Batman celebrates the big seven-five.

• Position: WHAT'S NEW? - Brief article

He's in his eighth decade and looks great--and Gotham's winged avenger never has been more popular. Throughout his 75-year life, he has been cast as a brooding antihero, a campy chum, and a brilliant strategist, but always ... he is Batman. This lone, mysterious vigilante known as "The Bat-Man" first swung over the rooftops of Gotham City in the spring of 1939. Three-quarters of a century and millions of devoted readers later, this iconic hero easily is one of the most recognizable figures in all of popular culture.

From his first appearance by Bob Kane and Bill Finger to his recent reinvention by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo, Batman: A Celebration of 75 Years--hardcover, published by DC Comics,

New York--collects the Caped Crusader's most memorable moments, from such industry leaders as Denny O'Neil, Neal Adams, Frank Miller, Marshall Rogers, Dick Sprang, Carmine Infantino, Mike W. Barr, Paul Dini, J.H. Williams III, Greg Rucka, Chuck Dixon, and others.

The book is divided into Parts with a fascinating...