ZANADU RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 5/30/12

BATMAN: DEATH BY DESIGN HC

(W) Chip Kidd (A) Dave Taylor

In this new, original graphic novel from superstar writer/designer Chip Kidd and artist Dave Taylor, Gotham City is undergoing one of the most expansive construction booms in its history. The most prestigious architects from across the globe have buildings in various phases of completion all over town. As chairman of the Gotham Landmarks Commission, Bruce Wayne has been a key part of this boom, which signals a golden age of architectural ingenuity for the city. And then, the explosions begin.
All manner of design-related malfunctions - faulty crane calculations, sturdy materials suddenly collapsing, software glitches, walkways giving way and more - cause casualties across the city. This bizarre string of seemingly random catastrophes threatens to bring down the whole construction industry. Fingers are pointed as Batman must somehow solve the problem and find whoever is behind it all.

If you are unfamiliar with Chip Kidd, I suggest checking out this book, or anything else you can get your hands on. His work blows me away every time. I myself was unfamiliar with Dave Taylor's art until his name showed up attached to this book. His Victorian style perfectly suits the subject matter. recommended by erin.