BATMAN: A DEATH IN THE FAMILY (1988) 8.5 VF+ First Printing Trade Paperback

Item Specifics

Publisher

DC Comics

Main Character

Batman

Format

Softcover

Genre

Superhero

Grade

8.5 VF+

Certification

Uncertified

Signed

No

Item Description

A DEATH IN THE FAMILY is a four-part storyline written by Jim Starlin and illustrated by Jim Aparo. Published in 1988 by DC Comics. The story provides one of the most shocking developments to the BATMAN mythos as JASON TODD, the second ROBIN, is killed at the hands of BATMAN's archenemy, the JOKER.

The story was controversial in more ways than one, as it was the result of a social experiment by DC and their readers, in which people would have the last say regarding ROBIN's ultimate fate by phoning in their vote to a special DC number. The audience chose for the BOY WONDER to die and thus, a legendary figure in comics was eliminated, bringing shock value and darker elements to the comic book industry as a whole.

This 148-page trade paperback collected the four issues of the 'A DEATH IN THE FAMILY' limited series (in BATMAN #426 - #429), written by Jim Starlin and illustrated by Jim Aparo, with Mike DeCarlo. It tells the story of JASON TODD spiraling out of control, and deciding to find his biological mother without BATMAN's help.

He finally does track down his mother, a former associate of the JOKER, but unfortunately, the JOKER shows up during the reunion and beats ROBIN to death. BATMAN's quest for revenge brings him into conflict with SUPERMAN when the JOKER reappears as an ambassador of Iran, with full diplomatic immunity.

The twist to the story is that readers were encouraged to phone in to DC with their vote as to whether JASON TODD would live or die. Unfortunately for the BOY WONDER, it was 'Thumbs Down'!

The story was controversial and widely publicized. Despite JASON TODD's unpopularity for being disrespectful and headstrong, DC faced backlash for the decision to kill one of its most iconic characters. It remains, though, as one of the most important stories in BATMAN lore.

This copy - a FIRST PRINTING of an edition that went into 13 reprintings! - is in terrific condition for its age of 36 years - the covers are mirror-smooth and the page edges are without the slightest flaw. The spine is still perfectly squared. Overstreet values an 8.5 VF+ copy at $20 . . but we're pricing our copy at $16 - to give you the best bargain you'll find on HipComic!

Seller Information

Seller

bennettoons (912)

Registered Since

05/07/2005

Feedback

99.6%

Store

Benny's Comics Corner

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Item Location

California, United States

Ships To

United States

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Returns Accepted

Yes

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