Deadpool #17

Picking up right where the story left off, “Deadpool #17” begins with Deadpool being made an official member of the X-Men.

Our hero believes he was given the opportunity because of his extraordinary skills (and lots of begging), but the X-Men actually wants to keep tabs on him because of his disturbing and unpredictable methods.

Since Deadpool comics returned last year, not counting “Deadpool and Cable,” the character’s popularity has risen, bringing with it three ongoing “Deadpool” series, numerous miniseries and a number of cameos in other books.

With these many appearances, it might be hard to pick just one to read — especially since they’re all good — but if I had to suggest a single series for “Deadpool” fans, I’d say this series is your best bet.

Batman/ Doc Savage #1

The Golden Age and Modern Age of comics collide in this one shot crafted by “100 Bullets” writer Brian Azzarello.

The issue serves as a springboard for a six-issue miniseries starring other non-superpowered Golden Age heroes such as Doc Savage, The Spirit, The Blackhawks, Rima the Jungle Girl and many others in 2010.

Azzerello, a self-professed fan of pulp magazines and noir, seeks to re-invent these classic characters for a new audience while retaining some of their key attributes.

For example, this universe’s Batman still resides in Gotham and uses fear to intimidate his enemies but also uses dual Colt .45s.

Although the comic is oversized, the only extra features are Phil Noto and Rags Morales’ character sketches, which aren’t much, but the story by Azzarello is well worth it.

Supergod #1

“Supergod #1” is another superheroes-going-bad book by none other than master scribe Warren Ellis.

“Supergod,” like many others before it, tells the story of superheroes that were created by the government to save its citizens but end up on a path of unintended destruction. There’s really nothing new here; in fact, this is the third time Ellis has told the same story with the same publisher (Avatar).

First there was “Black Summer,” then “No Hero,” and now “Supergod.”

Despite its tired subject and my complaints, these anti-superhero books are so well-written and well-drawn that I always buy them.

Besides, if there’s anyone who can add a curveball or two to stories that might have otherwise overstayed their welcome, it’s Warren Ellis.