The Calculator plans to exact his revenge on Oracle by first unleashing a nanovirus upon the citizens of Gotham. What does that do, you ask? Well, it’d turn everyone into mindless techno-zombies. Doesn’t sound like much fun, eh? For phase two of his plan, the Calculator plans on eliminating everyone close to Oracle – including Batgirl.
BATGIRL #10, courtesy of Bryan Q. Miller and Lee Garbett, hits 5/12.
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Happy Monday, Source gang. Hope the weekend was pleasant and restful.
Let me be realistic here: We read a lot of comics on a day-to-day basis. Lots of great, exciting stories involving our favorite characters and some new and engaging ones as well. Every once in a while, you come across an issue that really cuts to the core of what made you get into comics -- and what kept you reading. THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #33 is one such comic.
JMS crafts a fun, poignant and entertaining story into one issue, masterfully illustrated by the very talented Cliff Chiang.
Sometimes it's easy to lose titles in the shuffle, with so many books coming out every week. But we wanted to steer you back to this one, because it's certainly a treat. We caught up with Cliff to share some of his thoughts on the issue and he was kind enough to share some of his pencils and inks.
Be warned, though. Some spoilers below. But why not just run out and pick up the issue? We'll wait. Click below for some lovely Cliff Chiang artwork and insight...
I really enjoyed drawing Batgirl in her original black and blue costume, and using the George Perez design for Wonder Woman. The story needed to feel classic, iconic, and somewhat timeless in that regard. However, JMS smartly updated a lot of the references so it's not a "flashback" issue per se. I like the idea that comics continuity is constantly happening and refreshing itself.
I was really looking forward to drawing the women in their civilian clothes; you never see enough of that in comics! Fashion is such a specific thing, and in a case like this, you can't just wing it. Unlike the costumes, the fashion had to be contemporary, or you risk it just being fake and bland. My fiancée was kind enough to round up a great selection of au courant dresses, and I picked the 3 that fit their personalities. So Wonder Woman, Zatanna and Batgirl are actually wearing designer dresses and shoes.
In a story like this, you can really go wild with little touches. Given the "Sex and The City" vibe of the script, I tried to inject as much of the
feeling of my hometown of New York as I could. From the taxis and the advertisements, to the karaoke bar, to the diner with the foil covered plants -- these are some of the things I associate with New York nightlife. On their own the details are minor, but the cumulative effect is a fully-realized, believable world, and you can allow yourself to be carried away by the emotional story.
The penultimate scene was probably the most intimidating for me to draw. I had to remind readers of Brian Bolland's brilliant work on "The Killing Joke" despite our vastly different styles, as well as inter-cut with flashback panels. I borrowed a trick I saw from a John Romita Jr. comic and staggered the panels to give a sense of the "camera" switching back and forth. I rarely do much rendering or cross-hatching, but for the double-page spread, it felt right, to help shock the reader with a different kind of reality. I'm really proud of how the book turned out and hope the readers feel as strongly about it as I do.
Eisner-nominee and incoming WONDER WOMAN writer J. Michael Straczynski pairs with GREENDALE artist Cliff Chiang for a special one-off story featuring the Amazon Princess and Zatanna, as the duo enjoy a nice, peaceful evening on the town that surely won't be interrupted by any kind of superheroic hijinks...
BRAVE AND THE BOLD #33 hits tomorrow.
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You didn't think we'd stop at BRIGHTEST DAY, did you? Probably not, since we've made a habit of showing these solicits in this space for a while now. So, for a sneak peek at what's coming down the pike for The Dark Knight and co., click below. I didn't mean for that to rhyme.
BATMAN #701
On sale JULY 14 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art and cover by TONY DANIEL
Grant Morrison and Tony Daniel re-team to tell the exciting 2-part, untold tale of Bruce Wayne and his adventures between BATMAN R.I.P. and FINAL CRISIS! What happened to Batman – and Dr. Hurt, for that matter – after the devastating events at the climax of R.I.P.? And what secrets within this story point toward THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE?
