MISTER MIRACLE

A superhero strives for stasis between his life on Earth and fighting an interdimensional war.

Scott Free, son of the otherworldly Highfather, was raised in the hellish pits of Apokolips as the son of villainous Darkseid in an attempt to foster peace between warring factions. Scott eventually flees the infernal torture, relocating to Earth and assuming the mantle of Mister Miracle, escape artist. Scott marries his love, Big Barda, who shared the same tormented upbringing in Apokolips, and the two begin a family. As the war between Highfather and Darkseid intensifies, Scott navigates the minutiae of marriage, fatherhood, and identity alongside the unrelenting and gruesome war in his home dimension. Comics veterans may recognize Mister Miracle from stints with the Justice League, however this volume that collects a 12-issue narrative arc is also a fine jumping-in point for comics neophytes; even the in-jokes are easily accessible. Tackling issues like suicide, parenting, and war, this offering is better suited for older readers; be sure to get it into the hands of those who enjoy Brian K. Vaughan’s Saga series. While diversity is nearly nonexistent (as most characters are white), the dynamic between Scott and Barda is refreshing; they are a healthy couple who not only communicate well, but also share bloody battles and diaper changes equally.

A solid stand-alone that should have broad teen and adult appeal for those seeking more unusual cape-and-tights fare.