The Flash: Starting Line (DC Essential Edition)

The Flash: Starting Line (DC Essential Edition) features an outstanding collaborative storyline from creators Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato, and collects The Flash #0-12 and The Flash Annual #1. Featuring gorgeous, brand-new cover art, The Flash: Starting Line (DC Essential Edition) is a definitive entry point to the DC Universe's vast library, perfect for new readers and longtime fans alike.

Ever since he was struck by a bolt of lightning and doused in a potent mix of chemicals, Barry Allen has kept the streets of Central City safe as the Flash--the Fastest Man Alive! But thwarting crime has earned him a powerful and eccentric Rogues Gallery. Captain Cold, Heat Wave, Mirror Master, Golden Glider, the Trickster and Weather Wizard have now united in their hatred for the Scarlet Speedster, and they won't quit until they put the brakes on his crime-fighting ways.

The DC Essential Edition series highlights the best standalone stories the medium has to offer, featuring comics' greatest characters. These trade paperback editions focus on the easiest entry points DC has in its vast library, with seminal, groundbreaking tales that transcend the printed page. Start with the Essentials.

Francis Manapul is the artist and co-writer of The Flash, which is part of DC Comics--The New 52. His previous work for DC Comics includes books such as Adventure Comics, Superman/Batman, and The Legion of Super-Heroes. His work has been published in various publications from the likes of Aspen Comics, Editions Delcourt, Top Cow Productions, and Devil's Due, just to name a few. Manapul was born in Manila, Philippines, and currently calls Toronto, Canada, his home.

Brian Buccellato is a writer and illustrator, best known for his work as scribe on The Flash with co-writer and artist Francis Manapul. He has also written Detective Comics, Injustice: Year Three and Forever Evil: Rogues Rebellion for DC Comics. As a colorist, he's worked for Marvel, DC, Vertigo, Top Cow, Image and Dynamite Entertainment. His recent coloring credits include Adventure Comics, Hellblazer, Superman and The Flash.