Batgirl: Year One

It was OK. This volume contains the nine issues that tell Barbara Gordon's Batgirl origin story. The premise was good, but if felt a little too Grrr Grrl Power! to me. I also found it a little difficult to tell what Barbara's age actually was. One minute she is working as a researcher, and the next she in her bedroom which resembled a young teenager's. Her interaction with Batman and Robin seemed a little weird, too. Batman imo was a bit of a jerk. I'm not sure why he had to be all underhanded and secretive about testing Batgirl, even while he was hoping she would quit. I just feel like he could have been more positive. (I know, its Batman. Sigh.)

There were other issues I found too. I guess it felt a little all over the place. But still, I love Batgirl, so her origin story is sort of required reading.

Such a fun read!!! I loved the writing and the dialogue here. Plus, it was great to see an updated version of Batgirl's origins. I enjoyed the non-linear format of the story, and I was able to easily relate to her. I thought all the Oracle references dropped throughout the novel were very entertaining.

The only thing that was a bit lacking for me was the art. It felt a little stationary to me, but I really appreciated the simplicity (sometimes overly detailed comics give me a headache).

Bottom line: I had mixed feelings about the art, but A++ to the writing. Overall, great read for Batgirl fans =)