeia'. It's a great story that delves into Wonder Woman's moral code. Another is 'Wonder Woman: Earth One' which gives a fresh take on her origin story. And 'Wonder Woman: Blood' offers a darker and more complex view of the character.
One of the top Spider - Man graphic novels is 'Kraven's Last Hunt'. It's a classic that delves deep into the psyche of Kraven the Hunter as he has his final showdown with Spider - Man. Another great one is 'The Dark Knight Returns'. Oh, wait, that's Batman. For Spidey, 'Civil War' is also really good as it shows Spider - Man's struggle with choosing sides in the superhero civil war.
Some of the best girl graphic novels include 'Lumberjanes'. It has a group of girls at a summer camp facing all sorts of magical and mysterious creatures. The girls are all different in personality and skills, and it's a really fun and empowering read. Then there's 'Rainbow Rowell's 'Runaways'. Nico Minoru is a standout character. She's a goth - like girl with magical powers, and the story of the Runaways as a whole is filled with great character development for all the female characters involved.
Another notable 2017 thriller novel was 'Final Girls' by Riley Sager. It played with the concept of the 'final girl' from horror movies. The story follows a woman who was the sole survivor of a massacre years ago, and when similar killings start happening again, she has to face her past and figure out what's really going on. The plot was filled with suspense and unexpected revelations.