Comics captivate readers. Even though we don’t have superhuman abilities like Captain America, Iron Man, or Spiderman, the writers give these characters real-world issues that readers can relate to, blended with creative and heroic abilities. Here are our comic book recommendations for anyone who loves strong, emotional storytelling and action-packed adventures.

The Death of Captain Marvel (Jim Starlin)

The legendary Jim Starlin has worked on a wide variety of comics, but “The Death of Captain Marvel” is definitely the one that stands out. After collapsing while defending the galaxy, Captain Mar-vell is exposed to a nerve gas that gives him terminal cancer. For a book that was written in the 80s, it beats out the many modern comics of today. You can purchase the tragic yet outstanding “The Death of Captain Marvel” comic book at Comic Issues and Amazon.

Young Avengers – The Complete Edition (Allen Heinberg and Jim Cheung)

It’s 2021, and with shows like Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Wandavision and Hawkeye taking over phase four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s time to learn who the Young Avengers are. The Young Avengers consist of Iron Lad, Kate Bishop’s Hawkeye, Hulkling, Kid Loki, Miss America, Noh-Varr, Patriot, Prodigy, Speed, Stature, Vision, and Wiccan. This comic is the perfect introduction for the Young Avengers. Writers Allan Heinberg and Jim Cheung illustrate realistic teen issues and incorporate them into glorious action and adventure scenes. You can purchase “Young Avengers: The Complete Edition” off of Amazon or the Bulk Bookstore.

Young Avengers: The Children’s Crusade (Allen Heinberg)

This nine-issue Avengers event by Allan Heinberg and illustrated by Jim Cheung focuses on the Young Avengers: Wiccan, Speed, Hawkeye, Hulkling, Patriot and Stature. Wiccan’s powers start to spiral out of control like his mother, the Scarlet Witch, and she might be the only person who can help him. The Young Avengers set out to find the Scarlet Witch who has been missing for quite some time with help from Magneto and Quicksilver. You can buy “Young Avengers: The Children’s Crusade” at Barnes and Noble or Amazon.

Hawkeye (Matt Fraction)

Matt Fraction and David Aja’s run of “Hawkeye” has become an iconic fan favorite. This comic is a great way to learn about Clint Barton’s past, and to get a feel for the relationship between him and his mentee, Kate Bishop, before Hawkeye premieres on Disney+. In this story, Clint Barton is taking a break from being an Avenger. When his new neighbors are threatened by a track-suit wearing European mob, he realizes the need to stand up and protect his home and his friends. It’s recommended to read “Hawkeye Private Eye” by Kelly Thompson beforehand, which focuses on Kate Bishop being on her own in L.A. This is a great way to get to know the new Hawkeye.

Black Widow (Nathan Edmondson)

“Black Widow” by Nathan Edmondson is an action-packed mystery about Natasha Romanoff atoning for her past life before she joined the Avengers. With the help of her lawyer, Issah, she is taking on mercenary jobs to help financially support her past victims. While undercover in Russia, Natasha uncovers a plot from a new villain, The Hand of God, that spans the globe. In addition to a great story, the comic’s artist, Phil Noto, draws for this story and his art is absolutely breathtaking while bringing something new to the character of Black Widow. You can buy all three volumes of “Black Widow” on Amazon.

Ms. Marvel (G. Willow Wilson)

Jersey City has a new hero with Pakistani-American teenager Kamala Khan, a.k.a. Ms. Marvel. After the Terrigen Mist covers Jersey City, Kamala wakes up with powers that let her change size and shapeshift. While on her mission to protect Jersey City, the new Ms. Marvel runs into the superhero group the Inhumans, and later finds out that she is also part of this group. This comic introduces one of the most likable characters in Marvel Comics as well as a relatable story about being a normal teenager with everyday responsibilities. You can buy all volumes of “Ms. Marvel” by G. Willow Wilson on Amazon.