6 Books We'd Recommend to Batman

This may be a little off-topic, but with the latest Batman installment, The Dark Knight, already reaping massive amounts of pre-review hullabaloo, I came to wondering about what the Caped Crusader was reading.

After all, millionaire Bruce Wayne does have a ridiculous library in his mansion, and since he is a wealthy industrialist-playboy, I'd expect he has a lot of time on his hands.

Unlike his other superhero counterparts, he has no special powers, so I'd expect him to brush up on a few skills before he dishes out vigilante justice, so herewith my 6 books I'd recommend to the Masked Manhunter:

1. Batman needs his Batmobile to be in top condition -- no last minute gasket problems or oil leaks needed -- and this book, the Popular Mechanics Complete Car Care Manual, comes highly recommended for auto maintenance.

2. Yes, he has no special powers, but that's no reason not to study your comrades who do. The Superhero Handbook will provide a lot of information that may come in handy should he need a hand with the Joker...

3. ...Speaking of which, Batman's arch nemesis is a brilliant illusionist and the Man-Bat must get ready mentally by studying the cryptic art of mentalism. The Joker works with everyday mundane items, so knowing 97 Foolproof Tricks may be a quick solution to nip him at the bud.

4. Bruce Wayne is fabulously wealthy and likely has many suitors, so it may not be a bad idea to study investment tips. Moreover, with the millions he has locked away in the Batcave, this book on How You Can Legally Hide Your Money in Switzerland may be a clever alternative.

5. Living a dual life ain't easy, and though Wayne likely has an easier time of it than, say Clark Kent, he probably needs all the identity advice he can get. Thus, here is How to Disappear Until You WANT to Be Found, which is written by an author who calls himself "a happy bohemian, slightly insane but completely harmless."

6. Finally, having Alfred around really allows him to delegate many of his more clerical Bat duties -- Big Al is a valuable part of the enterprise. I mean, you think Batman answers his own phone? Or refuels the gas tank? Keeping Alfred happy is a must and raise, room and board may not be enough, especially in today's world. He should read about the 21st century butler and think about a 401k for his trusty household manager.