BATMAN: THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE #4
On sale JULY 21 • 4 of 6 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by CAMERON STEWART
Cover by ANDY KUBERT
1:25 variant cover by CAMERON STEWART
The most anticipated series of 2010 continues!
Grant Morrison’s can’t-miss Batman story rolls on as Bruce Wayne’s next stop on his amazing journey through time brings him to the Wild West – but will he escape alive? Artist Cameron Stewart (BATMAN AND ROBIN) joins Morrison to take The Dark Knight on a ride!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN AND ROBIN #14
On sale JULY 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by FRAZER IRVING
Cover by FRANK QUITELY
1:25 variant cover by FRAZER IRVING
In “Batman Must Die!” part 2 of 3, one of our heroes lies near death! Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne enter the ultimate, blood-soaked battle against two foes who almost destroyed the original Batman. Are the new Dynamic Duo up to this final confrontation with absolute evil? If they can’t truly bond as a team, they’re dead!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN: ODYSSEY #1
On sale JULY 7 • 1 of 6 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by NEAL ADAMS • Art and cover by NEAL ADAMS • 1:25 sketch variant cover by NEAL ADAMS
Legendary Batman artist and comics pioneer Neal Adams returns to Gotham City with the first issue of two 6-part miniseries!
In this electrifying new story, The Dark Knight faces a series of seemingly unrelated challenges as villains and allies old and new push him to his limits like never before. After Batman discovers a dark and mysterious matrix being superimposed over his life, what sort of life-changing voyage must he embark on to escape from this powerful and insidious force? Be here to find out as Adams writes and illustrates his next masterpiece Batman tale!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
RED HOOD: LOST DAYS #2
On sale JULY 7 • 2 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by JUDD WINICK
Art by PABLO RAIMONDI
Cover by billy tucci
Learn the secrets of Jason Todd’s hidden past! Writer Judd Winick and artist Pablo Raimondi continue revealing how the former Boy Wonder went from child sidekick to murderous villain! Newly resurrected and loose in the world, Jason finds himself alone, angry and seeking revenge. But what will happen when his blood lust takes him back to the streets of Gotham City? You’ve only seen pieces of the story before now!
DETECTIVE COMICS #867
On sale JULY 28 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by DAVID HINE
Art by SCOTT MCDANIEL and ANDY OWENS
Cover by PETER NGUYEN
The four-part epic “BATMAN: IMPOSTERS” begins with this thirty-page adventure!
A call to arms has gone out through Gotham City, and normal, everyday citizens are being drafted into a bizarre battle. Will they side with vigilante justice or join the cause of chaos and anarchy? Only The Dark Knight can rein in the terror created by the villain known only as The Imposter. But what is The Imposter’s true motivation for this gang war — and what’s hiding behind his rictus grin? Be here to find out!
BATMAN: THE WIDENING GYRE #6
Resolicit • On sale JULY 28 • 6 of 6 • 56 pg, FC, $4.99 US
Written by KEVIN SMITH
Art by WALT FLANAGAN & art thibert
Cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZ
1:25 Variant cover by GENE HA
The finale to Kevin Smith and Walt Flanagan’s Batman tale! Thanks to Silver St. Cloud, Bruce is trying to learn how to trust people. But Batman is an integral part of who he is, so how can he really trust anyone? Batman even has a run-in with Catwoman because of his relationship with Silver. And when he decides to put all of his trust into someone, will he be rewarded...or punished? Don’t miss this extra-sized finale to volume one of WIDENING GYRE!
Retailers please note: This issue is resolicited. All previous orders are cancelled. This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN BEYOND #2
On sale JULY 21 • 2 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by ADAM BEECHEN
Art by JOHN STANISCI
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
A mysterious new threat targets the original Batman’s villains, and only Terry McGinnis – the Batman of the future – has a chance of finding and stopping him. But of a Catwoman stalks into the picture, Terry is torn between the lady she appears to be and the deadly tiger she might turn out to be!
