Power Girl (comic book)

Last updated
Power Girl
Power Girl Vol 1 1.jpg
Cover of Power Girl vol. 1 #1 (June 1988). Art by Kerry Gammill and Dick Giordano.
Publication information
Publisher DC Comics
Schedulemonthly
FormatVol. 1

Limited series
Vol. 2–3

Ongoing series
Genre Superhero
Action
No. of issues(Vol. 1): 4
(Vol. 2): 27
(Vol. 3): 16 plus one Special
Main character(s)Power Girl
Creative team
Written by
List
Artist(s)
List
  • Vol. 1:
    Rick Hoberg
    Arne Starr
    Vol. 2:
    Amanda Conner (#1–12)
    Sami Basri (#13–23)
    Hendry Prasetya (#24–27)
    Vol. 3:
    Eduardo Pansica
    Travis Moore
    Adriana Melo
Letterer(s)
List
  • Vol. 1:
    Bob Pinaha
    Vol. 2:
    John J. Hill (#1–24)
    Travis Lanham (#25–27)
    Vol. 3:
    Becca Carey
Colorist(s)
List
  • Vol. 1:
    Julianna Ferriter
    Vol. 2:
    Paul Mounts (#1–13)
    Sunny Gho (#14–20)
    Jessica Kholinne (#16–27)
    Vol. 3:
    Sebastian Cheng
    Romulo Fajardo, Jr
Collected editions
A New Beginning ISBN   9781401226183
Aliens and Apes ISBN   9781401229108
Bomb Squad ISBN   9781401231620
Old Friends ISBN   978-1401233655
Power Trip ISBN   9781401243074
Power Girl Returns ISBN   9781779524072
Electric Dreams ISBN   9781779528148
More Than a Crush ISBN   9781799500513

Power Girl is the name of several American comic book titles featuring the character of the same name and published by DC Comics, beginning with four-issue limited series which debuted in June 1988. The series returned as an ongoing title in May 2009 and continued until October 2011. After a hiatus, it was relaunched again in May 2023, beginning with a one-shot special as part of the Dawn of DC relaunch.

Contents

The second volume was launched in 2009 after its announcement at the 2008 New York Comic Con. The early issues were written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, and illustrated by Amanda Conner. The series aimed to balance Power Girl's superhero and personal lives, distinguishing her from Earth-one counterpart Supergirl with a lighter, action-focused narrative. Critics praised the early issues for their storytelling and artwork.

The third volume launched in 2023 with a one-shot special introducing her new powers after Lazarus Planet and Dawn of DC , the ongoing series focuses on Kara's identity struggles and her complex relationship with the Superman family, where she adopts the name Dr. Paige Stetler, who is a scientist. She confronts new foes like the space pirate Amalak. The debut issue in November 2023 was well-received, ranking as the 36th best-selling comic and praised for its engaging storytelling and art.

Publication history

The second volume of the series was first announced at the New York Comic Con in 2008, although it took about a year for the comic to be released, with the first issue debuting in May 2009. The delay occurred because Amanda Conner, the series’ artist, was still finishing up work on the Terra miniseries. [1]

In 2023, DC announced a third volume of Power Girl series, set to debut as part of the Dawn of DC initiative in September 2023. The series written by Leah Williams and illustrated by Eduardo Pansica. Prior to the series launch, a special one-shot titled Power Girl Special #1, featuring Williams and artist Marguerite Sauvage was released on May 30, 2023 as an induction to the series. [2]

Content and themes

Volume. 2 (2009 – 2011)

Jimmy Palmiotti explained that the Power Girl second series focused on balancing Kara Zor-L's superhero life with her personal life, particularly her secret identity as Karen Starr. Their goal was to distinguish Power Girl from her Earth-1 counterpart, Supergirl, by making her story lighter, action-packed, and fun, avoiding the darker tones often seen in other DC stories. [1] The series is set in and around New York City, introducing a new supporting cast and "old villains" like Ultra-Humanite, and exploring Kara's personal challenges, highlighting her independence. Palmiotti and Gray wanted to blend intense superhero action with intimate, character-driven moments, making Power Girl relatable through her personality, attitude، and relationships. Artist Amanda Conner's "expressive" work was noted for playing a vital role in the series' success, adding depth through detailed facial expressions and body language, enhancing the storytelling in a style compared to the works of Bruce Timm and Darwyn Cooke. [1]

