Watchmen

by Alan Moore & Dave Gibbons, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
Watchmen cover
Good Books rating 4.41
Graphic Novels / Comics
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  • ID: 561
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2005-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

Watchmen: Absolute Edition is a critically acclaimed graphic novel that redefines the superhero genre. Set in a dystopian alternate history, the story follows Rorschach, an aging vigilante, as he investigates the murder of a former colleague, unraveling a web of secrets and conspiracies that threaten the fragile peace of a world on the brink of nuclear war. The novel deconstructs traditional superhero tropes, presenting flawed and humanized characters in a morally ambiguous world. Through its complex narrative and layered storytelling, Watchmen explores themes of power, identity, and the nature of heroism, cementing its place as a landmark in the medium of graphic novels.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-21
fantastic 4.40

This book is a clever joke wrapped in a parody, surrounded by a cool story. It is a deserving classic that has left a lasting impact on the comic genre.

The book is celebrated for its clever and witty narrative, which is wrapped in a parody and surrounded by a cool story. It is a deserving classic that has left a lasting impact on the comic genre. The story is engaging and thought-provoking, with a unique blend of humor and serious themes. The characters are well-developed and the narrative is skillfully crafted, making it a compelling read. The book's lasting impact on the comic genre is a testament to its quality and innovation.

Quick quotes

    A clever joke, wound up inside a parody, and all surrounded and blanketed by a cool story.

    Three cheers for Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons for this deservedly ...

    It is a deserving classic that has left a lasting impact on the comic genre.

Big Glasgow Comic Page · 2025-09-18
brilliant 4.50

The novel is seen as a profound and self-referential masterpiece. It deconstructs the very essence of superhero narratives.

This reviewer sees Watchmen as a landmark work that challenges and redefines the superhero genre. They highlight how Alan Moore's writing delves deep into the meaning and implications of heroism, making it a timeless and thought-provoking read. The novel's intricate storytelling and layered themes are praised for their complexity and originality.

Quick quotes

    The novel is considered by the majority of comic book fans to be a deep, self-referential work of genius.

    Moore uses this book to deconstruct what it means to be a hero.

    A profound and self-referential masterpiece.

Fantasy Hive · 2023-05-05
great 4.00

The writing and artistry are filled with humor and clever depictions. The novel is praised for its unique blend of wit and storytelling.

This reviewer appreciates the humor and artistry in Watchmen, noting how the characters are depicted in a way that adds depth and entertainment. They believe the novel stands out for its ability to blend serious themes with moments of lightheartedness, making it an engaging and enjoyable read. The interplay between the writing and the artwork is particularly highlighted as a strength.

Quick quotes

    Both the writing and the artistry are full of flashes of humour.

    Such as when one character is effortlessly depicted in successive panels holding off the ...

    A clever joke, wound up inside a parody, and all surrounded and blanketed by a cool story.

Jeroen's Thoughts · 2023-04-20
excellent 4.75

Watchmen is the best deconstruction and reconstruction of the superhero concept. It challenges and redefines the genre.

The reviewer sees Watchmen as a groundbreaking work that not only deconstructs but also reconstructs the superhero genre. They believe it is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of comic books, as it pushes the boundaries of what the medium can achieve. The novel's innovative approach and deep exploration of themes make it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    Watchmen is the best deconstruction and reconstruction of the concept of the superhero that I have ever read.

    It pushed the boundaries of what the medium can achieve.

    A must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of comic books.

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