Graphic Novels.

[fighthefutureofhd]

it wasn't a comic book it was a graphic novel. when it was first released it was on heavier stock paper and looked like a book. the art was nothing like comic books at that time. plus it could never have been released as a comic book. the comics code would have outright banned it. that's why the killing joke was released as a graphic novel. the comics code really doesn't have a whole lot of jurisdiction on graphic novels as they're usually sold only in comic book shops. or they were at the time of the killing joke's release. plus the killing joke couldn't be bought by minors.

[scweb13]

The more I try to really find the difference between Graphic Novels and Trade Paperbacks, the more confusing it gets. The only conclusion I get is that by modern definition, they are the same.

Graphic Novels: a comic with more pages than a single issue comic and is a self-contained story. Examples are Andi Watson's Dumped (Slave Labor Graphics) and Frank Miller’s 300 (Dark Horse Comics).

Trade Paperbacks: these are compilations of single-issues of comics. Single issues of comics are each about 24 pages. Trade paperbacks compile and bind bunches of these single issues together. They typically contain a single "story arc" – a self-contained story within a title, or they are a compilation of issues all written and/or drawn by the same writer or artist. An example of this is Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns (DC Comics) or Neil Gaiman's "Sandman" titles (also DC).

Whether you know the difference between a graphic novel and a trade paperback for your collection isn’t really important, unless you want to impress and communicate better with the teenagers in your library. But do note that Library Journal refers to trade paperbacks as graphic novels.

I really don't care what anybody wants to call them. There are some really great ones none the less.

Another one that I like is Planet Hulk.

[fighthefutureofhd]

i never read that one. didn't that run in the hulk comics? i haven't kept up with all the comics lately.

[jkwest]

All of Neil Gaimans...all of them.

[scweb13]

Originally Posted by fighthefutureofhd

i never read that one. didn't that run in the hulk comics? i haven't kept up with all the comics lately.

Collects Incredible Hulk #92-105, Giant-Size Hulk #1, "Mastermind Excello" story from Amazing Fantasy #15, maps, and character designs.

[Clark Kent]

If you are new to graphic novels it would seem you are looking for self contained stories. Watchmen has no history outside that graphic novel but several of the suggestions made above are more for long term fans of the character and require familiarity with the character's history for full enjoyment. If you liked Watchmen go try to read other Alan Moore work like V For Vendetta. A series of trade paperbacks you might enjoy is Preacher by Garth Ennis.