Volume. 3 (2023 – present)

The third Power Girl series kicked off with a one-shot special, introducing her new powers and mission following the events of Lazarus Planet and DC Comics' Dawn of DC . [2] In Power Girl Special #1, Power Girl faces Johnny Sorrow, a villain obsessed with her who holds Earth hostage. This issue delves into her vulnerabilities, emphasizing that even heroes as Kara Zor-L struggle with emotional challenges. The story highlights the importance of relying on friends and allies as she confronts her inner turmoil. [3] [4] [5] Following the special, the ongoing series starts with Power Girl #1, where Kara deals with her new powers. This series looks at her identity and emotional challenges, especially her complicated relationship with the Superman family. Feeling like an outsider, Power Girl tries to find her place in the world by taking on the identity of Dr. Paige Stetler, a scientist focused on sustainable technology. She faces new enemies, like the space pirate Amalak, who disrupts her fundraising event. This conflict shows her determination to prove herself as both a scientist and a hero while exploring where she truly belongs in the DC Universe. [6]

Critical reception

Volume 2 (2009—2011)

The debut issue garnered mixed reviews. Doug Zawisza from CBR praised the issue for providing Power Girl with a clear purpose and potential for growth, calling it a "fun, bombastic superhero title" that could appeal to a wide audience. He noted that while its suitability for all ages remains to be seen, the story effectively presents a strong lead character facing meaningful challenges. [7] In contrast, Dan Phillips from IGN criticized the issue for not fully realizing its potential. While he acknowledged the excitement of a plot involving Power Girl battling an evil gorilla in Manhattan, he felt the writing hindered the comic's fun and energetic aspects. Phillips suggested that a more straightforward approach could have enhanced the overall experience. [6] Later, Doug Zawisza praises the following issues 2 and 3 for establishing Power Girl's presence in New York and effectively reimagining "an old villain." He highlights the engaging narrative, which balances humor and emotional depth. [8] [9]

As the series progresses, Chad Nevett reviews issue 7, acknowledging its entertainment value despite relying on clichés. He appreciates the humor and charm present in the story, particularly noting a strong cliffhanger that keeps readers engaged. [10] In issue 9, he finds the comic reminiscent of classic Spider-Man stories, emphasizing its lighthearted tone and the challenges Power Girl faces in her personal and superhero lives. [11] In issue 10, Miguel Perez from IGN reflects on his regret for not starting the series sooner, noting that he only picked it up at issue #7. He describes Power Girl as one of DC's most overlooked titles and encourages readers, even those who may not be fans of the character, to give it a chance. Perez suggests that readers might be pleasantly surprised by the amount of fun the comic offers. [12]

In issue #11, Timothy Callahan of CBR noted the impending departure of the creative team, suggesting that the series is coming to an end. He acknowledges that while the comic may continue with a new writer and artist, it will likely lack the unique qualities that defined it over the past year. He also emphasizes the rarity of comics that are "smart, funny, whimsical, emotionally-charged, energetic, and boldnjoy it while it lasts. [13]

In issue 14, CBR praised Judd Winick and Sami Basri for building a cast of characters that enriches the story. They highlighted the effective balance between Karen Starr's daily life and Power Girl's adventures. Winick’s straightforward enthusiasm for superhero storytelling comes through, as Karen jumps into action with excitement. The focus on her secret identity adds depth to the story, making it an enjoyable read that the reviewer looks forward to, just like they did with the previous creative team. [14]

Volume. 3 (2023—Present)

According to ICv2, the debut issue, released in November, ranked as the 36th best-selling comic in September 2023. [15] Charlie Ridgely from ComicBook.com noted that the first issue sets the stage with a balance of character development and action, making it enjoyable for new readers praises it as a "fun, fresh start," while GeekDad noting the intriguing dynamic between Paige and Omen, though he raises concerns about Superman's portrayal as more of a mentor than an equal. [16] [17] In the second issue, Ridgely continued to express enthusiasm, calling it an absolute blast with high stakes and fun storytelling. He appreciated that the narrative stands on its own, independent of Superman's adventures. [18] Meanwhile, in Issue 3, Ridgely highlighted Paige's relatability, describing her as complex and messy, making the series one of DC's standout character studies. [19] GeekDad rated it 8.5/10, noting its emotional depth as Paige seeks solace in the Fortress of Solitude, emphasizing the poignant bond formed with an elderly Kryptonian lion. [20]

