Hawkman: Allies & Enemies

Rating:
Summary: Starman Part Deux!
Review: "Starman" by James Robinson was my favourite comic for many, many years. In fact, it was the book that introduced me to the fascinating world of DC Comics' "Golden Age" and its colourful characters. I was genuinely distressed when it ended some years back (and I'm not alone, check out the reviews on the many "Starman" TPBs to see that). Therefore, I am genuinely thankful that James Robinson is continuing his magic (with Geoff Johns, another of my favourite writers) on the newly revived "Hawkman" title.

While the first volume ("Endless Flight") helped to introduce us to the characters and the city of St. Roch, this second volume is where the book actually takes flight. Those who loved "Starman" for its many "Times Past" storyline will be pleased to know that the same thing is happening here in "Hawkman" with its "Lives Past" (the first of which is reprinted here with Hawkman/Hawkgirl in the old West). This volume also reintroduced the "Gentleman Ghost" Jim Craddock, a Golden Age villain who bears comparison to the great character of The Shade in "Starman". All in all, like "Starman", we again have a book that is truly modern and yet is rooted in history - paying homage to the work of "Times Past".

Further bonus: The Atom guest stars in this book, Hawkgirl discovers the truth behind her parents' murder and we see some real developments in the relationship between Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Finally, the whole package is presented to us by the breath-takingly beautiful art of Rags Morales (inked by Michael Bair) and Don Kramer. The equally gorgeous painted covers by Andrew Robinson and John Watson are included in the back of the book.

This book is heartily recommended to everyone who loves the romance, chivalry and rich history of superhero comics.

Rating:
Summary: Starman Part Deux!
Review: "Starman" by James Robinson was my favourite comic for many, many years. In fact, it was the book that introduced me to the fascinating world of DC Comics' "Golden Age" and its colourful characters. I was genuinely distressed when it ended some years back (and I'm not alone, check out the reviews on the many "Starman" TPBs to see that). Therefore, I am genuinely thankful that James Robinson is continuing his magic (with Geoff Johns, another of my favourite writers) on the newly revived "Hawkman" title.

While the first volume ("Endless Flight") helped to introduce us to the characters and the city of St. Roch, this second volume is where the book actually takes flight. Those who loved "Starman" for its many "Times Past" storyline will be pleased to know that the same thing is happening here in "Hawkman" with its "Lives Past" (the first of which is reprinted here with Hawkman/Hawkgirl in the old West). This volume also reintroduced the "Gentleman Ghost" Jim Craddock, a Golden Age villain who bears comparison to the great character of The Shade in "Starman". All in all, like "Starman", we again have a book that is truly modern and yet is rooted in history - paying homage to the work of "Times Past".

Further bonus: The Atom guest stars in this book, Hawkgirl discovers the truth behind her parents' murder and we see some real developments in the relationship between Hawkman and Hawkgirl. Finally, the whole package is presented to us by the breath-takingly beautiful art of Rags Morales (inked by Michael Bair) and Don Kramer. The equally gorgeous painted covers by Andrew Robinson and John Watson are included in the back of the book.

This book is heartily recommended to everyone who loves the romance, chivalry and rich history of superhero comics.