The Caped Crusade

Starred review from February 22, 2016
In this excellent, insightful book, Weldon (Superman: The Unauthorized Biography) returns to comic book history with an expanded thesis. He charts the growth of the 20th century’s most popular superhero and tries to determine Batman’s role in catalyzing what’s now considered “nerd culture.” Beginning with the character’s origins as a quick-and-dirty Shadow rip-off and continuing through the alternately beloved and despised 1966 TV series to the movies of Chris Nolan and the present day, Weldon provides a concise history of the Dark Knight with sharp humor and a personal charm that more than makes up for any gaps in detail. By turning the same analytical eye on both Batman and his fans, Weldon makes some keen observations absent from other, more character-focused histories, particularly in regards to Batman’s sexuality and hardcore fans’ ever-shifting but omnipresent dissatisfaction with onscreen portrayals of the character. Weldon has crafted that rare jewel: a book of comics analysis that nerds and “normals” alike can enjoy. Agent: Eric Nelson, Susan Rabiner Literary.