DC Comics reviews 12/19/23 – Nightwing #109, Superman #9

Jay Garrick The Flash #3

How to make better DC Comics? Let Jeremy Adams write more of them. That’s not a bad solution as Adams brings the sense of wonder, fun and adventure that’s missing out of too many mainstream comics. This issue finds Jay’s daughter, Judy, trying to make sense of her encounter with Dr. Elemental.

In a lot of ways, Adams feels like DC’s current day Geoff Johns. Johns was responsible for fixing so many broken aspects of DC continuity and weaving it in a way that makes sense. With Johns departing to fortify his Ghost Machine brand, Adams seems like the likely successor to the role of DC’s standard bearer. The writer capable of making even the most questionable decision worthwhile.

The flashback sequences with the Justice Society were a lot of fun. Adams would be a stellar choice to do a vintage 1940s era JSA comic. He gets the old school tone that’s completely devoid of the more cynical trappings of modern writers. And Adams easily conveys that to the current day with the interactions with Stargirl, Mr. Terrific, Fairplay and Quiz Kid.

Diego Olortegui’s artwork is similar to Todd Nauck, who helped Johns usher in this new generation of younger sidekicks in Stargirl and The Lost Children. Olortegui’s style is light without being overly cartoony. His art and colorist Luis Guerrero and letterer Steve Wands embrace the classic tone of the story.

The formula for this book isn’t too complicated with a creative team that understands how to deliver on their respective roles. DC editors really need to consider expanding Adams’ role in the larger comic universe as he’s one of their most reliably enjoyable writers capable of writing comics readers want to read.

Rating: 9 out of 10