Collider has put together a beginner's guide to Batman comics, recommending key issues and graphic novels for readers new to the character's near-century-long history. The list highlights foundational stories that shaped Batman's mythology and introduced now-iconic elements of the Dark Knight universe.

– Detective Comics #27 (1939) — Bill Finger and Bob Kane's original tale introducing Batman via "The Case of the Chemical Syndicate"
– Batman: Year One — Frank Miller and Dave Mazzucchelli's definitive retelling of Batman's early crime-fighting days in Gotham
– Detective Comics #38 — introduces Robin (Dick Grayson), setting the template for future sidekicks
– Batman #1 — the character's first solo title, featuring the debuts of the Joker and Catwoman