The 'Sandman' series by Neil Gaiman is also highly regarded. It weaves together a rich tapestry of stories set in a dream world. The art varies throughout the series but is always beautifully crafted to bring the strange and wonderful world of dreams to life.
Definitely 'Batman: Year One'. It's a great origin story that really fleshes out Batman's early days. It shows his determination and the challenges he faced in starting his war on crime. And the art in it is really good at setting the mood of Gotham City.
I think 'Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth' is among the best. It has a really unique and somewhat disturbing take on Batman and the inmates of Arkham. The art style is also very distinct. Also, 'Batman: The Killing Joke' is a must - read. It delves deep into the relationship between Batman and the Joker, exploring their twisted dynamic and the Joker's origin in a very thought - provoking way.
Another great one is 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore. It's not just a superhero story but a deconstruction of the genre. It has complex characters like Rorschach and Dr. Manhattan. The plot is multi - layered with political and social undertones, and the graphic novel format is used to tell a story that couldn't be told as effectively in any other medium.
A notable entry is 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. It tells the story of her life growing up in Iran during a time of great political upheaval. The black - and - white art style is simple yet effective in conveying the emotions and the cultural context.
One of the best is 'All - Star Superman'. It beautifully captures the essence of Superman with its great art and engaging story. It shows Superman's selfless heroism and his relationship with Lois Lane in a very touching way.
Some of the well - known ones are 'The Dark Knight Returns' by Frank Miller. It redefined Batman in a darker, more aged and gritty way. Another great one could be 'Batman: Year One' which tells the origin story in a really engaging manner.
Some of the greatest Batman graphic novels include 'The Dark Knight Returns'. It's a classic that redefined Batman for a new era, with its gritty art and complex story of an older, more jaded Batman coming out of retirement. Another great one is 'Batman: Year One', which tells the origin story in a very noir - like and realistic way, showing how Batman and Commissioner Gordon both started in Gotham.
The 'Civil War' storyline which involves Spider - Man has some great graphic novels. It shows Spider - Man's struggle with choosing sides during the superhero civil war. It's a complex story that has a lot of political undertones and moral dilemmas for the characters.
Well, 'Spider - Man: Blue' is also highly regarded. It's a story that looks back at Peter Parker's relationship with Gwen Stacy in a very nostalgic way. The art is beautiful and it does a great job of exploring Peter's emotions, making it a must - read for any Spider - Man fan.