Joker vs. Robin: Worth a look

If you didn’t pick up a copy of “Detective Comics” No. 826 at your friendly neighborhood comic-book shop this week, you’re missing out on a taut, race-ahead tale by writer Paul Dini.

The story starts with a chance encounter between Robin and the Joker, which leads to a life-or-death struggle for Robin. The Joker’s never been wackier — or scarier. And Robin shows his inner strength by keeping his cool in what appears to be an impossible situation. Batman doesn’t make an appearance until the last page or so, but Robin shows he doesn't need him anyway.