Source: dccomics.com
3. Mad Love
Oh boy, I get to talk about some serious issues that I’m not qualified to discuss with this one. Yaaaaaaay.
Batman: Mad Love is the Harley Quinn origin story, and I’d argue the best story the character has ever been a part of. The graphic novel was eventually adapted into an episode of the cartoon itself and also served as one of the better ones of those. This story follows Harley as she tries to kill the Batman once and for all, while simultaneously flashing back to how she met the Joker. It’s also a tragic story of domestic abuse and the type of person who stays in one of those relationships.
Harley’s story is incredibly depressing as, in most of her appearances, she isn’t allowed to leave the Joker once and for all. Mad Love shows how she fell for her Mr. J and how horribly he treats her. I think it’s a must read for any Batman fan, and one of the best examples of comics handling serious issues well.
Don’t read this one if you want a pick-me-up, but please DO read it.
