The popularity among fans is also a good indicator. Comics that have a large and dedicated fan base often have great single - issue stories. Take 'Spider - Man: The Night Gwen Stacy Died'. This story has been talked about for decades by Spider - Man fans because of its emotional impact and how it changed the character's story arc.
Look at the critical acclaim. If a single - issue comic has won awards or has been highly praised by critics, it's likely to be among the best. For example, 'Maus' which won a Pulitzer Prize is a great single - issue (in a sense of being a complete and impactful story on its own) comic that deals with heavy themes in a unique way.
Another great single - issue comic is 'Watchmen #1'. It sets up the complex world of the Watchmen with its unique characters and alternate - history setting. The writing is so detailed that it draws you in right from the start and makes you eager to explore more of this universe.
Well, there's no set number. Some popular comics might have 30 to 40 pages per issue. But indie or lesser-known ones could have fewer or more. It just depends on a bunch of factors.
It can vary a lot. Sometimes it takes a few months, but it could also take longer depending on the complexity and the team involved.
Well, it can vary a lot. But usually, a single-issue comic script might be around 20 to 30 pages.
One way is to look at the language use. If the words flow smoothly and the descriptions are vivid, it's likely a well - written story. For example, in 'The Hobbit', Tolkien's descriptions of the landscapes and characters are very engaging. Another factor is the plot. A good story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with some sort of conflict and resolution. Also, character development is key. In 'Anne of Green Gables', we see Anne grow from a talkative, imaginative girl into a more mature young woman.
Well, a good sign of a best quest story is a clear goal for the protagonist. For example, in 'The Hobbit', Bilbo's goal is to help the dwarves reclaim their homeland. If there's a strong and defined objective like that, it often makes for a great quest story.
One of the best is 'The Killing Joke'. It delved deep into the relationship between Batman and the Joker, exploring the Joker's possible origin. It's a dark and psychological story that challenges Batman's moral code.
Yes, a single comic issue can be forty pages. But it's not the only common length. Comics can range from as few as 10 pages to well over 100. The choice of forty pages might be influenced by the amount of content the creators want to include in that particular issue.
Stories with unique and disturbing settings are often the best. Take 'The Colour Out of Space'. The desolate rural setting combined with the strange, otherworldly color makes it stand out. Also, pay attention to the psychological aspect. If the story gets into the minds of the characters and shows how they are driven to madness by the Lovecraftian elements, it's probably a good one.
One should also think about the emotional resonance. The best Lydia Davis stories have the power to make you feel something, whether it's a sense of recognition, amusement, or a deeper, more complex emotion. For instance, a story that makes you laugh at the absurdity of human behavior or makes you reflect on your own relationships is likely to be a strong contender for being one of her best works.