Explore the Best DC Comics Series to Read Now and Later

DC Comics has recently launched its celebrated line of DC’s Finest collections for 2024, drawing notable praise and impressive sales.Similar in concept to Marvel’s Epic Collections, DC’s Finest aims to revive classic tales in a digitally restored format that is accessible and affordable. Many of these narratives haven’t been printed in years, if at all, allowing these timeless stories to reclaim their spotlight.

The initial DC’s Finest selections present a unique blend of DC’s most iconic characters alongside some lesser-known figures, taking a refreshing departure from Marvel’s focus on marquee heroes. While DC is primarily recognized for its super-heroics, this line also highlights its diverse offerings across various genres, including science fiction. Navigating the vast selection of DC’s Finest collections can be challenging, so we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 collections to dive into now, as well as 5 additional titles to explore later.

1. Read Now: Superman: The Coming of Superman

Foundation of the DC Universe and Superhero Comics

It’s only fitting that DC’s Finest kicks off with Superman’s earliest adventures. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, these stories present a version of Superman that focuses on social justice, rather than the fantastical villains he later became known for, such as Lex Luthor.

The significance of these initial Superman tales in shaping contemporary pop culture is immense. Siegel and Shuster were trailblazers, crafting a new genre of fiction. Although Action Comics #1 is frequently reprinted, this collection offers readers a chance to explore the continuation of Superman’s narrative.

2. Read Later: Peacemaker: Kill for Peace

Rediscovering the Rise of an Unlikely Success

Following the success of James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad and the Peacemaker series on Max, this character is now considered one of DC’s most remarkable success stories. Initially known as the inspiration for the Comedian in Watchmen, Peacemaker has transformed into a fan favorite thanks to John Cena’s portrayal.

Kill for Peace compiles stories that outline Peacemaker’s origins and development, focusing on his early appearances in Charlton Comics. These narratives provide context for the character’s resurgence, revealing a darker interpretation by Paul Kupperberg in the 1980s that influenced elements of the recent series.

3. Read Now: The Flash: The Human Thunderbolt

The Birth of the Silver Age of Comics

The narratives within The Human Thunderbolt marked a pivotal moment in comic book history, rejuvenating a genre that had begun to falter.This collection is a vital piece of the Silver Age puzzle, showcasing how Barry Allen’s introduction helped revitalize superhero comics.

Delving into these stories, readers will find a blend of optimism mixed with a touch of Cold War unease, framed by the talents of creators such as John Broome and Carmine Infantino. Not only did this volume lay the groundwork for the Silver Age, but it also introduced several key members of the Flash’s rogues’ gallery, including Captain Cold and Gorilla Grodd.

4. Read Later: Batgirl: Nobody Dies Tonight

Cassandra Cain’s Groundbreaking Adventures

Batgirl: Nobody Dies Tonight is essential for anyone curious about Cassandra Cain. Mainstream audiences were recently introduced to her in 2020’s Birds of Prey film, which only scratched the surface of her character’s complexity. This collection highlights her early adventures as Batgirl, featuring significant interactions with the Bat-Family.

This collection embodies the mission of DC’s Finest by shedding light on less mainstream heroes like Batgirl, affirming their importance in the DC Universe alongside figures like Superman and Wonder Woman.

5. Read Now: Wonder Woman: Omens and Origins

Gail Simone’s Impactful Debut

Until Gail Simone took the helm, Wonder Woman had never had a woman as the regular writer of her titular series. Starting with the introduction of the “Manazons, ”Simone’s tenure was filled with vitality and adorned with groundbreaking storytelling.

Working alongside renowned artists, Simone’s contributions created a fresh dynamic for Wonder Woman that resonated with audiences and continues to be celebrated today. The DC’s Finest collections aim to reintroduce her impactful narratives to both new and returning readers.

6. Read Later: Metamorpho: The Element Man

A Closer Look at Superman’s Unique Ally

Metamorpho has significantly impacted the DC Universe since his debut 60 years ago. With appearances expected in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, this collection serves as an excellent introduction to the character.

Unlike other heroes of his era, Metamorpho’s darker origins embody some of the Marvel influence while still retaining the spirit of the Silver Age. His 60th anniversary is the perfect backdrop for this collection’s release, providing fans a gateway to engage with his early adventures.

7. Read Now: Justice Society of America: For America and Democracy

Showcasing the Pioneering Super Team’s Legacy

The Justice Society of America is a cornerstone of comic book history, making their early stories a fitting inclusion in DC’s Finest. Originating during the Golden Age of Comics, these adventures frequently featured the Society battling against both supervillains and the Axis Powers.

Among the key contents is the landmark All-Star Comics #3, their initial appearance. However, it is important to note that this collection notably omits issue #8, which introduced Wonder Woman, although no explanation has been provided for this exclusion.

This collection epitomizes the richness of stories that DC’s Finest represents, reaching back to the Golden Age while Marvel’s Epic Collections tend to restrict themselves to the Silver Age onwards.

8. Read Later: Superboy: The Superdog From Krypton

Unveiling Superman’s Loyal Companion

Krypto the Superdog, one of Superman’s best friends, makes his highly anticipated debut in this collection. These stories transport readers back to a more innocent era of comics, capturing Krypto’s charm.

Despite the initial absurdity surrounding his character, Krypto became an integral part of Superman’s lore. As audiences await his introduction in Gunn’s Superman film, this volume serves as a delightful primer on the Superdog from Krypton.

9. Read Now: Green Arrow: The Longbow Hunters

A Grim Take on the Emerald Archer

The Longbow Hunters signified a pivotal moment in Green Arrow’s evolution within the DC Universe. First released in the late 1980s, this collection showcases Mike Grell’s transformative vision, steering Green Arrow away from the superhero realm into a darker, more grounded narrative.

Through Grell’s lens, Ollie Queen emerges as a street-level hero committed to the citizens of Seattle. This dramatic shift not only redefined Green Arrow but also influenced the successful Arrow television adaptation, emphasizing the character’s importance in the broader DC narrative.

10. Read Later: Science Fiction: The Gorilla World

Exploring DC’s Science Fiction Legacy

DC’s Finest also shines a spotlight on the company’s diverse storytelling heritage with The Gorilla World, showcasing their explorations beyond the realm of superheroes. This collection features stories from various genres, particularly science fiction, where intelligent primates take center stage.

DC’s ability to adapt sci-fi themes stands as a testament to their versatile storytelling. The Gorilla World contains narratives that predate popular films like Planet of the Apes, featuring notable heroes such as Adam Strange. With a rich history spanning over 90 years, DC Comics illustrates that their legacy entails much more than just super-heroic adventures.

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