RED ROBIN #14
On sale JULY 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA
Art and cover by MARCUS TO & RAY MCCARTHY
Red Robin vs. Robin! When Damian discovers that he’s on Red Robin’s potential “hit list” of bad guys to apprehend, the new Robin goes about proving how wrong Tim was by trying to beat the crap out of him! Meanwhile, Tim’s plans begin to flourish, starting with a new role at the Wayne Foundation and a new love life.
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #14
On sale JULY 28 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI • Art and cover by GUILLEM MARCH
Just as the girls begin working as a team, a new threat destroys everything! Can they reunite in time – or will this be the end of the Sirens?
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #46
On sale JULY 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by KEVIN VANHOOK • Art and cover by TOM MANDRAKE
Surrounded by a cavalcade of corpses, and with the mad Professor Combs running free, Batman and the vampire Dimeter find themselves outmatched and outnumbered by the ravenous undead. This looks like a job for Superman!
AZRAEL #10
On sale JULY 21 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by DAVID HINE
Art by jeremy haun
Cover by guillem march
New writer David Hine (ARKHAM REBORN, DETECTIVE COMICS) makes his AZRAEL debut in part 1 of the 4-part “The Killer of Saints!” Members of religious cults are being murdered in grotesque reenactments of the martyrdom of Christian saints. Each victim holds part of a centuries-old secret that, once revealed, will alter the course of human history.
BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #14
On sale JULY 21 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Co-feature written by IVAN BRANDON
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN & DEREK FRIDOLFS
Co-feature art by ramon bachs
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
The anticipated sequel to HEART OF HUSH is here! Paul Dini and Dustin Nguyen deliver an exciting continuation of the saga of Tommy Elliot and Bruce Wayne! Cracking under the strain of living as “Bruce Wayne,” Elliot plans his final, murderous revenge on Dick Grayson, Selina Kyle and other members of Wayne’s extended network of friends and allies. Will Dick and Damian be enough to thwart Tommy’s plans – or will the end of Hush require the return of Bruce Wayne?
And in the new Two-Face co-feature, writer Ivan Brandon picks up where the trial of Two-Face left off in the Manhunter co-feature! Despite his innocence, Two-Face is a man on the run, and discovers that even when he thinks he has nothing left to lose, he hasn’t quite hit rock bottom!
OUTSIDERS #31
RESOLICIT • On sale JULY 28 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by DAN DIDIO
Art and cover by PHILIP TAN & JONATHAN GLAPION
“The Great Divide” continues! Separated by two continents and personal differences, the two Outsiders teams are pushed to their limits. Black Lightning, Owl Man and newest member Freight Train take on the combined might of Chemomorpho while Geo-Force and his army invade a neighboring country – only to come face-to-face with that country’s defender, The Olympian!
This issue is resolicited. All previous orders are canceled.
BATGIRL #12
On sale JULY 14 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by LEE GARBETT & JONATHAN GLAPION
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
It’s the end of Batgirl’s first year as a member of the Bat-family, and the stakes couldn’t be higher! Stephanie Brown must risk her life to break into the Calculator’s secret lair in an attempt to save Oracle and all of Gotham City from his techno-plague. And finally, the Calculator’s daughter accepts her true destiny!
The conclusion to "Batgirl Rising" begins here with part one of the four-part "Flood" storyline, from writer Bryan Q. Miller and artist Lee Garbett. A string of bizarre, technology-based "suicides" gets the attention of both Batgirl and Oracle, but for very different reasons. And the two heroes will soon realize that they're the real targets of a nefarious madman hellbent on revenge. Just another day for Batgirl? Not quite.
BATGIRL #9 hits 4/14.
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As promised, here are all the Bat-related titles hitting your shops in June.
