(I might end up making a video about this someday, comment below if that's something you're interested in!)
The most asked question when it comes to reading comics is where do you start? In recent years DC and Marvel have tried to make it easier by rebooting their issue numbers (and their universes) for new readers. But if you're coming in late for those reboots it doesn't always help. So, my first trick is to look for a comic saying "Part 1" somewhere on it. These are the beginning of a new story arc so even though you may not have read the issues before it's a good place to start.
The way that I got started in comics was by buying the graphic novels/ trade paperback versions of the story arcs. They're essentially a collection of singles so you don't have to worry about keeping up with them as they come out. This is great for "binge reading" an entire story, but just like with TV you have to wait until the singles have already been out for a while. Not only are they late compared to the single issues but they are a much bigger cost upfront. (They're probably cheaper than buying all the singles, but since I don't have any evidence to back that up at the moment I won't make that statement.) I still think this is a good place to start for many new readers though because of the ability to read the entire story and a less stressful way to figure out which characters you like to read about.
Another way to choose which stories to start with, especially if you're determined to buy the singles, is to look into which of the characters you already like have their own titles. These are much cheaper upfront, allowing you to buy more at one time, and are much more current. (Unless you're purposely buying older comics.) While you're reading about the character you already know and love there's a good chance they'll team up with a character you've never heard of. If you end up liking this hero just as much you'll be able to buy their own title the next time you go into the comic book store.
If you're like me the way you got into comic books is by the many television shows that are out now. Most of these shows, at least with DC, have their own comic series going on as well. If you're unsure that you'll like comic books this could be a good place to start reading since you already know exactly what's going on in the characters lives. (Young Justice, Teen Titans (and Teen Titans Go), Arrow, Flash, Supergirl, and more have series like this.)
Where do you go to buy them? Go on google and look up all the comic book stores in your area. Look at all the reviews and try out any that you think would work for you. Eventually you'll find the place where you feel comfortable and happy going to buy comics. I've been going to the same store consistantly since I started collecting and they know me now. This is a great feeling and I hope you can all find a place like this:)
Did I miss anything? Let me know!
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