#12 - Watchmen

This Watchmen graphic novel is a collection of the entire story as originally released in comic book form. I will admit I haven't watched the recent film adaptation, but most comic books turned movie don't do much for me anyhow. This is no mere comic book either, it isn't some happy-go-lucky tale of a do-gooder or mutant/superpower fest, it is simply magnificent writing and execution. I'd say this is about as good as it gets when it comes to graphic novels and really stands in a league of it's own. Highly recommended.

#9 - Snake Eyes: Declassified

Ahh... Snake Eyes. Pretty much *THE* most central figure/hero/idol in my life from age 4 onward. My love for just about any other character in any form (music, film, comics, books, cartoons, etc.) is nowhere near the pedestal that on, alone, stands Snake Eyes. This collection of a 6-part mini-series by Devil's Due Publishing was an instant buy for me. But even with my devout affinity, I buy anything related to him with some trepidation. He is wildly popular, and as such he is one of the most exploited characters and in reality he has the least to cover. By nature he is an enigma with almost no identity, information or past. As you can imagine then, all of these types of tales are simply made up to either pander to the fans or try to give back-story where there really is none. Sometimes it comes off as a bad gimmick and occasionally, not often, someone has a unique angle that works. This is one of those times it worked... thankfully. It takes the parts and pieces that have come out over the years and adds just the right amount to them to form a cohesive story. For any fan this is not to be missed. Highly Recommended!

#50 - Bone

Bone: One Volume Edition by Jeff Smith is the complete collection of 13 years of the comic books in one massive black and white tome. I bought this a few years back when it was rarer than hen's teeth and prices were astronomical, although I found mine for cover price by chance, however now it has been reprinted and easily found. I've read and re-read this one quite a few times and it is just a great journey that puts a smile on my face every time. Following the Bone cousins and their individual quirks through an epic adventure filled with humor and drama and excellent characters is a delight. Even at 1300 pages this is a must read for just about anyone and I could imagine any kid would love to have this tale read to them and following along the quest with the great artwork. Absolutely Recommended.

#17 - The Hedge Knight

After finishing Legend and still in the fantasy mood, but not enough for another series novel, I turned to George R. R. Martin's "The Hedge Knight" graphic novel/comic book. It is a prequel to the Song of Ice and Fire novels and very centered around the characters and the human side of fantasy and heroes which so often goes underdeveloped in favor of action and tales of love. The Hedge Knight is thicker than a comic book but slightly undersized for a graphic novel, however it is a great mix of dialogue and art that is a treat for any fan of the series or genre. Certainly wordy for the average comic book but easily worth it. Recommended.