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM
ONE-SHOTS • RIDDLER on sale JUNE 2 • HARLEY QUINN on sale JUNE 9 • MAD HATTER on sale JUNE 16
KILLER CROC on sale JUNE 23 • CLAYFACE on sale JUNE 30 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM: THE RIDDLER #1 • Written by PETER CALLOWAY • Art by CLAYTON HENRY • Cover by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM: HARLEY QUINN #1 • Written by JAMES PATRICK • Art by JOE QUINONES • Cover by CLAUDIO CASTELLINI
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM: MAD HATTER #1 • Written by LANDRY WALKER • Art and cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZ
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM: KILLER CROC #1 • Written by MIKE RAICHT • Art by DAVID YARDIN • Cover by FRANCESCO MATTINA
THE JOKER’S ASYLUM: CLAYFACE #1 • Written by KEVIN SHINICK • Art and cover by KELLEY JONES
Top creators lend their talents to a new installment of THE JOKER’S ASYLUM – a special month-long, weekly series of one-shots starring the greatest villains in Batman’s rogues gallery.
Each issue is narrated by The Joker and tells a special stand-alone story that gives readers an inside look into the insane lives of The Dark Knight’s greatest adversaries! This batch of tense tales spotlights The Riddler, Harley Quinn, Mad Hatter, Clayface and Killer Croc! Can you stand the madness?!
BATMAN: THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE #3
On sale JUNE 16 • 3 of 6 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art by YANICK PAQUETTE • Cover by ANDY KUBERT • 1:25 variant cover by YANICK PAQUETTE
The most anticipated miniseries of 2010 continues! As Bruce Wayne’s astonishing journey through time continues in this 6-issue miniseries, The Dark Knight travels to the eras of high seas thievery! Mastermind writer Grant Morrison’s most ambitious project to date continues to chronicle the return of the original man behind the cape and cowl – Bruce Wayne! Featuring the dynamic artwork of YANICK PAQUETTE.
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
RED HOOD: LOST DAYS #1
On sale JUNE 2 • 1 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by JUDD WINICK • Art by PABLO RAIMONDI • Cover by FRANCESCO MATTINA
1:25 variant cover by BILLY TUCCI
Judd Winick (BATMAN: UNDER THE HOOD) returns to write the adventures of Jason Todd in this special 6-part epic exploring the lost days of this misunderstood character. Learn what secret events led Jason on his eventual path of death and destruction. Guest-starring Ra’s al Ghul and Talia with amazing artwork by Pablo Raimondi (BATTLE FOR THE COWL: THE UNDERGROUND, X-Factor).
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN BEYOND #1
On sale JUNE 30 • 1 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by ADAM BEECHEN • Art by RYAN BENJAMIN • Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
1:25 variant cover by J.H. WILLIAMS III
Terry McGinnis – the Batman of the future – and an elderly Bruce Wayne – the original Batman – are the sworn protectors of Neo-Gotham. But when someone targets The Dark Knight’s old foes, the new Batman must begin a case that reaches back into Bruce Wayne’s past and puts Terry’s future directly in danger!
Don’t miss the long-awaited return of the popular Batman Beyond franchise in this 6-issue adventure from Emmy Award-nominated animation writer Adam Beechen (Batman: The Brave and the Bold) and artist Ryan Benjamin (BATMAN & THE OUTSIDERS). And be sure to check out the SUPERMAN/BATMAN ANNUAL #4 from writer Paul Levitz and artist Renato Guedes starring the Batman Beyond characters!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN AND ROBIN #13
On sale JUNE 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by FRAZER IRVING
Cover by FRANK QUITELY
1:25 variant cover by FRAZER IRVING
Writer Grant Morrison is joined by artist Frazer Irving (BATMAN: RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE) for the first chapter of a 3-part epic!
