I've never read very many comics. I've never had the patience to wait between issues to find out how a story evolves. What I'd like to read though are "compilations" of comic books that tell one big story arc.

Walking through my local Barnes and Noble I realized that I never read the story behind Superman's death and I need a recommendation on a good 'compilation' (not sure what the correct term is, "graphic novels?") that tells the whole story. A search on Amazon shows this book which seems to have pretty good reviews.

I was also wondering if anyone had any other recommendations for this type of literature. I'd like to stick to the tried and true characters like Spiderman, Superman, Batman, etc. but would be open to other topics if the material was really good.

Some recommendations or a pointer to a thread which may already discuss this would be appreciated. Thanks.

Now are you looking for the comic "graphic novels" or novels that are based on the comics. I only ask as the book you're referring to is a "text novel". I think the guy wrote it based on the comic books, but it does not contain any pictures. This would be the one you want if you want the comic version http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1563890976

And for a good batman read, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1563893428

I'd suggest buy.com with low prices and free shipping on graphic novels:

Batman: Year One
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...queryType=book

Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 1 (3 volumes available in all, this is just the first):
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...728953&loc=106

Superman: Peace on Earth:
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...405495&loc=106

Return of Superman (if you get the "Death of" you're only getting half the story, here's the rest):
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...286164&loc=106

World Without a Superman (another piece of the Death of storyline, obviously before the return):
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...286156&loc=106

Batman: War On Crime:
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...540122&loc=106

Then there's the Essentials series which reprints early marvel comics in black & white, which are cheap ways to pick up and read old comics.

Have fun!

Thanks for the suggestions. Looks like I'm looking for the graphic novels (I just have to have that great comic book art). I'll check out some of the suggestions.