A Beginners Guide to Reading Comics

Ever thought about picking up a comic book and seeing what all the fuss is about? The world of comics is one of titanic proportions and knowing where to start can be a daunting prospect. Luckily for you, we have broken into that world and decided to pass on to you some tips and tricks that we discovered to help you break into the universe of glorious superheroes, nefarious villains and untold worlds with ease. So, sit back and let us take you through some of the initial steps that can prepare you for your first comic book. Here are a few tips on how to start reading comic books, plus our top comic book recommendations!

Deciding what to read

Before you start buying, you want to think about why you want to start collecting comic books, and what you want to get out of it. If you are simply looking for some new reading material then picking a comic should be easy, however, if you are interested in starting a comic book collection, then your search might be a little different. Whatever your reasons are for getting involved with comic books, deciding what to choose is easy, if for example, you are a fan of Marvel films then there is plenty of material out there for you to choose from; if you sit down once a week to watch The Walking Dead, then you might want to check out the comic book that it was based on. Whatever your interests, there is a comic book out there for you.

Where to get your comics from

When it comes to getting a hold of your comic books, the choice of vendors is plentiful. Jump online and check out sites like Ace Comics, Megacity Comics and mycomicshop.com for some great deals on all your favourites and even find some comic book subscription options. You also have the option of going into your local comic book shop and checking out what they have in stock or get them to order in what you are looking for, the hands-on approach is great for getting a feel for comic books and seeing what takes your fancy.

Keep an eye out for your local Forbidden Planet or any of the many independent stores near you. To track down those slightly more elusive comic books, try checking out some online comic book auctions or some well-known sites like eBay and Etsy for a good deal. Digital comic books are also easily available with subscriptions to apps such as Comixology, Marvel Comics and DC Universe Infinite, all of which are available on both Apple and Android devices.

A few more things to be aware of before jumping into the world of comic books:

Comics are often released with different cover art variants, some especially sort after by collectors.

You can buy trade hardbacks or paperbacks, these are usually entire story arcs compiled into a single book so you don’t have to go out and buy every single comic in the series to find out what happens.

There are a number of big-name comic book publishers that each have their different styles and tendencies. Finding out which one takes your fancy could save you a lot of time

Best comic books to read for beginners

Still feeling a little daunted? Check out these legendary comic books that are perfect for getting you started.

Umbrella Academy

When 43 superhuman babies are spontaneously born into the world with no prior warning or signs of pregnancy from their mothers, Mr Hargreeves, a world-renowned scientist and wealthy entrepreneur, immediately sets to work adopting seven of these extraordinary new-borns. The series follows these infants as they grow and learn to master their powers and eventually put them to use. Written by Gerard Way (of My Chemical Romance), Umbrella academy is an excellent foot in the door for anyone starting out with comics.

Hawkeye – Marvel

Doing a good job of avoiding what Marvel can often be guilty of, big, complicated plot continuities and crossovers with other series. Hawkeye is a fun-filled, action-packed winner for any comic book enthusiast whether you are just starting out or you are an experienced comic collector.

V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta is a politically driven fictional comic series set in a dystopian future where a totalitarian government has clamped it’s Iron fist down on the UK and it is up to V, the key protagonist, to bring down the oppressive power. This visually inspiring comic with a script of gold makes this a perfect entry point for anyone looking for a darker-styled comic series.

Bone

This series follows three cousins as they are removed from the comfort of their old lives and thrust into a strange and unfamiliar land, full of all manner of strange creatures and distorting forces. Bone explores all manner of darker subjects, but delivers them in a way that is universally palatable so they can be enjoyed by all.

Gotham Academy

Founded all the way back in 1934, there’s a reason this comic series is one of the longest-standing to date. Since its release, the DC universe has grown exponentially yet Gotham Academy stayed strong with its captivating original storyline without forcing you to question if a thousand plot points are actually links and crossover between other series. This tale of a school full of bizarre students is a must-read for anyone just starting out.

We hope that this can help you get started on your comic book journey, and don’t forget if you decide you need a quick comic book clear out, send us an email at info@webuybooks.co.uk with a list of what you want to sell and we’ll give you a bespoke price.