So, basically, this is a Batman book where Batman is not the main character. The idea may seem intriguing -it certainly aroused my curiosity- and when it comes to Grant Morrison, I always expect to have my mind blown. This did not happen this time.
Exploring the history of Arkham Asylum and introducing new characters like Amadeus Arkham and Dr. Cavendish was very refreshing, but the plot was weirdly tasteless and boring, somewhat chaotic as well. Many villains from the Batman universe appear (Clayface, Killer Croc, the Scarecrow, the Mad Hatter)but they do not bring anything to the story.
The most redeeming quality of the book is the incredibly lavish and detailed illustrations by Dave McKeen; each page is an incredible, unique work of art that makes Arkham Asylum - A Serious House on Serious Earth worth reading.

The art is stunningly sublime; horrifically gorgeous. Sadly, on the downside, the Joker's dialogue is often difficult to read and sometimes completely unreadable. Still, an incredible aesthetic experience.

The artwork was kind of eerie, but in an odd way. I understand that the protagonist is a villain. I understand that this IS Arkham Asylum. I just wanted more and the art disappointed me.
dark mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark sad fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
challenging dark mysterious fast-paced
challenging dark medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
challenging dark emotional sad tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: N/A
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark tense
challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

It’s one of the most important graphic novels of all time for a reason. The story is dark and macabre, the art is nightmarish and at times terrifying to look at. It’s a different take on Batman but it’s one that works perfect for this story, he is a shadow in the dark, less man more monster. A creature of pain and destruction. He belongs in the asylum. I loved it