Monumental Event
It’s a monumental event for the Amazing Amazon who I’ve adored over two decades as Wonder Woman celebrates her 600
issue! The Amazon Princess’ publisher, DC Comics, commemorates this event with much style with a double-sized issue put together by some of the hottest creators in the comic book industry. The two highlights of #600 are the first and last mini-stories as current WONDER WOMAN writer, Gail Simone, weaves her last tale of DC’s premier heroine with former WONDER WOMAN writer/artist superstar, George Perez.
The story is short, simple really, but with tons of impact as Princess Diana leads a small army of superheroines in battle to protect the White House. Wonder Woman is followed without question by these women of all ages and powers, a great example of Diana’s role in the DC universe. There isn’t time for the Amazon to accept gratitude or applause when the battle ends because Diana has a very special event to attend in Boston, MA. In a matter of moments, Diana arrives states away just in time for her “little sister”, Vanessa (the young woman who first adopted the princess as family when the Amazon came to “Man’s World” some years ago), to give her valedictorian speech in front of her graduating class. A tender moment is shared with readers between Vanessa and Diana and we’re given a glimpse at just how special a friend Diana of Paradise Island truly is. A superb farewell from Ms. Simone!
There’s some fill-in material from others various writers and artists, unfortunately none of who have really worked with the Amazing Amazon much in the past. It would have been great to see former WONDER WOMAN creators work with Diana one last time, but no go. Though the final chapter of this issue proves interesting as new writer, J. Michael Straczynski, and penciller, Don Kramer, introduce a new storyline beginning in issue #601. I’ll withhold opinions and a synopsis till the new issue is in my hands, since as of this writing I’m still unsure of my initial feelings towards this new direction. At least it proved … intriguing.
WONDER WOMAN is a title I have followed diligently since my childhood – I’m now twenty-eight. In this time there have been definite ups and downs in the career of the Amazon Princess from Paradise Island, but issue #600 will always hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to another six hundred issues and the fantastic adventures ahead!
~ Hype
