Slipcase Edition – 1st printing. “1943-1946!” In 1943, Bob Kane’s Batman, one of the most famous creations in comic book history, first entered the pages of newspapers across America. Because of wartime paper restrictions, the strip was sparesely circulated by only a few dailies. Now, this rarely seen work is gathered in a complete, generously-sized collection that every fan will welcome. Here, Batman is a newly minted hero in a world of hoods, heels, and two bit-crooks; the dark, atmospheric style of these black-and-white strips anticipates Hollywood’s films noir of the late 40s and 50s. Also making an early appearance: the Joker. This deluxe edition presents the first four years of the classic strips, exactly as written and illustrated by the Caped Crusader’s most famous writers and artists. Hardcover (Horizontal Format with Slipcase), 11-in. x 8 1/2-in., 536 pages, B&W.