Happy Saturday y’all! We have more graphic novels to share today 😀 This one features my husband’s favorite superhero, Batman. With a new twist on the origins of the vigilante, Batman Overdrive will appeal to kids of all ages.
I received this book via YA Book Central. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Batman: Overdrive by Shea FontanaIllustrator: Marcelo DiChiara
Published by DC Comics on 2020-03-03
Length: 152 pages
Reviewing Paperback from YA Book Central
Rating:
Who was Bruce Wayne before Batman?
Driven to solve the mystery of his parents' murders, teenage loner Bruce Wayne hones his detective and combat skills as he scours the underbelly of Gotham. Feeling responsible for their deaths, Bruce is determined to find out who was really behind this crime in order to absolve himself of the guilt he feels. As part of his crusade and in tribute to his loving father, Bruce decides to rebuild his dad's first car. But Bruce quickly discovers that he can't do this alone, and it forces him to open himself up to new friendships and challenges, ultimately leading him to what he desires most: freedom!
From the writer Shea Fontana (DC Super Hero Girls, Wonder Woman) and artist Marcelo DiChiara (DC Super Hero Girls, Teen Titans Go!), Batman: Overdrive is a heartfelt story touching on the importance of friendship, trust, and forgiveness.
Batman Overdrive by Shea Fontana is a re-imagining of Batman’s origins. A young, pre-Batman Bruce Wayne is at the beginning of his vigilante lifestyle as he deals with his grief over the loss of both his parents. With the help of a few friends, Bruce begins remodeling his dad’s old car into what will become the Batmobile while he investigates his parents’ murders.
What I Liked:
I liked the style of the comics, the easy to read typeface, and engaging illustrations. The mystery surrounding the Waynes’ death drove the story, along with Bruce’s guilt and grief. I liked seeing Selina Kyle as a young kid before she becomes Catwoman. That was an interesting twist to the story, one that adds a bit of irony if you are familiar with the characters.
What Left Me Wanting:
I was not a fan of how Bruce treats Alfred. Maybe because I associate Alfred with a father-like figure who always looks out for and loves Bruce, but Bruce believes Alfred had something to do with his parents’ murder. It was an unfair leap, and one that distracted from the story for me.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, I liked Batman Overdrive. It’s not like any of the other Batman comics I’ve read so it definitely will stand out. While it is geared towards kids 7 and up, the darker undertones may scare younger readers. It is a fast-paced adventure for one of our favorite vigilantes, creating a whole new storyline for the Batman.
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