“Supergirl” #1 is a New 52 book that I almost left off my pull list. I decided to grab it at the last second and I’m glad I did. As far as DC New 52 introduction issues go, “Supergirl” #1 doesn’t get caught up in overwrought exposition nor does it trip over itself with contrived dialogue meant to explain the history and setting. In fact it uses one of the simplest yet most effective ways to introduce us to Kara. “Supergirl” #1 is an introduction wrapped up in an action issue.

Writers Michael Green and Mike Johnson tell a story of Kara’s landing on Earth and her immediate clash with a yet unknown government organization who where monitoring her arrival. We’re with her as she first sees this new world and as she realizes the change in her powers brought on by our sun. We see her show her sheer strength but through moments of weakness we’re also reminded that she’s still a young girl. All of this in brought out well in the story. Green and Johnson have developed a first issue that feels light on substance at first glance but after a second read I found myself truly caring about Kara and wanting more.

The art on this issue was by Mahmud Asrar and at first I was a little taken back. The artwork is a little rough around the edges and there were panels that could have really been helped with more attention to detail. But after a second read I found myself liking Asrar’s work and several panels really stood out to me. His action sequences (which is most of the book) flow from page to page and his layouts are really fun and energetic. Much of the action is shown through several huge oversized panels and Asrar really shines here. But I couldn’t help wonder how his art would stand up in future issues, particularly ones that aren’t so action-driven. One thing that did visually drive me nuts was Kara’s ridiculous looking boots. Not sure who designed these things but they really looked silly.

“Supergirl” #1 would definitely qualify as a surprise for me. It’s simple but totally effective in introducing new readers to the character and setting up the personal struggles she is bound to face. The art, while not perfect, provides some high-octane action while giving Kara a sense of emotional and genuineness. I wouldn’t call this the best title in DC’s New 52 relaunched line, but for me it’s certainly in the top group. This was a really satisfying experience.

“Supergirl” #1 is a New 52 book that I almost left off my pull list. I decided to grab it at the last second and I’m glad I did. As far as DC New 52 introduction issues go, “Supergirl” #1 doesn’t get caught up in overwrought exposition nor does it trip over itself with contrived dialogue meant to explain the history and setting. In fact it uses one of the simplest yet most effective ways to introduce us to Kara. “Supergirl” #1 is an introduction wrapped up in an action issue.

Writers Michael Green and Mike Johnson tell a story of Kara’s landing on Earth and her immediate clash with a yet unknown government organization who where monitoring her arrival. We’re with her as she first sees this new world and as she realizes the change in her powers brought on by our sun. We see her show her sheer strength but through moments of weakness we’re also reminded that she’s still a young girl. All of this in brought out well in the story. Green and Johnson have developed a first issue that feels light on substance at first glance but after a second read I found myself truly caring about Kara and wanting more.

The art on this issue was by Mahmud Asrar and at first I was a little taken back. The artwork is a little rough around the edges and there were panels that could have really been helped with more attention to detail. But after a second read I found myself liking Asrar’s work and several panels really stood out to me. His action sequences (which is most of the book) flow from page to page and his layouts are really fun and energetic. Much of the action is shown through several huge oversized panels and Asrar really shines here. But I couldn’t help wonder how his art would stand up in future issues, particularly ones that aren’t so action-driven. One thing that did visually drive me nuts was Kara’s ridiculous looking boots. Not sure who designed these things but they really looked silly.

“Supergirl” #1 would definitely qualify as a surprise for me. It’s simple but totally effective in introducing new readers to the character and setting up the personal struggles she is bound to face. The art, while not perfect, provides some high-octane action while giving Kara a sense of emotional and genuineness. I wouldn’t call this the best title in DC’s New 52 relaunched line, but for me it’s certainly in the top group. This was a really satisfying experience.