The term, "graphic novel" had been coined before this book was released but it is considered by many to be the first true graphic novel, and a seminal piece of art that helped establish the comics medium as a respected form of creative expression. It's here because it is a groundbreaking chapter in comic book history that provides an honest, revealing glimpse into the human condition. This book didn't make the list because it is particularly "Christmas-y". Look beyond a little ham-fisted Bronze Age dialogue here and you have a story that is, at its core, about family helping each other through tough times and sharing important moments, even though they're sometimes from different dimensions - something that's literal in this story but could be symbolic for many real-world families. Together, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth, complete with much sleuthing and Alfred's trademark Christmas cookies, hoping to restore Batman's faith in his mission. However, she finds that this Earth's Bruce Wayne has uncovered evidence that his father may have bankrolled a mob boss, calling Batman's entire noble vendetta into question. Helena Wayne, the daughter of Earth 2's deceased Bruce Wayne and that dimension's Huntress, comes to Earth 1 via interdimensional transporter for a Christmas visit. The Brave and the Bold #148 from 1979 and Batman and the Outsiders #19 from 1985 are also great Christmas reads. But The Brave and the Bold #184 is a particular standout because it has everything a Christmas story should have: heart, hope, warmth, family and adventure. And their chemistry as a creative team seemed to work better than ever when the time came for them to do their annual Christmas issues together. Barr and the late Jim Aparo were responsible for some of the Bronze Age's most memorable stories.
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