Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Batman Special Edition (FCBD) #1: 2021

Rate this book
The Batman creative team of James Tynion IV and Jorge Jimenez take their epic run to the next level. Gotham City is on the brink of a violent evolutionary path and the danger level to Batman and his allies reaches a fever pitch. The Magistrate now have full support from the mayor to handle high level law enforcement in Gotham and have branded the Dark Knight as Enemy #1. Plus, the Scarecrow has his own terrifying agenda as he takes this chaotic moment to launch his master plan. This is the first look at the epic FEAR STATE event that runs across the Batman titles beginning this Fall. The new Dark Knight, Jace Fox has arrived in this sneak peek of the upcoming I AM BATMAN series written by Academy Award-winner John Ridley with stunning art by Travel Foreman. Fans will get a taste of this blockbuster storyline starring the next Dark Knight.

31 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 10, 2021

449 people are currently reading
249 people want to read

About the author

John Ridley

217 books92 followers
John Ridley IV (born October 1965)[2] is an American screenwriter, television director, novelist, and showrunner, known for 12 Years a Slave, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. He is also the creator and showrunner of the critically acclaimed anthology series American Crime. His most recent work is the documentary film Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982–1992.


Librarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
268 (40%)
4 stars
158 (23%)
3 stars
150 (22%)
2 stars
48 (7%)
1 star
44 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Nicolo.
3,464 reviews205 followers
August 16, 2021
Free Comic Book Day books should be enjoyed, unless it's more Batman books, which DC has been pumping out lately as the majority of its publishing slate. However, this book's actually half Batman only because it's not Bruce Wayne under the cowl in the other one. It's a nice couple of previews for upcoming books.
Profile Image for Daniel.
797 reviews153 followers
September 29, 2024
Welp ... that's 15 minutes of my life I'd like to have back. 😅
Profile Image for James.
2,586 reviews79 followers
August 21, 2021
A tease for Tynion’s Fear State and a tease for Ridley’s I Am Batman. Both made me want to read them.
Profile Image for Gordon.
756 reviews14 followers
August 22, 2021
Actually makes me want to pick up the Next Batman: Second Son series, then I remember how atrocious the art was and maybe not. But this was a decent little bridge between stories. It's just a shame Jace is already an afterthought.
Profile Image for Kieran McAndrew.
3,066 reviews20 followers
February 10, 2025
Batman Special Edition (FCBD) #1: 2021

As Simon Saint and Scarecrow continue their efforts to take over Gotham, a new Batman stands ready to enter the fight.

Some great art and a fun introduction to the 'Batman' line.
Profile Image for C. John Kerry.
1,422 reviews10 followers
Read
March 17, 2024
There are two stories in this book and both are lead-ins for subsequent storylines. The first one pits Batman up against The Scarecrow. This time the Scarecrow is using other methods than his usual toxins to instil fear in people. As well we have a company called Saint Industries which is planning to introduce some sort of robotic guardians to combat the rampant crime in the city. Somehow I suspect that Saint Industries is more of a threat to Gotham than The Scarecrow is. The second story features Jace ox, the son of Lucius Fox. He has something, a super computer I suspect, trying to hack into some sort of armour that he wants to make use of. While that is happening he goes off to track down some terrorists who are possibly in town. It seems things have been happening already so I am a bit confused. Still this is a good story and an interesting start to something. If I had been paying to comics more in 2021 I might even know what it was. Still I enjoyed both of these. Not sure I would recommend them unless you can grab hold of the subsequent releases but still they are interesting. Happy reading.
Profile Image for Dan.
3,598 reviews611 followers
May 5, 2023
Batman has been attacked by the Scarecrow. It’s a toxin, but it’s more…Batman feels as though the Scarecrow is actually in his brain.

Simon Saint has developed the Magistrate Program—a group of “peacekeepers” to solve the crime problem in Gotham City. Simon claims it’s all too much for Batman.

