The Best Comics of 2023 - Our Top 10 Picks

As we look back on 2023, it’s evident that this year has been a standout for comic lovers everywhere.

From boundary-pushing storytelling to breathtaking artwork, the best comics of 2023 have truly set a new standard.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of comics, these top ten picks have something unique to offer everyone.

Our curated list not only highlights the most impactful stories and characters but also captures the diversity and creativity thriving in the industry today.

Titles like “Local Man” and “20th Century Men” are just a taste of what you can expect to find.

So, ready to look into a year of unforgettable comic adventures?

Let’s explore the gems that made 2023 an exceptional year for comic books.

10. 20th Century Men

“20th Century Men” combines the incisive superhero critique of “Watchmen” with the bold, over-the-top energy of “2000 AD.” It’s a rollercoaster of emotions—big, angry, funny, and sad. Each character and every line of dialogue hits you like a punch, yet the book also captures the fragile beauty of a desert flower trampled by imperialist boots. The ending will bring you to tears, and the artwork? It’s nothing short of phenomenal.

Writer: Deniz Camp
Artist: Stipan Morian
Letterer: Aditya Bidikar
Publisher: Image Comics

9. Ashes

“Polly, Moho, and Piter only ask for seven days to help their best friend, MacGuffin, reach his final resting place. What unfolds is a road trip, treasure hunt, and nonstop mystery wrapped in multiple framing devices that challenge the reader’s perception of truth. Álvaro Ortiz’s unique ligne claire style simplifies the visual narrative to its essence, using a limited palette and character-focused 20-panel grid.

Despite the potential predictability of nonlinear mysteries, ‘Ashes’ thrives on the balance between comedy and the poignant reflection on who we were and what we’ve left behind. Eva Ibarzabal’s translation adds a precise touch, maintaining brevity in the playful and prideful banter.

Krystal Beisick’s cleverly recessed word balloons prevent the panels from feeling cluttered, allowing the dialogue to drive the story forward. If you’re ready for a heartfelt journey of friendship filled with mini mysteries, ‘Ashes’ is your next must-read.”

Writer/Artist: Álvaro Ortiz
Translator: Eva Ibarzabal
Letterer: Krystal Beisick
Publisher: Top Shelf Productions

8. Carmilla: The First Vampire

Written by Amy Chu and illustrated by Soo Lee, “Carmilla: The First Vampire” is a semi-modern reimagining of Sheridan Le Fanu’s 1872 novel “Carmilla,” a cornerstone of vampire fiction that predates Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” by about 25 years. Set in 1990s Chinatown, New York City, the story centers on Athena, a young lesbian social worker grappling with the mysterious deaths of her clients.

As Athena gets more into the mystery, she becomes increasingly captivated by an alluring woman who may be linked to the murders. Like the best vampire fiction, “Carmilla: The First Vampire” uses its supernatural elements to explore deeper societal fears. Chu and Lee’s rendition of this classic lesbian vampire tale stands out as a masterful retelling, eclipsing others in its genre.

Writer: Amy Chu
Artist: Soo Lee
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Publisher: Berger Books

7. Children of the Vault

I was eager to see how writer Deniz Camp would handle the Marvel universe, and “Children of the Vault” seemed like the perfect fit for the co-creator of “20th Century Men”. Right from the start of this limited series, Camp’s sharp socio-political insights are evident, woven subtly into the narrative.

Luca Maresca excels in balancing detailed, intimate moments with grand, sweeping scenes, resulting in a compelling read.

The dynamic pairing of long-time X-Men rivals Cable and Bishop to combat a pervasive and persuasive techno-virus makes “Children of the Vault” one of the most intriguing and innovative X-titles of the Fall of X era.

Writer: Deniz Camp
Artist: Luca Maresca
Colorist: Carlos Lopez
Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics

6. Distressed Beeping

@tanyasbookbungalow

New in our graphic novels section is Ready or Not by Andi Porretta from Simon and Schuster. This is the debut effort from the author/illustrator. This coming-of-age story explores what it’s like for an anxious teen after high school graduation who hopes that a summer filled with adventure and dares will keep her friend group together as they embark on new journeys. #readyornot #graphicnovel #ya #comingofage #newrelease #newreleasebooks #bookstagram #booktok #bookworm #whattoreadnext #whatshouldireadnext #TBR #addtoTBR #TBRlist #stg #downtownstgeorge #shopindie #shoplocal #shopindiebookstores #indiebookstore #thebookbungalow #simonandshuster @Simon & Schuster @Andi Porretta

♬ Pretty (Sped Up) – MEYY

This collection of Andi Watson’s single-page comics, originally serialized on Patreon, is a delightful mix of charm, insight, humor, and thought-provoking moments. These slice-of-life comics cover everything from maintaining a house and garden (with passing references to the pandemic), to what Watson has been watching, everyday family discussions, bookshop visits, and the life of a cartoonist.

