Alan Moore gave Swamp Thing his humanity, by taking it away.

Swamp Thing, began as a figure of horror, and in many respects was not entirely original. A mixture of chemicals and a terrible accident created a huge green and terrifying monster with a thirst for revenge (Hulk anybody?).

Moore changed this recipe, made the Swamp Thing think, and brought in old and memorable characters from all over the place at the least likely moments. His characters were alive, and created a deep kind of story telling not often seen in the comic world. This collection lets you see where it all began, and is worth buying for those reasons alone.

Some readers may be drawn to this book, because of the revitalised Vertigo Swamp Thing version two. Whilst version 2, (Tefe's tale) is generally considered not to be as good, it may throw up some questions you need answering, such as just who was Mr Swamp Thing? Reading this will help you understand the comic's history, and let you into some of its wonder.

Maybe you jumped into the original series late, and want to know more about old Swampy's transformation from Angry to Confused to Almost Good Guy. There's a slim possibility you read the first issues that were all about horror but not much about character. In any case, this book is a good starting point.

I can't say much else about the content of this book as I would almost certainly spoil it for you. Buy it now, and show comic's finest writer your appreciation.