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14. “Batman and Son”
You’re going to want to start with the trade Batman and Son, which features that titular, multi-issue story and a few one-offs (including the incredible Batman #666). This is the collection that introduces Batman’s son, Damian Wayne, as well as setting up a few other key elements, such as Bruce’s new love interest, Jezebel Jet, and the Three Ghosts of Batman. If you like what you read here, believe me, it only gets better.
13. “The Black Glove”
Batman: The Black Glove trade similarly features a few stories. One involves Batman meeting up with his old allies, the International Club of Heroes, when a murder occurs. The second sees Bruce being haunted by the Three Ghosts of Batman. This is when the larger picture starts to come into play, and we start to learn about the sinister forces conspiring against Bruce Wayne.
12. “The Resurrection of Ra’s al Ghul”
Now, “The Resurrection of Ra’s al Ghul” was a storyline that was not strictly a part of the Bat-Epic narrative. But Grant Morrison does pen a few parts with their Batman issues. This also brings Damian back into the fold. While it’s completely optional, it can really enhance one’s enjoyment of the saga.
11. “Batman: R.I.P.”
Batman: R.I.P. essentially serves as the finale of the first ‘act’ of Morrison’s saga. The Black Glove returns to destroy Bruce in mind, body, and spirit, pushing Batman well past his limitations. This story is crucial as it also doubles as a lead into Final Crisis (though Morrison leaves it just open enough for one to go straight into Batman and Robin).
10. Final Crisis
Final Crisis is indeed an incredibly complex story, but while Batman: R.I.P. leaves things a bit more up to interpretation, this epic is what really sets up the next phase of Bruce Wayne’s life. In addition to the main story, Morrison also wrote a few tie-in issues that highlight Batman’s struggles in this event. I’d say this is optional, but I think it’s worth the time investment.
9. “Batman Reborn”
“Batman Reborn” is the first chapter of Batman and Robin, showcasing the new Dynamic Duo that takes over in Bruce’s absence after Final Crisis. This story is a weird one, introducing wild new villains like Professor Pyg and the Circus of the Strange. But it’s the foundation on which this wild second phase of the Bat-Epic is built.
8. “Revenge of the Red Hood”
Jason Todd makes a return to prove he can be the protector Gotham needs in Batman and Robin’s second storyline. He gets himself a slick, new costume and a sidekick of his own and begins a crusade against the criminal underworld that ends up bringing a worse threat to the city. It’s a good, simple storyline that keeps the energy of the saga going.
