Comic books are a huge part of my life. They've been my main reading material for as long as I can remember, and I see them as the perfect medley of two art forms: writing and drawing. Comic books are truly a higher art form, but it's almost daunting to think of where to exactly start, or it simply may not seem like your thing. Heck, breaking into any new medium can be extremely intimidating, not to mention tough! However, if there is someone or something to guide your way on those initial steps of discovery, it may not be as bad. With that in mind, this list is my top five comics for beginners. If you read these, I promise you'll start visiting your local comic shop once a week like yours truly.
1. "Hawkeye" by Matt Fraction with art by David Aja, Matt Hollingsworth, and others
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There is a lot that can be said about "Hawkeye," but I would not be able to do this wonderful series its proper justice. Guided by the genius scribe Matt Fraction, the Avenging Archer is seen on the "mundane" days when he isn't saving the world as an Avenger, where he would normally stand toe-to-toe with super soldiers, gods and Hulks. Witty dialogue, laugh-out-loud humor, and more touching character moments than you can shake an arrow at. Not to mention the beautiful art by comics veteran David Aja, who turns in some truly career-defining work here. Go read this book, people.
2. "Midnighter" by Steve Orlando with art by ACO, Stephen Mooney, and others
Oh man is "Midnighter" a special book. Coming out of DC Comics' "DC You" relaunch, which was aimed at attracting new readers (coincidence?), "Midnighter" centers around the titular hero as he makes an identity for himself as an openly gay, unapologetically violent superhero. Steve Orlando writes a Midnighter that is confident and unashamed of himself in ways that other heroes aren't, and it makes for a different kind of superhero story. ACO also takes the opportunity to experiment with his art style, which helps to make "Midnighter" a book that has a look wholly its own. Unapologetic, bold, memorable and most importantly, fun. Well worth your dollar.
3. "Saga" by Brian K. Vaughan with art by Fiona Staples
"Saga" is one of those creator-owned comic books where you just know its destined to be something truly special as soon as you read the first page of the first issue. Writer Brian K. Vaughan and breakout artist Fiona Staples craft a Romeo and Juliet story for the ages, complete with star-crossed lovers, warring races, twists, turns and complex characters that you can't help but love. Vaughan has written many stellar comic book series in his life, but "Saga" stands out as the absolute best. Vaughan's got a penchant for creating great characters who, even while being alien, feel human, which is enhanced by Fiona Staple's expressive and gorgeous artwork. If you like romance, epic adventure, and gut-wrenching character moments and drama, then do yourself a favor and read "Saga." Like, right now.
4. "Lazarus" by Greg Rucka with art by Michael Lark
Remember when I said "Saga" was one of those special creator owned books that you know is destined to be something special? Apply that same principle to Greg Rucka and Michael Lark's "Lazarus." Greg Rucka weaves an intricate web of political intrigue set in a post-apocalyptic world where warring families share (or steal) what was once the world we live in today. Following the point of view of Forever Carlyle, who acts as the Carlyle family's human weapon, or Lazarus, Rucka's story is perfect for fans of dark, political action stories such as the "Bourne Identity" series (although "Lazarus" is of a much darker and more complex, adult breed). Michael Lark's art is also home to some of the most dynamic and exciting action scenes in any comic book, which is what makes this a perfect first-read for fans attempting to break into the medium. If you want a book that truly makes you think, "Lazarus" may just be the comic for you.
5. "The Superior Foes of Spider-Man" by Nick Spencer with art by Steve Lieber
I've saved the best for last. If the other four entries in this list haven't hooked you, this one surely will. "The Superior Foes of Spider-Man" is, without a doubt, one of the finest comic book series ever crafted in the history of the medium. If the seedy, criminal underworld presented to us in "Goodfellas" met the "everything can and will go wrong" philosophy of "Seinfeld" and became a comic book, this would be that comic book. Nick Spencer's writing is laugh-out-loud on more than one occasion... and that's just on each page! You also can't forget Steve Lieber's expressive and hilarious art. Physical comedy is tough even for acting, but Lieber makes it look as if he draws this perfectly in his sleep. Five of Spider-Man's most incompetent and most lovable idiots unite to headline a team book where absolutely everything goes wrong, and it is perfect, charming comedic gold. Please. Read this book.
