In his crusade against crime, Bruce Wayne (Batman) meets a young man whose parents are murdered. Moved to deep compassion, Bruce adopts the boy and trains him as a crimefighter. Dick Grayson shows great potential and promise.
However, many have doubts. Alfred fears that another boy has had his childhood stolen, and Commissioner Gordon heartily disapproves; what if the child is hurt? Alfred, as the narrator of the story (great choice) relives the difficulties of raising Bruce. Can Robin prove he is worthy of superhero status?
"Robin: Year One" does a great job of showing the relationship between Alfred, Dick, and Bruce. Alfred is the father of the two men, giving aid and support that make Batman and Robin possible. Dixon does a magnificent job making it feel like a "family."
Using contrast, Dixon portrays a brooding Batman whose darkness is brightened by the undying optimism and good cheer of Robin, the Boy Wonder. While Bruce did not have many friends growing up, Dick is extremely well adjusted socially. Together, one complements the other, and a truly dynamic duo is born.
However, like any family, there are moments of strife, tension, and sorrow. Dixon paints such a believable and identifiable picture of the Robin character that readers will feel as Robin feels. Can he prove that he is worthy? Will he lose his childhood in a scramble for justice?
"Robin: Year One" is one of the best Batman universe graphic novels out there.