Issue 4 showcases the development of an ongoing nemesis that elevates Power Girl's character. Ridgely observed that this ongoing saga adds excitement to her narrative [21] , while GeekDad appreciated the thrilling conclusion of the arc where Paige's attempt to aid a dying lion leads to her being possessed by a symbiotic entity, sparking immediate conflict. [22] Issue 5, Ridgely described the installment as a breezy adventure with minimal dialogue, calling it one of the week's most delightful comics. GeekDad rated it 8.5/10, finding it cute and animal-centric, though he noted that the peril faced by animals might overshadow its lightheartedness. The art received praise, and while "fun and experimental," it didn't quite match the timeless charm of classic stories. [23] [24] In issue 6 GeekDad praised the strong dialogue and intriguing plot twists, highlighting Marguerite Sauvage's guest artwork as the issue's standout element. He appreciated how Sauvage's art transitions between her usual gorgeous style and a more cartoony aesthetic to depict an alternate world, enhancing the comic's appeal. [25] Ridgely noted the compelling narrative of Power Girl navigating a new world after losing her powers. While he recognized the issue's effectiveness in setting up future developments, he felt that it lacked excitement at times, serving more as a setup than a thrilling installment. [26]

Collected editions

TitleMaterial collectedPagesPublication dateISBN
Volume 2 (2009—2011)
A New BeginningPower Girl #1–6160April 14, 2010 ISBN   9781401226183
Aliens and ApesPower Girl #7–12144October 6, 2010 ISBN   9781401229108
Bomb SquadPower Girl #13–18144June 22, 2011 ISBN   9781401231620
Old FriendsPower Girl #19–27200February 15, 2012 ISBN   978-1401233655
Power TripJSA Classified #1–4 and Power Girl,#1–12392February 12, 2014 ISBN   9781401243074
Volume 3 (2023—Present)
Power Girl Returns Lazarus Planet: Assault on Krypton #1, Action Comics #1051–1053, Power Girl Special #1, and Knight Terrors: Action Comics #1–288October 3, 2023 ISBN   9781779524072
Electric DreamsPower Girl

#1–7

144August 2024 ISBN   978-1779528148
More Than a CrushPower Girl #8–16136February 2025 ISBN   978-1799500513
Other
Power Girl JSA Classified #1-4, Showcase #97-99 and Secret Origins #11176June 7, 2006 ISBN   9781845762803

See also

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Harley Quinn</span> Character in the DC Universe

Harley Quinn is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm for Batman: The Animated Series as a henchwoman for the Joker, and debuted in its 22nd episode, "Joker's Favor", on September 11, 1992. While intended to appear in one episode, Quinn became a recurring character within the DC Animated Universe (DCAU) as the Joker's sidekick and love interest, and was adapted into DC Comics' canon seven years later, beginning with the one-shot Batman: Harley Quinn #1. Quinn's origin story features her as a former psychologist at Gotham City's Arkham Asylum who was manipulated by and fell in love with the Joker, her patient, eventually becoming his accomplice and lover. The character's alias is a play on the stock character Harlequin from the 16th-century Italian theater commedia dell'arte.

Power Girl, also known as Kara Zor-L, and Karen Starr is a superheroine appearing in American comic books by DC Comics, making her first appearance in All Star Comics #58. Power Girl is the cousin of the superhero Superman, but from an alternate universe in the fictional multiverse in which DC Comics stories are set. Originally hailing from the world of Earth-Two, first envisioned as the home of DC's wartime heroes as published in 1940s comic books, Power Girl becomes stranded in the main universe where DC stories are set, and becomes acquainted with that world's Superman and her own counterpart, Supergirl.

Gurihiru, also credited as Illustrator Unit Gurihiru and Gurihiru Studios, is a Japanese illustration team, consisting of Chifuyu Sasaki and Naoko Kawano. Both originating from Sapporo, Japan, they are currently based in Saitama, mainly working as artists for American comics.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lockjaw (character)</span> Fictional character in Marvel Comics

Lockjaw is a character in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in Fantastic Four #45. He is an Inhuman giant bulldog whose abilities include teleportation. He serves the Inhuman Royal Family as their escort and a loyal protector.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jimmy Palmiotti</span> American writer

James Palmiotti is an American writer and inker of comic books, who also does writing for games, television and film.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Amanda Conner</span> American comics artist and commercial art illustrator

