Definitely 'Batman: Year One'. It has a very realistic and down - to - earth take on his origin. It shows how he built his lair, got his gadgets, and started his nightly patrols. 'Zero Year' is also excellent. It updates his origin for a new generation, with new interpretations of his early battles and his rise to become Gotham's protector. And 'The Dark Knight Strikes Again' has elements of his origin in it too. It shows his continued evolution as a character and how his past still haunts him and drives his actions in the present.
A lot of fans consider 'Batman: Year One' to be the best. It's a classic comic that really digs into the nitty - gritty of Bruce Wayne's early days as Batman. It shows his determination and how he had to start from the bottom in a Gotham full of crime.
Most fans would probably say that 'Batman: Year One' is the best origin story. It's a very straightforward and engaging account of how Bruce Wayne becomes Batman. It shows his growth from a young man haunted by his parents' death to a vigilante fighting crime in Gotham. The story also does a great job of introducing key characters like Commissioner Gordon and setting up the overall tone of the Batman universe.
'A Death in the Family' is a significant story. It was a major event where Jason Todd, the second Robin, was killed. This story had a huge impact on Batman, making him more brooding and determined. It also showed the brutality of the Batman universe and how high the stakes can be for the characters.
I think the 'Man of Steel' origin story in modern comics is one of the best. It delved deeper into Krypton's society and politics before its destruction. This added more context to Superman's story and made his journey to Earth more meaningful. Also, his growth and development as a hero in this origin are well - presented.
The Batman comics considered canon usually include those directly written by key comic book authors and officially recognized by DC Comics. But it can vary depending on specific storylines and reboots.
The determination of which Batman comics are canon can be a bit complex. Generally, those published under the main DC continuity and officially recognized by DC Comics are considered canon.
I think 'Batman: Detective Comics' during the Rebirth era was excellent. It focused on Batman's detective skills a lot. There were some really cool cases he had to solve, and it also explored the relationship between Batman and his extended Bat - family. It was a great read for those who like the more detective - oriented side of Batman.
Some of the best would be 'Detective Comics #27'. It's the first appearance of Batman and already shows his detective nature as he goes after criminals. 'The Man Who Laughs' is also a good one. Batman has to stop the Joker's early reign of terror and uses his detective skills to track him down. These stories are important in the Batman detective story canon.
In my opinion, 'The Dark Knight Returns' has some great villain stories. It shows an older Batman facing off against old foes like the Joker in a more brutal and gritty way. The story is a great exploration of Batman's relationship with his villains as he comes out of retirement.
I think 'Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne' is a top - notch story. It was exciting to see Bruce Wayne's journey back to reclaim his identity as Batman after being lost in time. The story was filled with mystery and adventure.