Batgirl, Volume 1: The Darkest Reflection

My husband is a huge Batman fan. I tell you this because, if you've been following me for any length of time, you probably know that I'm only just toeing my way into the Marvel and DC universes. Look, those bad boys are daunting. They're huge and, since I was never so much into the “capes and tights” set, I wasn't willing to take the plunge. Now, I'm a little less afraid. I'm testing the waters. Anyway, the point is that most of what I know about Batman and Batgirl, I've absorbed through osmosis from my husband. I know the basics, and possibly a bit beyond that.

Which is why I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to get completely lost in Gail Simone's vision of Batgirl. I didn't need to know very much about Barbara Gordon, or her past. Whether you're coming into this volume with a lot of background knowledge about this character or not, you'll be just fine. Simone brings Barbara to life. She makes her human, with the same flaws and doubts we all have. Happily, she also makes her completely bad-ass. I'm all for Batman, but who doesn't love a fiery redhead who doles out justice?

The illustrations here are crisp, and so vivid that they just draw you in. I was so impressed at the raw emotion that comes through in these panels. I felt for Barbara. I understood her pain, her doubt, and the underlying motivation propelling her forward despite everything else. Paired with the juicy and action packed story line, it was a ride that I completely enjoyed.

Am I little biased because she's a female character? Quite possibly. That doesn't change the fact that Gail Simone's writing has breathed new life into a character that I was already interested in. I really love this Barbara Gordon, and I can't wait to read more.