The Outsiders #17

The bold cover declaration "Batman Is Back!" sets an electrifying tone for this March 1987 issue, with the Outsiders — a cluster of wide-eyed, open-mouthed heroes reacting in unmistakable shock and awe — filling Jim Aparo's striking composition against a deep blue background. Among the group you can spot a tall, gaunt-faced figure looming above the others, alongside several teammates registering pure disbelief, all rendered in Aparo's distinctively expressive linework. Mike W. Barr and Jim Aparo clearly have something significant brewing for the team, and that cover alone is enough to make you flip straight to the first page.