Hey, comic fans! Thanks for joining me for another edition of Quintessential Comics! This “issue” we’re going to focus on characters that might get overlooked when scouring the shelves looking for that next graphic novel fix. These characters come from both Marvel and DC, so there’s sure to be something you’ll like! I’m not listing anything “indy,” as you really should get out there and read about anything from Image, Darkhorse, etc. The criteria I’m using for these picks are that they are characters that aren’t prominent features in many series, they might have a series of their own, and could possibly have a unique or interesting backstory. I hope you enjoy!
“Squirrel Girl”
Now, I know that Squirrel Girl might have a pretty devoted following, but for those of you that aren’t very familiar with the character this might be a good place to start. Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, has the ability to, you guessed it, communicate with squirrels. Believing herself to be a mutant for quite some time, Squirrel Girl is actually the result of an unknown genetic modification that left her with a bushy tail. Teaming up with her trusty sidekicks Monkey Joe and Tippy-Toe, Doreen has taken down some of Marvel’s biggest threats, including the Mad Titan Thanos. If you’re looking for a healthy dose of zany and adorable fun, check this one out! If you doubt the awesome might of Squirrel Girl, be sure to hop on over to Marvel’s official website, where you’ll see that she has official ratings of 7/7 in all categories!
“Swamp Thing”
Do you like plants? Do you like comics? Well, I assume the latter if you’re reading this. So, why not read a comic about a scientist turned plant elemental who
exacts vengeance upon those who would harm the environment? Alec Holland, while working on an experimental regenerative formula, is murdered. Not long after, a shambling behemoth emerges from the nearby swamps that seems to possess both the memories and personality of Holland. This monstrous entity is known as the Swamp Thing! Due to the nature of the character, Swamp Thing comics allow for some really interesting storytelling. This is usually complete with plenty of body horror, if that’s your (swamp) thing. These stories often focus on environmental threats and issues, which isn’t something you see often in comics. Also, there was a CW show that seemed to receive pretty positive reviews. Unfortunately, it only lasted a season or two. Don’t let that stop you from checking this one out though!
“Moon Knight”
To prepare yourself for the release of the Marvel television series starring none other than Oscar Isaac, be sure to check out this entry. Moon Knight, aka Marc Spector, is an ex-marine, ex-CIA operative, ex-mercenary that was gifted with powers from the moon god Khonshu. Yes. Moon powers. Spector is also an expert martial combatant and has a rather high intelligence along with a slew of gadgets. So, pretty much Batman if he was obsessed with lunar cycles instead of bats. Unfortunately, Marc dealt with a fair bit of trauma as a child, narrowly escaping the clutches of a serial killer. This event caused him to develop DID (Disassociate Identity Disorder). This means that Moon Knight possesses a number of distinct personalities that manifest depending on the situation. So, he must contend with his own demons all while protecting the innocent. Such an interesting character that explores mental illness deserves some recognition, so get reading!
“Birds of Prey”
So, maybe you’ve seen the movie. Maybe you’ve even watched Arrow and have enjoyed Black Canary on there. Maybe you’re already a huge Batgirl fan. If any of
these describe you, then why not check out some “Birds of Prey?!” Originally founded by Barbara Gordon (aka Batgirl), who was going by Oracle at the time, and Black Canary, this team has hosted various members over time such as Huntress, Katana, Vixen, Big Barda, and others. When the team was first created, Barbara was still dealing with the fallout of her encounter with the Joker, having been paralyzed by him. Still wanting to fight the good fight, she teamed up with other costumed heroines, taking on the role of team coordinator. If you are interested in seeing Batgirl overcome one of the defining tragedies in her life while leading a team of highly skilled and sometimes volatile teammates, you don’t wanna miss out on this one.
“Animal Man”
Animal Man, Animal Man. He can do anything an animal can. That’s it. That’s my review. Really, though, good old Buddy Baker is a guy who can harness the awesome abilities of any animal he is in the presence of! This is because he is the champion of The Red, which is some comics mumbo jumbo that equates to the Force from Star Wars, but for animals. What makes Baker a compelling character isn’t that he is a walking smorgasbord of animal goodness, but that he is a pretty relatable family man that’s just trying to do the best for the ones he loves. This doesn’t always prove easy when you’re on call to help the Justice League take on Amazo. The particular series that we have here at the library is written by Jeff Lemire, who has worked on “Sweet Tooth,” and is illustrated by Travel Foreman. Foreman’s depictions of some of the events that transpire in these books are pretty wild. So, you’ve been warned. However, the tone and content of these stories is something different. If you’re into that, take a look!
