It’s a good time to be a Supergirl fan, as fans have several incarnations to choose from. Both the Supergirl TV series and the current DC Comics Supergirl ongoing vary in their approaches just enough to give readers something different, but the newest Supergirl addition is by far the most unique.
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Supergirl: Being Super #1 is the first of a limited mini-series that places Supergirl in a more close-knit setting. It doesn’t feature the constant heroics of the television series or the more far-reaching elements that the other comic series contains. It’s about a 16-year-old girl predominantly dealing with the growing pains of being a teenager, with some superpowers thrown in for good measure.
Writer Mariko Tamaki quickly develops a varied supporting cast for Kara, mainly consisting of her two best friends Dolly Granger and Jennifer Bard. You learn the most about Kara through her interactions with both friends as they run track together, eat at their favorite diner, help each other with history projects, and the like. In many ways, it’s a slice of life narrative with the occasional reminder that yes, she is indeed an alien from another world. Those reminders don’t always come in the way you might expect, though, such as the unfortunate zit incident of 2016 that occurs over midway through.
Artist Joelle Jones is a perfect fit for this type of story. Her characters are all full of life and expression, and every character feels wholly unique. The amount of detaily she manages is also impressive, especailly in that tractor scene.
This book won’t be for everyone, but for those who are looking for a Supergirl story that any teen can relate to, this is your best bet. It is a bit on the slow side, and lacks significant action elements, but the friendship between Kara, Dolly, and Jennifer tends to make up for most of that.
Rating 3 out of 5 Stars
Written By: Mariko Tamaki
Pencils By: Joelle Jones
Inks By: Sandu Florea
Colors By: Kelly Fitzpatrick
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