Good illustration; Batman looks hot with some scruff. And the Scarecrow is creepy.

The “I Am Batman…” one is a bit weird and all over the place. Thwarting a plot that would have sparked tensions…
Profile Image for Zac Stojcevski.
636 reviews6 followers
November 20, 2021
Having just completed (we believe) the world’s longest COVID-19 lockdown this was chillingly triggering. A dystopian technocracy seems to be coming with pressures on police and demois of Gotham City to be led astray - by powers, leaders, Scarecrow (especially with leaders using straw man diversions) and the masked and unmasked. Meanwhile, Batman seems to be isolated and traumatised…
Profile Image for Juan.
150 reviews2 followers
September 25, 2023
Cool free comic to celebrate for National Comic Book Day

Entertaining stories about Batman & Gotham Universe from DCU Comics. I had fun reading and great way to celebrate National Comic Book Day (Sept 25, 2023).

Hope, Amazon Kindle adds more free comics and grpahic novels this year and future.
107 reviews1 follower
May 26, 2025
Better drawn better written but

Any guy with a descent tailor can be a Batman I've lost count and I don't care at this point a series based on Fatman who swings on his thousand pound test cable knocking down bad guys in an alley like bowling pins would make a more interesting story arc. Just as long as they don't show his parents getting blown away by a pizza delivery guy.
4,418 reviews37 followers
August 10, 2021
Fcbd on this years product.

Dc comics freebie. Suitable for 13 + . Good color artwork. The first story is about Batman vs the scarecrow in Fear State. The second story is I Am Batman, Gotham city has Next generation heros coming online.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
6,067 reviews113 followers
March 17, 2024
Batman Special Edition (FCBD) #1: 2021 by John Ridley – I stumbled across a free Batman comic, and I really liked the vibe! I read the comics the 90s cartoon is based on, so it wasn’t my first tango in Gotham. If you want to dip your toe in the water, this was a cool teaser! Happy Reading!
Profile Image for Don.
1,485 reviews11 followers
August 17, 2021
These look like two great stories. The artwork is incredible and Fear State looks like a really good fresh take on the whole “multi title comic event “ thing . I’m very interested here
1 review
September 1, 2021
Short summary

Too short of a book. Good action. Inking very good. Hopefully the next edition will be more forthcoming and have a lot more pages.
Profile Image for Eladio Garro.
93 reviews1 follower
November 28, 2021
None of the stories are worth it. James Tynion's bland run is bland, as always, and John Ridley's dark fantasies continue to grow.
6 reviews
September 20, 2022
FCBD

Made me want to read other books in the series, well written, and well drawn. Good introduction to the series.
Profile Image for Ron.
955 reviews5 followers
January 13, 2023
Meh

Just a promo for another book. A wasted read.
Profile Image for Colby Fitzsimmons.
199 reviews4 followers
March 25, 2023
Average

It was free so that's a plus. But the first part was ok and the I am batman part was good in the art department but the writing department needed work.
1 review
May 7, 2023
Great read

This comic was fun to read. Loved the graphics and content. Gives Batman a different flavour. Can’t wait to read more.
Profile Image for Carlos Moran.
33 reviews
October 10, 2023
Entretenido

Muy buena historia te mantiene muy entretenido durante todo el transcurso de la lectura, esperando que paso a paso se transcurra en la historia.
Profile Image for Melvin Patterson.
238 reviews2 followers
November 20, 2023
Nice artwork and story

Have to admit I haven't kept up with Batman comics, but this one was really interesting. A good re-introduction to the mythology.
Profile Image for Dae.
6 reviews7 followers
December 31, 2023
Good for fcbd. Makes me want to pick up more Batman comics. A fun, action packed read
2 reviews
January 30, 2025
Intriguing

Awesome, looking forward to see more comic books with Batman, batgirl, nightwing, and the Boy wonder Robin. Trevon McBride was here
Profile Image for Elder Magalhães Campi.
99 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2023
When it comes to the world of comics, Batman has always held a special place in the hearts of fans. The Caped Crusader has seen numerous iterations and creative teams over the years, and in 2021, John Ridley, James Tynion IV, and Mico Suayan delivered a special treat to Batman enthusiasts with the "Batman Special Edition 2021." This unique comic book certainly stands out in the vast Bat-verse, offering an intriguing and captivating take on the Dark Knight.

