Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' Watchmen revolutionized the graphic novel medium, deconstructing superhero mythology through a complex narrative set in an alternate 1985 America. Following retired masked vigilantes investigating a conspiracy, Moore and Gibbons create a morally ambiguous world where heroes are flawed, power corrupts, and utopian visions lead to catastrophe. The work becomes a philosophical investigation into heroism, violence, and whether the ends ever justify the means.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Moore understood that superheroes, taken seriously, are terrifying. Watchmen asks what kind of person actually puts on a mask and decides to enforce their vision of justice, revealing that the line between hero and villain is thinner than we'd like to believe.

DETAILS: • Authors: Alan Moore (Author), Dave Gibbons (Illustrator) • Publisher: DC Comics • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: May 20, 2019 • ISBN: 9781779501127 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days