The Sandman comics, can they be considered as books?

[WX6[ck]]

If you've ever read one, well you'd understand.
The first book I ordered, I was expecting it to be a book, with writing. But when I got it in the mail, I opened it and there were all these pictures in it. I was quite shocked, but when i read it, I found out it was rather good as a plot. Well you can guess what I mean.
So, I wanna hear you views.

[crisaor]

My answer to your question would be Yes. The proper definition could be graphic novel, but that includes any comic book with a considerable amount of pages. The Sandman clearly trascends the comic book concept, as it is much more developed than any of the "regular" comic books in the market (i.e. batman, superman, x-men, etc.). The themes are much more mature, the same goes for their treatment. Dialogues, situations, and plot are of a quality that you wouldn't normally expect in a comic book. The only meaningful difference with a book that I found is that there's drawings in it. Other than that, it has "book quality".
BTW, which one did you get?

[den]

I think it's just a matter of `format' or packaging. Clive Barker did a great series of Comics, the writing and stories superb! But of course the best part being his illustrations...

[WX6[ck]]

The first two

[Isagel]

The Sandman was one of the first graphic novels I read. I remember the way he describes different characters - sometimes as lead figures, sometimes as extras. It was almost like taking the best part of movies and combining them with books.

I´m looking forward to discuss later parts with you, but I really do not want to spoil anything, and I do not remember what storie is in what book. (got to go home and check) But I am curious - which one of the endless is your favorite? Death is the kindest one I think - but I always identified with Delirium, and her twisted logic.
And I adore the amoral Desire. Despair scares me. Dream is so selfabsorbed and sometimes the most cruel one. Destruction seems strangly nice and down to earth. Destiny is beautiful.

Now , come to think of it, I can´t help seeing you as Matthew, the raven. Please do not eat my eyes.

I especially like the Dave McKean titel pages. I have a collection of his work, such as Violent cases, Mr Punch, Cages and Signal to noise. McKean does poetry by pictures.

[crisaor]

']The first two
Good choice. It's much more enjoyable reading them in order. What do you think of the series so far?