cover image Martian Manhunter, Vol. 1: The Epiphany

Martian Manhunter, Vol. 1: The Epiphany

Rob Williams, Eddy Barrows, and Eber Ferreira. DC, $14.99 trade paper (160p) ISBN 978-1-4012-6151-1

Williams (Star Wars) provides readers with a fascinating new perspective on one of the more enigmatic figures of the Justice League: J’onn J’onzz, aka Martian Manhunter. Despite his ties to the Justice League, J’onzz finds himself in a quandary when an alien invasion threatens to expose the true purpose of his existence, and J’onzz must find a way to prevent himself from fulfilling his destiny. What makes the tale so engaging is how Williams and artists Barrows (Birds of Prey, Countdown to Adventure) and Ferreira (Teen Titans) present readers with an array of visually striking and provocative characters, including the poverty-stricken cat burglar Pearl and the irresistibly bizarre entity known as Mr. Biscuits. Barrows and Ferreira provide an exquisite amount of detail while keeping the energy level high and never sacrificing the story, which gives a whole new context to a character often relegated to punch lines. (Mar.)