Batman: In the Sixties
YA-Campy and vibrant, this collection of stories from the 1960s traces the evolution of DC Comics' caped crusader. Batman begins the decade fighting paranormal villains, switches to a tongue-in-cheek style reflective of the popular TV show, and ends the '60s alone as the "Dark Knight" avenging the wrongs done by petty criminals and crime lords after Robin leaves the nest for college. Readers familiar with today's Batman will be intrigued by one of the first stories in which Bat-mite, a pesky pixie with interdimensional powers, tries to make a love connection between Batwoman Kathy Kane's niece, Bat-girl Betty Kane, and Robin. The Kanes-and Bat-mite-disappeared in the mid-60s, clearing the way for Barbara Gordon, a medical librarian, to step in as Batgirl. Other stories feature Clay-face, the Joker, the Penguin, the Riddler, Poison Ivy, and Catwoman. Batman, Batgirl, and Robin each get a solo adventure. There are short biographies of heroes and villains as well as short features on how Bat-technology works. A fascinating glimpse into the history of one the most enduring characters in comic books.Susan Salpini, Purcellville Library, VACopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.