Author: Frank Miller
Publisher: DC Comics
Year Published: 1996
Cost: $11.69
Other Bibliographic Information:
ISBN:1-563-89342-8
ISBN13:978-1-563-89342-1
Reading Level:6
Interest Level:9+
Plot Summary:
It is ten years after an aging Batman has retired and Gotham City has sunk deeper into decadence and lawlessness. Now as his city needs him most, the Dark Knight returns in a blaze of glory. Joined by Carrie Kelly, a teenage female Robin, Batman takes to the streets to end the threat of the mutant gangs that have overrun the city. And after facing off against his two greatest enemies, the Joker and Two-Face for the final time, Batman finds himself in mortal combat with his former ally, Superman, in a battle that only one of them will survive. Batman and Superman engage in a powerful battle, and, when Queen shoots Superman using an arrowhead loaded with Batman's synthetic Kryptonite, Batman emerges the winner. However, Batman dies of a heart attack shortly after. Bruce Wayne’s secret identity as Batman quickly becomes public knowledge. At the funeral, Superman hears a heart beat inside the coffin and, after looking at Carrie, winks at her and leaves. Carrie later digs up Bruce’s body; it is revealed that he faked his death with the pill. Bruce Wayne now begins a new life, leading Robin, Green Arrow, and his new army through unexplored tunnels beyond the Batcave.
Issues for Challenges: Violence, Death, Ex-Catwoman tied up and beaten up by Joker (while dressed up in a Wonderwoman outfit for her Escort service business)
Evaluation:
Even if you are not a graphic novel reader or a graphic novel collector, you will love this graphic novel by Frank Miller. For me this is one of the "graphic novels" that redefined the superhero genre, and made these works worth reading. The Dark Knight Returns has excellent storywriting by Frank Miller as well as excellent artwork that readers will enjoy. The story and its illustrations may be a bit violent for younger readers.
Reader's Annotation:
Batman returns to crime fighting after a 10-year retirement. The Joker also returns to the scene later on. There’s even a new Robin, as well as a legendary battle between Batman and Superman. Who will win? Find out?
