Let’s be honest. I didn’t need to publish this review.
I’ve said it many times before, and I’ll say it again. It’s a Batman and Scooby-Doo crossover book. You already know if you want to buy it.
That being said, I cannot recommend this book more, ESPECIALLY if you love these two franchises as much as I do. The volume collects issues #1-6 of the titular series, but honestly this could have included any number of issues and had the same effect. This series is an anthology first and foremost, meaning you don’t have to have any prior knowledge of continuity or lore to enjoy (though there are several nods throughout that’ll make some longtime comic fans happy).
Naturally, the book is perfect for kids. If you have a little one that you want to help get into comics, this is 100% worth the money. Every story does a fantastic job of easing readers into what’s happening, and can be read independently of any other media.
Just in case you’re not sold on this on premise alone, I’ll go over two of my favorites in this volume (as well as provide links to my individual reviews!) below. For ease of reference, all of my subheadings will serve as the link to their respective stories.
And of course, if you want to read about where it all started, you can find my review of Issue #1 here.
Monsters on Parade
Written by Sholly Fisch and artfully illustrated by Dario Brizuela, Monsters on Parade joins Mystery Inc. as they accompany Batgirl and Nightwing in the hunt for Black Mask! This story does a fantastic job of keeping younger readers up to speed on Dick Grayson’s transition from Robin to Nightwing, all while illustrating that personal change of growing up. The dynamic with the gang is also fantastic, and it results in this book being probably my favorite of the volume.
Double-Dog Dare
What’s better than one crime-solving dog? TWO crime-solving dogs, of course! It’s time for the Gotham Dog Show, featuring guest judges Scooby-Doo and Ace the Bat-Hound! But double the canine companions also means double the trouble! Can the gang stop Two-Face’s dastardly plot before half of Gotham’s handsome hairballs go missing?
This issue is charming as all get out. The idea to swap partners so Shaggy and Ace work together while Batman hangs out with Scooby? Absolutely brilliant. It’s just so much fun.
Overall Value
You already know what I’m going to say here. I’ll say it anyway.
At just a measly $12.99 on Amazon, this trade is ABSOLUTELY worth it. The stories are charming, dialogue is spot on, the art is straight off the Saturday morning screen. Young readers will love it, and there’s enough esoteric Batman lore to entertain even the greasiest of Bat-Fans. Whether you love Batman, Scooby-Doo, or great children’s fiction, there’s something for everyone in this book.
Score: 9/10
