Batman Unauthorized: Vigilantes, Jokers, and Heroes in Gotham City (Smart Pop Series) - Softcover

Alan J. Porter; Chris Roberson; Jake Black

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1933771305 ISBN 13: 9781933771304

Publisher: BenBella Books, 2008

Synopsis

Batman Unauthorized explores Batman’s motivations and actions, as well as those of his foes. Batman is a creature of the night, more about vengeance than justice, more plagued by doubts than full of self-assurance, and more darkness than light. He has no superpowers, just skill, drive and a really well-made suit.

One of the most recognized superheroes ever created, Batman has survived through campy TV shows and films, through actors such as Adam West, Michael Keaton and Christian Bale. Batman Unauthorized: Vigilantes, Jokers, and Heroes in Gotham City covers expansive territory ranging from the silly to the solemn. Why is the Joker so good at pushing Batman’s buttons? What does Batman’s technology say about the times? Why are Batman’s villains crazier than average? And why is Batman the perfect, iconic American hero?

About this title

About the Author:

Dennis O’Neil is a former comic book writer and editor for Marvel Comics and DC Comics; wrote the novelization for the film Batman Begins; and is the author of Batman: Shaman and Batman: Sword of Azrael. He wrote the main Batman title in the 1970s and 1980s and is the former group editor for the Batman family of books. He lives in Nyack, New York.

From School Library Journal:

Adult/High School—The appeal of Batman waxes and wanes, but he has doubtless been one of the most popular superheroes in recent years, with the upcoming movie generating even more buzz. This entry looks at Batman as a literary figure worthy of several critical essays. Eighteen authors, including those with backgrounds in journalism, editing, and academia, contribute short critical essays focused on the many aspects of the superhero through the years. Though each writer has a particular point of view, there are several points on which they do agree: Batman Begins was the best of the movies, the campy TV series nearly ruined the character, Batman is even darker than many casual observers realize, and Frank Miller made him darker still. These recurring themes give the book cohesion, even though it is doubtful that any but the most ardent fan will read it from cover to cover. A particularly clever essay looks at the cost of being Batman, estimating the value of the costume, the Batcave, the Batmobile, and more as just under $300 million. This book would be a good addition where superheroes are popular, as well as a clever alternative to more dry, dusty literary criticism for those doing assignments.—Jamie Watson, Harford County Public Library, MD
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About this edition

• Publisher: BenBella Books
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 1933771305
• ISBN 13: 9781933771304
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 224
• Editor: Dennis O'Neil