Amanda Conner is an American comics artist and commercial art illustrator. She began her career in the late 1980s for Archie Comics and Marvel Comics, before moving on to contribute work for Claypool Comics' Soulsearchers and Company and Harris Comics' Vampirella in the 1990s. Her 2000s work includes Mad magazine, and such DC Comics characters as Harley Quinn, Power Girl, and Atlee.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Stuart Immonen</span> Canadian comics artist

Stuart Immonen is a Canadian comics artist. He is best known for his work on the Marvel Comics series Nextwave, Ultimate X-Men, The New Avengers, The Amazing Spider-Man, and Ultimate Spider-Man, the DC Comics series Action Comics and The Adventures of Superman, as well as for the original Millarworld series Empress, co-created with Mark Millar. His pencils are usually inked by Wade Von Grawbadger.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jon Kent (DC Comics)</span> Comic book superhero

Jon Kent is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Dan Jurgens, the son of Superman / Clark Kent and Lois Lane, he first appeared in Convergence: Superman #2. Jon is the newest character in the DC Universe to assume the superhero persona of Superboy, and later Superman. As Superboy and Robin, Jon and Damian Wayne, son of Batman / Bruce Wayne, have appeared in several Super Sons comic book series featuring their shared adventures. Jon later takes on the Superman mantle and stars in the comic series Superman: Son of Kal-El.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Milk Wars</span>

"Milk Wars" is a 2018 American comic book crossover published by DC Comics. It features the publisher's core characters—such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman—crossing over with the characters of their imprint Young Animal.

<i>Rogue & Gambit</i> Marvel comic book series

Rogue & Gambit is an American comic book limited series published by Marvel Comics in two volumes. The first volume, created by writer Kelly Thompson and artist Pere Pérez, a five issues released from January to May 2018. In this series, Rogue and Gambit reignite their relationship while investigating the mysterious disappearance of mutants at a vacation resort. This volume draws inspiration from the 90s X-Men comics, particularly in its portrayal of the characters' failed dates.

DC Graphic Novels for Young Adults, formerly known as DC Ink, is an imprint of American comic book publisher DC Comics consisting of original one-shots, graphic novels and reprints of books previously published under other imprints. The imprint intends to present traditional DC Universe characters for young adult readers. The first title of the DC Ink imprint, Mera: Tidebreaker, was published on February 2, 2019 and Batman: Nightwalker was the last title to be published under DC Ink. Wonder Woman: Warbringer, the first title of DC Graphic Novels for Young Adults, was published on January 10, 2020.

<i>Mr. & Mrs. X</i> 2018–19 limited series comic book

Mr. & Mrs. X is a 12-issue comic book limited series published by Marvel Comics between September 2018 and June 2019. Created by writer Kelly Thompson and artists Oscar Bazaldua & Javier Pina, it starred the popular X-Men characters Gambit and Rogue as they settle into married life. The series received generally positive reviews from comic critics.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">DC Graphic Novels for Kids</span>

DC Graphic Novels for Kids, formerly known as DC Zoom, is an imprint of American comic book publisher DC Comics consisting of original one-shots and reprints of books previously published under other imprints. The imprint intends to present traditional DC Universe characters for middle-grade readers. The first title of the DC Zoom imprint, DC Super Hero Girls: Search for Atlantis was published on September 26, 2018. Black Canary: Ignite and Super Sons Book Two: The Foxglove Mission were the last titles to be published under DC Ink. Diana: Princess of the Amazons, the first title of DC Graphic Novels for Kids, was published on January 7, 2020. The first reprint, DC Super Hero Girls: Weird Science was published on July 14, 2020.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jeff the Land Shark</span> Marvel Comics Superhero

Jeff the Land Shark is a character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writer Kelly Thompson and artist Daniele di Nicuolo, the character first appeared in West Coast Avengers vol. 3 #6, but was not named and formally introduced until issue #7. Jeff was originally the pet landshark of the superhero Gwenpool but has since had other caretakers such as Deadpool, Elsa Bloodstone and Kate Bishop.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jody Houser</span> American comics writer

Jody Houser is an American professional comics writer known for her work on adaptations and licensed properties. She was nominated for the Eisner Award in 2017 for her writing in the comic series Faith (2016). Additionally, she was the writer on the second volume of Critical Role: Vox Machina Origins, which became a New York Times best-seller in September 2020.

