Let’s be honest: “Batman, Incorporated” should not be running under the “New 52” imprint.

Unlike the other New 52 titles (at least the eight or nine New 52 titles with which I’m familiar), Batman, Incorporated #1 (and most definitely #2) are not at all friendly jumping on points for a reader who isn’t well versed in the recent goings-on in the Batman world.

I did not read volume 1 of this series, which, apparently is crucial to making any sense out of the story line here in #2. And my displeasure reading this book can’t be entirely blamed on me being a Bat-neophyte; while I might not have the deepest familiarity with the Batman continuity, I have read Morrison’s Batman and Robin, Snyder’s Detective Comics and am currently reading Vol. 2 of B & R and Snyder’s Batman.

That said, I can see why someone who does know what’s going on would love the hell out of this book: it’s Morrison at the top of his game, witty jokes and asides, character developments that surprise the reader and the other characters, references to pop culture and other comic books, etc. For me, it was all just too insidery.

The art, on the other hand, is recommended without reservation. Burnham has a lot of fun with little details and draws an awfully alluring Talia al Ghul.