Thomas Wayne – a man believed murdered over 20 years ago – has returned with an incredible tale to tell, and he’s claiming the entire Wayne fortune! He’s slyly demanding that Bruce Wayne must return if Bruce wishes to oppose the claim! Plus, the long-awaited return of the ultimate Batman villain!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
DETECTIVE COMICS #866
On sale JUNE 23 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by DENNIS O’NEIL
Art and cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
1:25 “DC 75 Anniversary” Variant cover by WALTER SIMONSON
Continuing the spirit of celebration from BATMAN #700, comics legend Dennis O’Neil’s returns to the Batcave in this stand-alone, 40-page issue! O’Neil spins a tale of the Dick Grayson Batman intertwined with those classic days when Batman and Robin, the Boy Wonder, patrolled the mean streets of Gotham City!
And come back next month for the return of The Question and Batwoman!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #13
On sale JUNE 23 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Co-feature written by MARC ANDREYKO
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN & DEREK FRIDOLFS
Co-feature art by JEREMY HAUN
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
Hush finally breaks his silence and decides to make life difficult for Batman. What is Tommy Elliot’s gameplan? And what will Bruce Wayne’s return mean for the man who’s been masquerading as Bruce all these months?
Also, the final, thrilling installment of the Manhunter co-feature is here! Kate confronts a vicious enemy who has infiltrated her personal life. Everyone she cares about is in danger, and so is her secret identity! Can she protect her loved ones? And when it’s all said and done, will she decide to stay in Gotham City – or return to the relative peace of Los Angeles?
BATGIRL #11
On sale JUNE 9 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by LEE GARBETT & JONATHAN GLAPION
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
In part 3 of “The Flood,” Oracle faces off against the Calculator, while Batgirl is forced to team up with the Calculator’s daughter in an attempt to save the citizens of Gotham City from a crippling techno-plague. But who will save Batgirl from an infected and rampaging Man-Bat?
RED ROBIN #13
On sale JUNE 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA
Art and cover by MARCUS TO & RAY MCCARTHY
Fabian Nicieza joins RED ROBIN as the new regular writer! A surge of organized mobs spreads across Gotham City like a virus! Who are The Socials and what is their mysterious agenda in moving young people across the city in self-organizing crowds? Is it mind-control or simply youth boredom? What starts as fun and games becomes deadly serious and leads to an unexpected confrontation between Red Robin and Robin!
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #13
On sale JUNE 30 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Art and cover by GUILLEM MARCH
Poison Ivy’s new romance hits some turbulence as she discovers something weird going on around the office! She loves her job and doesn’t want anything to get in the way – not even her new boyfriend! But when Ivy discovers an old ally is behind everything, will she turn against her employers? And what do the other Sirens think of Ivy’s odd romance and even odder choices regarding her job?
OUTSIDERS #31
On sale JUNE 30 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by DAN DIDIO
Art and cover by PHILIP TAN & JONATHAN GLAPION
WANTED: The Outsiders – dead or alive! The Outsiders are officially enemies of the state and on the run for their lives. Can Geo-Force and Black Lightning bring the team back together in time to prove their innocence? And what will become of the Eradicator’s role in Markovia? Will he help the Outsiders? Or will he be the one responsible for their deaths? Be here to find out!
AZRAEL #9
On sale JUNE 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA • Art by RAMON BACHS & JOHN STANISCI
Cover by FRANCESCO MATTINA
In Europe, a cult has turned Azrael into the host for something evil, but can his faith overcome the possession? As the walls of sanity begin crumbling around Michael Lane, only his enemy the White Ghost can save him.
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #45
On sale JUNE 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by KEVIN VANHOOK • Art and cover by TOM MANDRAKE
“Batman vs. the Undead” continues as Batman fights alongside the vampire Dimeter to stop a horde of reanimated corpses. But the living dead are just a distraction by the evil Professor Herbert Combs, who intends to unleash black Voodoo magic upon the world. The Dark Knight may need a little help from his friends…
Writer Bryan Q. Miller and artist Talent Caldwell kick off a crossover with RED ROBIN, as Tim Drake returns to Gotham Cit. But who does he find in the Batcave? None other than Stephanie Brown, the new Batgirl. And when Ra's al Ghul attacks one of Batman's closest allies, Red Robin and Batgirl will have to put the past aside to save Leslie Thompkins's life. Continued in Red Robin #10.
