Marvel Comics
Writer: G. Willow Wilson
Cover Artist: Sara Pichelli
Yes! This book is wonderful! And it matters, a lot. Quite a bit is riding on the success of the new “Ms. Marvel.” For months the media machine has been bringing us information and tidbits about this new heroine and she’s finally arrived. It shouldn’t matter but a female-led book written by a woman is a big deal. Especially when that woman is as talented as G. Willow Wilson. Wilson beautiful introduces us to what will hopefully be comic’s next big star, Mr. Marvel.
Kamala Khan is a lovely nerdy fan-girl growing up in her average Muslim-American household in Jersey City. She’s innocent, naïve and desperately wants to fit in, just like everyone. And her favorite super-hero is former Ms. Marvel and current Captain Marvel, Carol Danvers. Captain Marvel represents strength. She’s an icon in the Marvel Universe and deserves to be. She technically even outranks Captain America. And Kamala wants to be her. Who wouldn’t? After sneaking out to a party, something very out of the ordinary happens and we get the feeling she’s going to learn the meaning of “be careful what you wish for.”
“Ms. Marvel” is an exact execution in how to character build without losing interest. Kamala is one of the most real characters created recently. I believe in her, I feel for her and, with help from Wilson, I understand her. As someone who knows very little about the Muslim faith I enjoy learning the home life Wilson (herself a Muslim) presents here through a teenage girl. What’s presented here in story and in characters are a very strong and powerful beginning. It’s a first issue that not only keeps you interested but gets you emotionally involved. It takes a very skilled writer to do that. G. Willow Wilson is a phenomenal writer and she’s the perfect person to expose Ms. Marvel to the world. Of course, lest we forget the gorgeous and unique artwork of Adrian Alphona. He made a name for himself co-creating fan-favorite series “Runaways,” a series about the children of super-villains. His resume is perfect for a teen-led, emotionally strong series.
“Ms. Marvel” is an excellent example of something to inspire. In the hands of the right person it can help break down misconceptions about race and religion. It can inspire a young woman to believe in herself. To know not everyone has to be a cliché. It can inspire positivity in the portrayals of female characters. That is what I get from just one simple issue. There is that much there. The future is very bright for the young, new Ms. Marvel.
Jo Schmidt
