9 Fantastic Comic Books That Feature Beloved Characters

9 Fantastic Comic Books That Feature Beloved Characters

Fun Activities for Comic Fans

• Draw your own comic
• Create a cosplay of your favorite character
• Host a superhero movie night
• Podcast about your favorite series
• Have a board game night
• Make a short film based on your favorite comic
• Embrace your inner child with superhero-themed toys

8 Great Movies Based on Comics & Graphic Novels

1. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
2. I Kill Giants (2017)
3. Hellboy (2004)
4. Sin City (2005)
5. Catwoman (2004)
6. Watchmen (2009)
7. Ghost World (2001)
8. Kick-Ass (2010)

Why Read Comic Books?

For one thing, they're fast-paced. If you don't have a lot of free time, it might take months to get through a work of classic literature, but you could probably read an issue of a comic in a single sitting. It's also a great idea for artists to keep some comics around, because studying different styles of drawing can help you with your own work. They're also a great way to introduce children to reading. Like picture books, they have illustrations that can help kids figure out what words mean from context clues.

How to Get Into Comic Books

In Depth

In the world of comic books, it's not hard for readers to find memorable characters to root for. Some of the best comics feature superheroes, villains, and sidekicks that have captivated audiences for decades. These well-plotted, brilliantly-illustrated tales in serial form are addictively interesting, not least because of the work that their authors put into developing characters that are destined to become fan favorites.

Here, in no particular order, are some of the finest reads featuring heroes and heroines that are loved by readers all over the world.

In the #1 slot, we find Elliot S. Maggin and Louise Simonson's "Superman: The Daily Planet," illustrated by Curt Swan, Wayne Boring, and Al Plastino. In this compilation aimed at younger fans, readers get a glimpse into the history of Clark Kent and his fellow journalists working at the premier newspaper of Metropolis. A wonderful overview of Superman stories past and present, this volume serves as a perfect introduction for new initiates to the world of the popular superhero.

A wonderful overview of Superman stories past and present, this volume serves as a perfect introduction for new initiates to the world of the popular superhero.

At #2, we get "Heroes of the Galaxy" by Cavan Scott and Landry Q. Walker. If you've ever wondered how the characters of the "Star Wars" universe got their start, look no further than this collection of tales from the outer edges of the galaxy. In this work, the origin stories of C-3PO and R2D2 are explored, and well-loved characters from the film universe come to life once more, this time in pen and ink.

In the #3 slot is "James Bond: Origin" written by Jeff Parker and illustrated by Bob Q. You may think you're familiar with Bond. But how much do you really know about the suave, urbane operative known as 007? In "Origin," you'll be able to learn more about the slickest spy of all, including what he was up to during World War II. Fans of the classic films will adore this in-depth look at one of the most enduring secret agents of all time.

At #4 is Jeff Smith's "Smiley's Dream Book." From the illustrator who brought you the classic "Bone" series comes a tale featuring the iconic everyman. This time, however, children are invited to enjoy the adventures of Smiley Bone as he learns to count, sings with the birds, and basks in the sunshine in this simple, charming story for all ages.

This time, however, children are invited to enjoy the adventures of Smiley Bone as he learns to count, sings with the birds, and basks in the sunshine in this simple, charming story for all ages.

For #5, we get Devin Grayson and Ryan North's "Marvel Rising." When two legendary heroines join forces, an unstoppable bond is forged. It's a lucky thing, too, since the world is about to experience the wrath of a brand new supervillain who's dead set on destroying humanity. It's up to Squirrel Girl and Ms. Marvel to save the day and usher in a brand new era of Marvel superstars.

Coming in at #6 is Andrew Hussie's "Homestuck." It was the web comic that rocked the Internet. When "Homestuck" first came on the scene in 2009, readers from all over the world couldn't wait to follow the adventures of John Egbert and his friends. Now, Hussie's stories are collected in a new book with notes and insights from the author. Whether you're an O.G. fan or diving into the viral sensation for the first time, this is a must-read.

At #7 we find "The X Files: Season 10" by Joe Harris and Michael Walsh. The supernatural exploits of Agents Mulder and Scully continue, this time in graphic novel form. Fans of the cult TV series are sure to gobble up these new tales of aliens, UFOs, and conspiracy theories that pick up where the original show left off. Join the iconic duo as they travel into parts unknown and force even the most skeptical readers to believe in the impossible.

Join the iconic duo as they travel into parts unknown and force even the most skeptical readers to believe in the impossible.

For #8, we have "Superman Blue," written by Dan Jurgens and illustrated by Tom Grummett. The Man of Steel is in trouble. After the sun is briefly extinguished, Clark Kent finds himself regaining his powers by transforming into a totally different person. With not one but two evil maniacs after him, will our hero be able to regain everything that made him unique just in time to save the universe once more?

Finally, at #9, is "Doctor Who: The Lost Dimension" by Nick Abadzis and Cavan Scott. The Doctor is in, this time with a new cast of characters and a few old favorites tagging along for a ride in the Tardis. Whether you're a die-hard Whovian or are just entering the fantastical world of England's quirkiest sci-fi hero, you won't want to miss this compilation featuring strange encounters of the third kind, Daleks, and monsters from all four corners of the universe.