"Batman Odyssey"-A Dazzling, But Under-Appreciated Graphic Novel!

Although I haven't collected comic books for several decades, I've recently discovered the enjoyment of reading "Batman" graphic novels. I've read a selection of many of the best works, including---"The Dark Knight Returns"; "Batman: Year One";"The Killing Joke"; "The Long Halloween"; "Hush"; "Mad Love"; "The City of Owls"; and several other greats!

I've found one treasure that's never included on any "Best Batman Graphic Novels" lists, which I thoroughly enjoy! The graphic novel is a compilation of the "Batman Odyssey" series (2010-11), which was written and illustrated by the fantastic Neal Adams! All of the classic elements of Neal's best work from the 70's is included, with appearances by---Ra's al Ghul & his daughter Talia; Man-Bat; The Joker; Deadman; and in a cameo appearance, Aquaman. The story-line also returns to the era when Dick Grayson was the original "Robin", and includes a 70's-style Batmobile. Part-way through the story, we are introduced to an underground world, populated by dinosaurs and giant bats, which Batman & friends discover underneath Arkham Asylum.

Some critics have called the "Batman Odyssey" story-lines everything from incoherent, insane, crazy, and outrageous (along with a host of other adjectives), but I've found the connections between each part of the story (and for me, it works). But, most of my enjoyment came from Neal Adams' ever-dazzling artwork, which pulls the reader into the heart of the narrative. I believe that this work was a triumphant return for Neal, to the hero that he helped define and rejuvenate, during the 60's, 70's & 80's: Batman!

Although my opinion regarding the "Batman Odyssey" graphic novel may not gain me any popularity, I believe it rightfully deserves a place among the 'best'.