Batman: Year One by Frank Miller

Miller, Frank. Illus. David Mazzucchelli. Batman: Year One DC Comics, 2005 ISBN 1-4012-0752-9
Plot
Intimate look on how Bruce Wayne became Batman and his relationship with Lieutenant Gordon. Before they became a duet they were individuals who wanted Gotham City to be clean of all the criminals. Gotham city is at its low with corrupted politicians, criminals lurking out of all corners, and prostitutes. Gotham is a typical Sin City that needs a hero. Gordon is out there fighting crime on his own while Bruce is discovering his role in the city that took his parents life. Batman is coming out protecting people, some politicians and police find him a threat while Gordon thinks that he is doing good but wants to know who the man behind the mask is. Underlying story, is of Catwomans appearance into the story line.
Critical evaluation
Great prose and old school style graphics create a Batman that would be loved by all generations. It is seen more from the point of view of Lieutenant Gordon rather than Batman it gives a more depth analysis of a strong relationship that keeps Gotham City afloat. Miller writes more thought dialogue rather than conversational thus creating a more of a connection between the two main characters. Both Wayne and Gordon have the same values and thoughts of Gotham City and are willing to put an effort to save it. Year One, gives details to Gotham City, Lieutenant Gordon, and Batman’s true colors with vivid graphics. Both want to help the city but need each other to keep from falling apart, neither could do it alone. Mazzuccheilli artwork captures the grittiness that is Gotham City. Some illustrations are black and white while others have some color but there is darkness to every illustration. The graphic novel gives a great background of the many Batman’s that follow.
Readers annotation
Bruce Wayne returns to a city that is overrun by criminals while Lieutenant Gordon has been living in it. Batman and Gordon must form a relationship to bring down Gotham City scum.
Information About the Author
Miller lays down the foundation of who is Batman in Year one. A ground breaking graphic novel.
Genre
Graphic Novel - Superhero
Curriculum Ties
English
Booktalking ideas
1) Gordons dialogue in pages 27-30
a. No Batman no Gordon? Discussion
2) Discuss Gotham City and its issues
a. Does there city reflect Gotham?
Reading level/interest age
T+: 13 and up
Why book included?
One of the most important books for Batman comics because it discusses Batman’s origins.