10 Criminally Overlooked Batman Comics Fans Must Read

10. Batman Reborn: Battle Within/Long Shadows

Something about Batman newer readers might not know is that Bruce Wayne isn't the only one to take up the mantle. Underneath the costume is a person with limits who sometimes he needs a bit of a break, whether it be intentional or not. That's where the first Robin Dick Grayson comes in.

While Scott Snyder's brilliant 'The Black Mirror' is the quintessential Grayson Batman story, this entry is instead going to focus on his first outing as The Dark Knight.

The reason 'Battle Within' and 'Long Shadows' are packaged together is because they go hand-in-hand.

'Battle Within' takes place after Bruce's death in 'Final Crisis' and is where Alfred and Dick declare that Batman must live on for the sake of Gotham City. 'Long Shadows' then follows up with Dick adjusting to being the new Batman and having to prove his worth to himself, Damian Wayne, and Two-Face.

From their fighting styles to their personality, Bruce and Dick couldn't be any different. However, Dick knows that he has to keep the illusion of Batman being the same as always. Him struggling to find the balance between the Batman Gotham knows and who he ultimately is as a crime-fighter is executed extraordinarily well and captivating to watch play out.

Dick's portrayal of Batman feels like a refreshing change up to the status quo in a medium that could use a lot more of them. If you find yourself digging his Bats, definitely check out 'The Black Mirror'.