<i>Batman: White Knight Presents: Red Hood</i> Limited comic book series published by DC Comics

Batman: White Knight Presents: Red Hood is an American comic book published by DC Comics under its Black Label imprint. The two-issue limited series - co-written by Sean Murphy and Clay McCormack, illustrated by Simone Di Meo and George Kambadais, lettered by AndWorld Design and colored by Dave Stewart - began publication on August 2, 2022 and ended on the 23rd of the same month. It is both a spin-off and a prequel to Murphy's Batman: Beyond the White Knight (2022), and is also the sixth installment in his self-titled Murphyverse comic book line.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Dawn of DC</span> 2023 DC Comics relaunch event

Dawn of DC is a 2023 publishing initiative by the American comic book publisher DC Comics of its entire line of ongoing monthly superhero comic book titles. Following the events of the 2022 crossover events Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths and Lazarus Planet, DC Comics started the Dawn of DC line in January 2023 with Action Comics #1051 and concluded with Absolute Power #4.

"Knight Terrors" is an American comic book line-wide crossover event published by DC Comics from July to August 2023. The event is headlined by Joshua Williamson writing the opening and ending one-shots along with the core 4-issue miniseries. The event starts off in Knight Terrors: First Blood, with art by Howard Porter, and ends with Knight Terrors: Night's End. The entire event received positive reviews from critics, with critics praising the story and tie-ins, although there was criticism on the pacing.

"House of Brainiac" is a Superman crossover story arc published by DC Comics in April 2024. The series is co-written by Joshua Williamson with artwork by Rafael Sandoval, Miguel Mendoca, Rico Ossio, and Edwin Galmon.

References

  1. 1 2 3 Renaud, Jeffrey (2009-05-05). "Gray & Palmiotti Talk Power Girl". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  2. 1 2 Comments, Rich Johnston | Last updated | (2023-04-26). "DC Launches Power Girl Series by Leah Williams & Eduardo Pansica". bleedingcool.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  3. ↑ Schreur, Brandon (2023-05-30). "Power Girl Trades Her New Superpowers For an Earth-Shattering Ability". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-14.
  4. ↑ Chappell, Caitlin (2023-05-31). "REVIEW: Power Girl Special #1 Delivers a Uniquely Human Take on the Hero". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-14.
  5. ↑ Garcia, Mayra; Schreur, Brandon (2023-03-28). "Power Girl's New Name Perfectly Comments on Her Latest Journey". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-14.
  6. 1 2 Phillips, Dan (2009-05-07). "Power Girl #1 Review". IGN. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  7. ↑ Zawisza, Doug (2009-05-10). "Power Girl #1". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  8. ↑ McElhatton, Greg (2009-06-23). "Power Girl #2". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  9. ↑ Zawisza, Doug (2009-07-24). "Power Girl #3". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  10. ↑ Nevett, Chad (2009-12-20). "Power Girl #7". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  11. ↑ "Power Girl". CBR. 2024-09-29. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  12. ↑ Perez, Miguel (2010-03-24). "Power Girl #10 Review". IGN. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  13. ↑ Callahan, Timothy (2010-04-22). "Power Girl #11". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  14. ↑ Zawisza, Doug (2010-07-28). "Power Girl #14". CBR. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  15. ↑ "Top 50 Comics - September 2023". icv2.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  16. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2023-09-27). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 9/27/2023". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  17. ↑ Goldfield, Ray (2023-09-26). "Review - Power Girl #1: The Doctor Is In". GeekDad. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  18. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2023-10-25). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 10/25/2023". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  19. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2023-11-29). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 11/29/2023". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  20. ↑ Goldfield, Ray (2023-11-28). "DC This Week Roundup - Superheroes Across Space and Time". GeekDad. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  21. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2023-12-27). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 12/27/2023". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  22. ↑ Goldfield, Ray (2023-12-26). "DC This Week Roundup - Impostors and Illusions". GeekDad. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  23. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2024-01-24). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 1/24/2024". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  24. ↑ Goldfield, Ray (2024-01-23). "DC This Week Roundup - Cats and Chaos". GeekDad. Retrieved 2024-10-13.
  25. ↑ Goldfield, Ray (2024-02-27). "DC This Week Roundup – Threats From Beyond". GeekDad. Retrieved 2024-10-15.
  26. ↑ Magnett, Chase (2024-02-28). "Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 2/28/2024". ComicBook.com. Retrieved 2024-10-15.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.