His simplified art style, where characters resemble Fisher-Price toys, paired with soft pastel colors, creates a comfortable aesthetic that highlights his skill in capturing normality. The minimalist approach underscores the effort behind each page, offering readers a lovely time capsule of diary-style comics filled with keen observations.

Writer/Artist/Publisher: Andi Watson

5. The Enfield Gang Massacre

Emerging from Condon and Phillips’ “That Texas Blood,” “The Enfield Gang Massacre” takes us 150 years into the past to explore a violent history rooted in the fictional Ambrose County. This gritty Western follows wrongfully accused criminals who must navigate eager lawmen, vengeful townsfolk, and competing truths that shape the official narrative.

Condon and Phillips masterfully create complex characters facing moral ambiguities and uphill battles, blending elements reminiscent of the Coen Brothers and “Red Dead Redemption 2.” This book stands out as one of the best Westerns in recent times, showcasing that “That Texas Blood” has plenty more stories to tell from its blood-soaked world.

Writer: Chris Condon
Artist: Jacob Phillips
Color Assists: Pip Martin
Publisher: Image Comics

4. Gotham City: Year One

Looking into the concept of Gotham City as a character in Batman’s story, “Gotham City: Year One” presents a Bat mythos-themed take on the Lindbergh baby case. This smart, noir-infused tale respects Batman’s rich history, featuring Slam Bradley as the main character, while also addressing systemic issues plaguing major American cities today. The craftsmanship is top-tier, arguably showcasing Tom King’s best work.

Phil Hester’s finely-honed sequential storytelling, complemented by Eric Gapstur’s inking and Jordie Bellaire’s coloring, brings the story to life with exceptional skill. This book is a rewarding read for both its historical nods and its contemporary relevance.

Writer: Tom King
Penciller: Phil Hester
Inker: Eric Gapstur
Colorist: Jordie Bellaire
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Publisher: DC Comics

3. A Guest in the House

Emily Carroll’s new graphic novel masterfully captures the essence of traditional gothic romance: a newly married woman moves to an old house by the water and discovers a horrifying secret. But is it really that simple?

Carroll blends the vivid reds and blacks of “When I Arrived at the Castle” with the monochrome palette and typography of “Speak.” Renowned for her page-turn jump scares, “A Guest in the House” demonstrates her skill in slow-burn, claustrophobic character studies. The final twist is exhilarating, crushing, and — in retrospect — inevitable.

Writer/Artist: Emily Carroll
Publisher: First Second

2. I Am Stan

In 2020, Tom Scioli released a critically acclaimed graphic biography of Jack Kirby, the legendary “King of Comics.” This year, Scioli follows up with a compelling biocomic documenting the life of Stan Lee. In “I Am Stan,” Scioli masterfully captures the many triumphs and tribulations of the comic book industry’s most iconic ambassador with a vibrant, pop art flair. Scioli’s expressive and kinetic art perfectly reflects Stan Lee’s dynamic energy and passion for comics.

The biography doesn’t shy away from Lee’s faults, peeling back layers to reveal how myths are built on human frailties. More than just a biography, “I Am Stan” is a love letter to the world of comics, resonating deeply with Stan Lee fans and anyone who appreciates passionate storytelling.

Writer/Artist: Tom Scioli
Publisher: Ten Speed Press

1. Superman

Superhero fatigue is a real phenomenon, and even my interest in capes and tights has been waning. However, there are still a few standout gems, like the relaunched, ongoing Superman title from Joshua Williamson, part of the Dawn of DC initiative. Williamson, along with artist Jamal Campbell, starts strong with a story arc that honors the entire history of Superman while propelling the Man of Steel into relevance for today’s audience. With the comics and the upcoming “Superman: Legacy” film, there’s no better time to be a fan of the Last Son of Krypton.

Writer: Joshua Williamson
Pencillers: Jamal Campbell, Various
Inkers: Various
Colorists: Various
Letterer: Ariana Maher
Publisher: DC Comics

The Best Comics of 2023 – Our Top 10 Picks