John Ridley, known for his thought-provoking storytelling, and James Tynion IV, a rising star in the comic book industry, combine their talents to craft a narrative that digs deep into the psyche of Bruce Wayne and the city he protects. The story's premise is refreshingly bold, as it explores the legacy of the Wayne family's fortune and its complicated ties to social justice issues. Ridley and Tynion IV's writing keeps readers engaged from start to finish, presenting a Batman who is not only a symbol of justice but also a beacon of change.

Mico Suayan's artwork in the Batman Special Edition 2021 is nothing short of stunning. Suayan's detailed illustrations bring Gotham City to life with its gritty streets, towering skyscrapers, and iconic Batcave. His character designs are masterful, particularly his portrayal of Batman and his rogues' gallery of villains, which evokes a sense of both familiarity and freshness.

One of the standout features of this special edition is its thematic depth. It delves into the complexities of wealth, privilege, and their impact on society. The creative team doesn't shy away from addressing real-world issues, making Batman's mission to protect Gotham even more relevant and thought-provoking.

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, allowing for character development and world-building without sacrificing the action-packed sequences that Batman fans crave. The dialogue is sharp, with each character's voice distinct and true to their established personalities.

The Batman Special Edition 2021 also shines in its exploration of supporting characters, with Alfred, Lucius Fox, and others playing crucial roles in the narrative. These character dynamics add depth to the story and emphasize the importance of teamwork in Batman's world.

In conclusion, Batman Special Edition 2021 by John Ridley, James Tynion IV, and Mico Suayan is a must-read for Batman fans and comic book enthusiasts alike. It offers a fresh perspective on the Dark Knight while staying true to the core elements that make Batman an enduring icon. With its compelling storytelling, breathtaking artwork, and social commentary, this special edition leaves a lasting impression and reminds us why Batman continues to be one of the most beloved characters in the world of comics.
Profile Image for Amelia Bujar.
1,792 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2025
FULL REVIEW ON MY WEBSITE
http://thebookcornerchronicles.com/20...

I gotta admit that this comic book was a okay read for me. Even thou it wasn’t the best comic book I’ve read in my time.

This comic book is able to offer us a engaging story and very impressive artwork. But at the same time it falls short of fully capturing the depth and complexity that Batman fans often expect.

This comic in a way gives us new elements to Batman’s character and his relationships, particularly with supporting characters. Which I found to be very interesting. But at the same time it gives us more exploration of themes like legacy and responsibility which of course is a huge part of the Batman lore.

But at the same the the artwork in this comic book is very good, since its very beautiful and plays very well with the whole Batman theme of this comic book. At the sane time the artwork in a way complements the narrative’s tone of this comic book. There are a lot of times during this entire comic book where the artwork help to elevate key moments, making the action sequences and emotional beats more impactful.

However I have to admit that this comic book has a few issues here and there. One of those problems is the pacing of this book. Because at times it feels very rushed which makes it just gloss over certain intriguing aspects which weren’t explored in depth as they should have been.

The other problem for me with this comic book is that some character motivations could have been fleshed out more to enhance reader engagement. Because at times they feel very shallow and like there weren’t a lot of thought put into them.

The last problem I personally had with this comic book is the familiar tropes this comic book has. Above I said that the plot introduces new ideas which I liked. But the way the new ideas are introduced to us, makes it very similar to some Batman tropes we have seen a million times in other batman comic books or even batman movies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.