The Good
If you haven't been reading this book, you're either silly or simply can't add anything to your pull list, which is also silly. This issue of MS MARVEL is an utter delight as Kamala tries to become the hero she's always dreamed of becoming. MS. MARVEL is a fun book, full of whimsy that will put a smile on anyone's face.
Issue #5 has Kamala facing off against some folks working for The Inventor. She's trying to rescue her friend Vick from these thugs and she doesn't really have what it takes to do it, yet. What really sets this book apart from the others is that the reader is on the journey with Kamala. There are plenty of new characters at Marvel right now, but none of them really make the reader feel part of the adventure of their books like writer G Willow Wilson does with Kamala. We're treated to a montage of Kamala trying out her powers to become a hero, which really could use a sweet backing track. (Suggest your own in the comments. I say Paul Stanley's "Live to Win" would work)
It's exciting to watch this character grow into her new mantle and not just know how to do everything right off the bat. We get a lot of not just Kamala trying to become a hero but her figuring out that juggling her life at home, as well as her life as a hero can be a daunting task.
Another aspect of this book, which readers will get to see every month in this series, is Kamala's home life. It's cool to see into another culture's home life, and this part of the book is something that has me coming back month after month, aside from those other aspects of the book, like a compelling character, solid story telling, and the wonderful art.
The art is another aspect of this book that's full of win. Artist Adrian Alphona with Ian Herring on color do a great job here, and their style lends extremely well to the tone of the book, which is a bit more upbeat and fun. The final splash page of this issue, which is a reveal of a new character, is pretty awesome and has shades of Rob Guillory's work on CHEW.
The Bad
There's little to dislike about this book and series, which I hate writing in reviews, but as far as new characters and new series go, this is full of win.
The Verdict
MS MARVEL #5 balances new characters, new powers, and intriguing stories insanely well. Where most books tent to struggle, MS MARVEL stands high. Kamala is a character who is easy to connect with, since most folks reading comics all dreamed of being a hero one day. She's a great driving force of this book and Wilson has crafted such an exciting and fun book to read. If you haven't read this book yet, catch up or pick up the trade when it's released. I highly recommend this issue.
