Super Sikh

Deep Singh is a hard-working schmoe just looking to visit Graceland. Too bad he’s also an international man of mystery being hunted by the sinister forces of Group X. Can he, with the help of his genius cousin Preeti, a great many friends, and a beautiful stranger named Janelle finally reach the peak of Elvis fanhood without being taken down by terrorist bigotry? This is undoubtedly a send-up of lantern-jawed action heroism, but it’s a loving one: Deep is comically overpowered, but readers just can’t help but root for him after watching him cheer on an Elvis impersonator. In counterpoint, the book skewers the infantile pseudomasculinity that fuels extremism, personified by Group X’s leader, murky villain Salar Al Amok. His naked hatred of all that makes him feel small is among the most resonant aspects of the story. Unfortunately, though the line art is strong, the lettering and coloring look more like a first draft than a finished product. With refinement, however, Deep Singh could have a long and vibrant future as an independent action hero—and, of course, as an Elvis devotee. (Feb.)