BATGIRL #8 hits 3/10.
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Bruce Wayne returns, Andy Clarke joins BATMAN AND ROBIN, the Riddler continues to muck up the works for Batman and much more in May. Click below for covers and solicit info for all the Bat-titles.
BATMAN: THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE #1-2
Issue #1 on sale MAY 12 • Issue #2 on sale MAY 26 • 48 pg (#1), 40 pg (#2) FC, $3.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Issue #1 art by CHRIS SPROUSE; Issue #2 art by FRAZER IRVING
Covers by ANDY KUBERT • Issue #1 1:25 variant cover by CHRIS SPROUSE
Issue #1 1:200 Sketch variant cover by ANDY KUBERT • Issue #2 1:25 variant cover by FRAZER IRVING
The most anticipated series of 2010 is here! Superstar writer Grant Morrison tackles his most ambitious project to date with THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE, a special six-part series that chronicles the return of the original man behind Batman’s cape and cowl! Each issue spans a different era of time and features the dynamic artwork of one of today’s artistic juggernauts, starting with Chris Sprouse (TOM STRONG) on the extra-sized issue #1 and Frazer Irving (SEVEN SOLDIERS: KLARION) on the 40-page issue #2!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with multiple covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN AND ROBIN #12
On sale MAY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by ANDY CLARKE & SCOTT HANNA
Cover by FRANK QUITELY
1:25 variant cover by ANDY CLARKE
All is revealed in this final installment of “Batman vs. Robin” – the identity of the Domino Killer, the terrifying secret of the dominoes, and the shocking truth behind El Penitente! All of this, plus the surprising return of a fanfavorite character!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers.
Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN #699
On sale MAY 12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by TONY DANIEL
Art by GUILLEM MARCH
Cover by TONY DANIEL
Only one month until BATMAN #700! As the anniversary issue nears, Dick Grayson’s life as the Dark Knight inches dangerously closer to the edge! With the Falcone crime family and The Riddler creating havoc in Gotham City, Batman is completely occupied with no idea what shocking surprise awaits him in the near future!
DETECTIVE COMICS #865
On sale MAY 26 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by DAVID HINE
Co-feature written by GREG RUCKA
Art by JEREMY HAUN
Co-feature art by CULLY HAMNER
Cover by CLIFF CHIANG
Batman spends the night in the bowels of Arkham Asylum attempting to uncover its mysteries. Plus, the horrifying fate of Black Mask is at last revealed! In the co-feature, The Question discovers the shocking true identity of the man responsible for the human trafficking and gunrunning.
BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #12
On sale MAY 19 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Co-feature written by MARC ANDREYKO
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN & DEREK FRIDOLFS
Co-feature art by JEREMY HAUN
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
Batman deals with the aftermath of Zsasz’s crime wave when a new threat walks upon Gotham City’s stage! And in the co-feature, an enemy Kate made in both the courtroom and on the streets of Gotham has decided to make his fight a little more personal…
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #12
On sale MAY 26 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Art and cover by GUILLEM MARCH
Poison Ivy’s new job as a research technician may have her working undercover, but that doesn’t mean a new threat to Gotham City will stay secret! Dr. Pamela Isley is spotlighted in this special issue of GOTHAM CITY SIRENS.
AZRAEL #8
On sale MAY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA • Art by RAMON BACHS & JOHN STANISCI
Cover by FRANCESCO MATTINA
Azrael follows a deadly series of attacks on Order of Purity members to Europe where he confronts members of a cult who escaped Gotham City in the 2009 Bat-family Annuals. To learn secrets behind his cursed uniform, will Azrael be forced to act as the host for the resurrected Eighth Deadly Sin of Man?
