GENRE: Graphic Novel: Super hero. 
 SUBJECT/THEMES: Costumed heroes, vigilantes, love, sex, politics, emotional troubles, violence. 
 SUMMARY: Unlike most 'hero' comic books and graphic novels, where the crime fighter has superhuman powers, all of the heroes in Watchmen are human, or were human. They are people that like to dress up in costume, are tired of witnessing the violence and criminal activity around them, and resolve to do something about it, on their own terms. Each member of the group, originally deemed the Minutemen, have their own reasons for wanting to do what they do. Through flashbacks, and detailed extra bits at the end of each chapter, the reader gains a clearer picture of who these people are, their motivations, and their goals. 
 EVALUATION: I really liked Watchmen. Many writers just fall into the same pattern as other successful authors. Finding true creativity that breaks old molds is a special event, and this graphic novel was one of them. Some of the heroes are even more deviant than the criminals, and violence abounds throughout the book. The plot is deep and complex, and while it can be confusing at times, the reader that sticks with it (and maybe re-reads some parts to really 'get' it), will be rewarded in the end. The art work and color is also very well done. 
 WHY I WOULD INCLUDE IT: Even though the title is old, it is considered a class graphic novel by many. Further, the recently released movie has caused an upswing in popularity for the book, which will likely get a whole new generation interested in it. I would include this for its in-depth, thought-provoking dialogue. The characters have specific views on human nature, and enough of those opinions are controversial enough to give teenagers plenty to debate with their friends. The storyline also touches on personally and global responsibility, and demonstrates how differently people can view the same thing, such as how to save the world from itself. A must-have for a young adult graphic novel collection! 
 This title would work well in a young adult display pairing a movie with the book it was based on. Note, however, that the movie is rated R. 
 ITEMS WITH SIMILAR APPEAL: 
 *	The Joker, by Brian Azzarello. 
 *	Michael Chabon Presents: The Amazing Adventures of the Escapist, Volume 1, by Michael Chabon. 
 *	Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, by Frank Miller. 
 *	V for Vendetta, by Alan Moore.