Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet Book One Review – The King Has Taken His Throne

Adversity is said to make one stronger and better able to cope with problems as they arise. If that’s the case, T’Challa is going to be invincible by the time this run of bad luck is through.

To be fair, bad luck isn’t the scapegoat for all of Wakanda’s problems. Advanced as they may be in terms of technology and society, the citizens of Wakanda are still human, and therefore susceptible to manipulation. For one to successfully rile up a crowd, however, there has to already be some discontent present, and that’s where Ta-Nehisi Coates picks up with his first volume of Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet.

Black Panther has been a difficult character to nail down for some, as his power set and origin aren’t directly responsible for his struggles and trials like other heroes. Black Panther is just as much about the country he rules as it is directly about T’Challa, and Coates understands that completely. He delivers a conflicted leader, a ruler who’s kingdom is falling apart not just from an external enemy (though there is one of those as well), but from the decisions that leaders must make every day. It’s a fascinating look at a unique culture, and honestly a breath of fresh air compared to the corporations, mafias, and gangs that seem to populate so much of the standard Marvel Universe.

The art of Stelfreeze is perfectly suited for this world, and his work on charactes like the Dora Milaje, Ramonda, Tetu, and Zenzi is just phenomenal. Stelfreeze and Colorist Laura Martin aren’t afraid to try some different techniques, as witnessed in a still moment between Ayo and Aneka, where their features are cloaked in darkness, only highlighted by the red tints of their tattoos.

A Nation Under Our Feet Volume 1 is filled with complex characters, conflicting political opinions, and stylish action, and whether you’re a fan of the character or have never been interested a day in your life, this book is worthy of your time.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Written By: Ta-Nehisi Coates

Art By: Brian Stelfreeze

Colors By: Laura Martin

Lettered By: VC’s Joe Sabino