Harley Quinn’s Greatest Hits

Since her debut as the Joker’s psychotic girlfriend in the 1990s cartoon Batman: The Animated Series, Harley Quinn’s popularity has exploded and she’s gained a rep as a “good” baddie. This collection, appearing to tie in with her appearance in Suicide Squad, is a mixed bag. Readers unfamiliar with the goings-on of the DC superhero universe will likely be confused, as only the first two stories are standalones; every other story is tied to a larger story arc. It’s fair for new readers to wonder, for instance, why Harley Quinn shoots Catwoman in one issue when in the next they’re shacking up together like BFFs. There are standout moments, however. Two issues are illustrated by comics legend Jim Lee. Bruce Timm, the animator who designed Harley Quinn, provides the artwork for a two-page origin recap. And Paul Dini, Harley’s other cocreator, writes a particularly touching episode in which she visits her family during Christmas. (July)