The popularity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has invested many in the trials and tribulations of superheroes such as Thor, Iron Man, Captain America and — everyone’s favorite — Spider-Man. Despite the widespread success of the MCU and Detective Comics (DC) movies, people tend to disregard or even openly condemn the comic books from which these stories originate. 

They are viewed as children’s stories about superheroes who wear funny capes and do the impossible. While some might prefer to lean back and watch the movies as they premiere, there is great joy in going back to the true source of these stories — the comic books themselves. 

Superhero comics might be a great entrance into the world of comic books; there are, after all, many other genres for readers to discover. Below is a list of some of our favorite comic books that beginner comic book readers will enjoy. 

If you are a fan of science fiction, fantasy or a really good story, “The Sandman” graphic novels are perfect for you.

‘The Sandman’ Graphic Novels by Neil Gaiman 

You may know him from his books “Coraline” or “Stardust,” but Neil Gaiman has achieved significant acclaim in the world of graphic novels. 

“The Sandman” series features an immortal main character named Dream, who lords over the Dreamworld and all of its inhabitants. Dream is a member of the seven “Endless,” which include his other family members: Death, Desire, Destruction, Despair, Delirium and Destiny. 

The graphic novels are so beloved that the series’ epilogue, “Sandman: Overture,” won the Hugo Award for science fiction and fantasy in 2016. It is the first and only graphic novel to win the award. Netflix is even releasing a TV show based on the series soon, starring Tom Sturridge as Dream. If you are a fan of science fiction, fantasy or a really good story, “The Sandman” graphic novels are perfect for you. And who knows, you might even encounter Dream one night as you drift off to sleep. 

‘Hawkeye’ by Matt Fraction and David Aja 

In 2015, Matt Fraction and David Aja created a standalone comic adventure for the archer of the  Avengers, Hawkeye. Since many know the character from the MCU, the series reintroduces Clint Barton and heavily focuses on his life outside of being a superhero. 

What is so enjoyable about this comic series is that the storyline is very grounded and shows that Clint Barton is just a normal human being. While the Avengers are portrayed as gods in Marvel comics and films, Fraction and Aja subvert that expectation and highlight Clint’s flaws. The series also introduces a new Hawkeye to the Marvel Comics Universe, Kate Bishop. She is an amazing character and many readers will love her from the start because of her blunt personality. 

There is also a Hawkeye show coming to Disney+ in December, so this comic series will familiarize readers with the character before her live-action appearance. Each issue is thrilling and its unique art style makes this series a standout in the MCU.  

Alan Moore’s triumphant story asks why superheroes are venerated and if they deserve to be.

‘Watchmen’ by Alan Moore

This epic graphic novel tackles the questionable morals of its leading superheroes. Famous for the tagline “Who watches the Watchmen?” Alan Moore’s triumphant story asks why superheroes are venerated and if they deserve to be. The superheroes in the story, including fan favorites like Doctor Manhattan and Rorschach, tackle their own personal and philosophical dilemmas as they attempt to discover the identity of a serial killer murdering superheroes. 

This fast-paced and incredibly intricate story inspired a 2019 HBO show. The show dealt primarily with the character Rorschach as a far-right symbol of white supremacy and oppression. It won several Emmys as well as the Peabody Award for entertainment in 2020. 

Fans of the show should check out the graphic novel, as it provides readers with an in-depth look at the lives of the superheroes and their mindset as they put on their capes. How can they save the world if they don’t know how to save themselves?

Comic books are not only about superheroes, and they come in a variety of genres that can appeal to almost any reader.

‘Spider-Man: Life Story’ by Chip Zdarsky 

In 2019, a new story about the famous web-slinger was created by Chip Zdarsky. While his origin story of Spider-Man exists in all adaptations of the character, this mini-series retells Peter Parker’s story as Spider-Man parallel to key historical events. For example, Peter has to deal with the effects of the Vietnam War while maintaining his superhero career. The story reimagines Peter’s responsibilities as a superhero and helps readers understand his impact on fans of comic books. This mini-series is a must-read for all Spider-Man fans.  

Comic books are not only about superheroes, and they come in a variety of genres that can appeal to almost any reader. With the stress of classes, the pandemic and life in NYC, comic books are a quick and fun way to spend time reading without having to commit to novels. You can find a wide variety of comic books on comixology.com, as well as in local stores around NYC.