BATGIRL #10
On sale MAY 12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER • Art by LEE GARBETT & TREVOR SCOTT
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
In “The Flood” part 2 of 4, the Calculator plans to exact his revenge on Oracle by first unleashing a nanovirus upon the citizens of Gotham City that will turn them into mindless techno-zombies! The next step in his plan? Killing everyone close to her – including Batgirl!
OUTSIDERS #30
On sale MAY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by DAN DIDIO
Art by PHILIP TAN & JONATHAN GLAPION
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
Due to their alliance with New Krypton, the Outsiders are “enemies of the world,” and with Alfred unable to help, Black Lightning and team must turn to an unlikely source for aid in returning back into the United States. But the dangers there may be greater than the ones they face now.
RED ROBIN #12
On sale MAY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by CHRISTOPHER YOST
Art and cover by MARCUS TO & RAY MCCARTHY
Every single moment of the last year has led to this fight between Red Robin and Ra’s al Ghul. Who has Ra’s been talking to all this time in the shadows? Why was Lucius Fox so desperate to find Tim Drake? And why was Tim so certain that Bruce Wayne is alive in issue #1? All questions are answered.
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #44
On sale MAY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by KEVIN VANHOOK • Art and cover by TOM MANDRAKE
“Batman vs. the Undead” begins here! When Doctor Herbert Combs escapes from Arkham Asylum, he travels to New Orleans in an attempt to once again raise the dead. The only ones who can stop him are Dimeter – a vampire with a score to settle – and The Dark Knight. Can Batman join this creature of the night in order to stop Combs’ mad plan?
The situation is dire as Batgirl and Robin must venture into Devil's Square in an attempt to save Batman before Roulette's "most dangerous game" turns deadly, courtesy of writer Bryan Q. Miller and artist Lee Garbett. BATGIRL #7 hits 2/10.
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Why stop with BRIGHTEST DAY, right? Click below for a look at all the Batman-related titles shipping in April, including BATMAN AND ROBIN, STREETS OF GOTHAM, BATGIRL and OUTSIDERS.
BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM — MADNESS HC
Advance-solicited • On sale June 23 • 112 pg, FC, $19.99 US
Written by SAM KIETH • Art and cover by SAM KIETH
An original Batman graphic novel set in Arkham Asylum from Sam Kieth, creator of THE MAXX!
It is the most feared house in all of Gotham City. It contains the worst that the city has to offer. It is the place The Dark Knight’s most dangerous and psychotic foes call home. Writer/artist Sam Kieth, creator of THE MAXX and artist of the acclaimed miniseries LOBO: HIGHWAY TO HELL, invites you to spend 24 hours in Arkham Asylum – the most unsettling house in the DC Universe.
BATMAN AND ROBIN #11
On sale APRIL 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by ANDY CLARKE & SCOTT HANNA
Cover by FRANK QUITELY
1:25 Variant cover by ANDY CLARKE
“Batman vs. Robin” part 2 of 3! The Dynamic Duo fight it out in the ultimate duel to the finish. Meanwhile, Robin’s mother, Talia al Ghul, sends an old adversary of Dick Grayson’s to complete the job that her son may not be able to stomach!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN: THE WIDENING GYRE #6
On sale APRIL 28 • 6 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by KEVIN SMITH
Art by WALTER FLANAGAN
Cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZ
1:25 Variant cover by GENE HA
Kevin Smith and Walt Flanagan’s Batman tale comes to its startling end! Thanks to Silver St. Cloud, Bruce is trying to learn how to trust people. But Batman is an integral part of who he is, so how can he really trust anyone? Batman even has a run-in with Catwoman because of his relationship with Silver. And when he decides to put all of his trust into someone, will he be rewarded...or punished?
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
BATMAN #698
On sale APRIL 14 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by TONY DANIEL
Art by GUILLEM MARCH
Cover by TONY DANIEL
Only two months until BATMAN #700! As the landmark issue nears, Dick Grayson’s life as The Dark Knight heats up in a big way. With Black Mask out of the way for good, the Falcone crime family attempts to fill that void – with no regard for the safety of Gotham City’s citizens! And what’s going on with the Riddler?
