Review by Ian Keogh

The entry level portal to DC’s superheroes continues with a first look at Mera and Raven in graphic novel form, and a greater acknowledgement of boys in the form of Beast Boy and Cyborg both taking a supporting role.

No sooner is Mera introduced than she discovers Atlantis is missing in the shock ending to the opening chapter, but Brainiac is rapidly revealed as the culprit, requiring a mission into space to recover the city. It’s a step up from previous DC Super Hero Girls graphic novels with Shea Fontana toning down both the pep and the messages, although the latter isn’t yet to a level of subtlety, with Bumblebee’s jealousy the issue up for modification. Seeing as moralising is the tone taken in this series, perhaps more care could have been taken with Miss Martian’s inferiority complex. A praising pep talk isn’t going to work long term in the real world, so is it the best solution to be provided here? The plot is a big improvement on previous efforts, with good twists and a viable plight once the rescue mission’s completed.

There’s never been a problem with Yancey Labat’s art. He pitches the action and violence at the correct level for the young audience, and ensures the characters are perky and smiling most of the time. It’s not realism, but that’s not the intention, and the cheerful look of the art is completed by the bright colouring of Monica Kubina.

Search for Atlantis provides thrills without overdosing the preaching, but that could still be toned down. A new Green Lantern joins the cast next in Spaced Out.