Green Arrow’s New 52 series became pretty amazing as of #17, thanks to excellent writing and artwork by Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino, respectively.

The story introduces the idea of Oliver not living up to his potential, and then it blows up his life in a way that evokes the classic Daredevil storyline “Born Again” without copying it. It’s one of my favorite story types, and one Green Arrow is a perfect fit for—the hero having to rebuild himself into something better. It works especially well in comics, as you get the character-development benefits of an origin story without having to rehash the same old tale.

Sorrentino’s gritty artwork grounds the events and suits a non-powered protagonist. Not only does each page fluidly advance the strong script, but they’re all fantastic to look at.

The whole issue screams, “Exciting fresh start!” This sort of thing is exactly what the New 52 should have been all along.

Writer: Jeff Lemire

Artist: Andrea Sorrentino

Publisher: DC Comics

How to Read It: back issues; Comixology; included in Green Arrow vol. 4: The Kill Machine (TPB)

Appropriate For: ages 13 and up