DETECTIVE COMICS #864
On sale APRIL 28 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by DAVID HINE
Co-feature written by GREG RUCKA
Art by JEREMY HAUN
Co-feature art by CULLY HAMNER
Cover by CLIFF CHIANG
The inmates of Arkham Asylum have taken over DETECTIVE COMICS in “Beneath the Mask” Part 1 of 2! It’s Black Mask verses Jeremiah Arkham for control of the asylum. But what of the enigmatic Three Beauties, and how does Batman fit into the mad plan? Everything that was set up and teased in BATTLE FOR THE COWL: ARKHAM ASYLUM and ARKHAM REBORN is at last revealed, but the answers to the mysteries just might drive everyone – including Batman – mad!
Then, in the co-feature, the spotlight is shone on Renee’s personal life. But just who knows about her secret identity, and what will they do with that information? That is the question...
BATGIRL #9
On sale APRIL 14 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by LEE GARBETT & TREVOR SCOTT
Cover by Stanley “Artgerm” Lau
The conclusion to “Batgirl Rising” begins here with part one of the four-part “Flood” storyline! A string of bizarre, technology-based “suicides” gets the attention of both Batgirl and Oracle, but for very different reasons. And the two heroes will soon realize that they’re the real targets of a nefarious madman Hell-bent on revenge…
BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #11
On sale APRIL 21 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Co-feature written by MARC ANDREYKO
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN & DEREK FRIDOLFS
Co-feature art by JEREMY HAUN
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
Batman, Robin and Abuse join forces to combat the frightening strength of Victor Zsasz’s army! Can Batman and his allies save Gotham City’s kidnapped children? And what happens when Abuse spirals out of control?
Meanwhile, in the Manhunter co-feature, the odds are stacked against Kate as she goes up against a new adversary in the courtroom. Her increased frustration with the proceedings gets taken out on every thug in Gotham – but is Manhunter making too many enemies for her own good?
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #11
On sale APRIL 28 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI
Art and cover by GUILLEM MARCH
As Gotham City swirls in a maelstrom of evil and villainy, three of the most unlikely candidates – Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn – step forward to bring some light to the situation. But will their efforts enough to stem the tide of madness and mayhem?
OUTSIDERS #29
On sale APRIL 21 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by DAN DIDIO
Art by DON KRAMER & MICHAEL BABINSKI
Cover by PHILIP TAN & JONATHAN GLAPION
When Looker returns, her bloodlust is strong – and so is the vampire-hunter hoping to drive a stake in her heart. Her only hope for survival is The Outsiders, who are still stranded in Markovia and struggling to determine whose side they’re really on…
RED ROBIN #11
On sale APRIL 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by CHRISTOPHER YOST
Art and cover by MARCUS TO & RAY MCCARTHY
“Collision” races to its conclusion as Ra’s al Ghul’s endgame for Red Robin begins. The Men of Death are on the move in Gotham City, and Red Robin, Batgirl and Prudence set out to stop them from killing everyone Bruce Wayne ever cared about. But before he can take on Ra’s, Red Robin has to get past Gotham City’s own protectors...
AZRAEL #7
On sale APRIL 21 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA • Art by RAMON BACHS & JOHN STANISCI
Cover by FRANCESCO MATTINA
His sanity starting to crack, Azrael tracks down Hide ‘n’ Seek, a pair of kidnappers whose actions bring back some very painful, fractured memories for Michael Lane. Can a psychiatrist assigned by the GCPD help Lane keep it together before Azrael goes berserk?
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #43
On sale APRIL 7 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by SAM KIETH • Art and cover by SAM KIETH
The “Ghosts” storyline comes to a thrilling close! Batman and Callie continue battling their internal ghosts and the external foe who is preying on them. But when they realize they can’t even trust the police, what can they do? Can Batman survive another loss?
