“Curveballs”
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Todd Nauck
Color Artist: Matt Herms
Letterer: Rob Leigh
Review by: Kendra Smart
Justice Society of America #12 is a goodbye on many different levels. With this issue it is Geoff Johns last tale with the JSA. Sincere and heartfelt, Johns delivers with his character driven writing in the spotlight. Todd Nauck, artist for Stargirl, joins us for this special 25th anniversary issue. Courtney Whitmore is the narrator and spotlight for Justice Society of America #12, with that in mind let us begin.
The Dance We Shared
When Justice Society of America #12 starts out, we are on a baseball field with the narrator discussing curveballs in their comparison to the issues and situations that life can sometimes throw our way. As the discussion continues we see Courtney dressed for graduation, addressing her peers with some of her own insight into the relationships we build. As her conversation continues we are treated to a walk down memory lane for Courtney.
Through memories of past battles, such as 1999’s Stargirl and S.T.R.I.P.E. battle against Shiv and Dragon King, other such battles with not only the JSA but other teams such as Teen Titans, and The Justice League. A strut down memory lane not just for Courtney, but certainly for Geoff Johns too. But Courtney also gives a wholesome view of her relationship with Pat Dugan, a.k.a S.T.R.I.P.E., as not only her Step Father but also her teammate and partner. It is time to move forward, take your tassels and turn them to the other side. Congratulations on your graduation Blue Valley High students!
It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye
Geoff Johns really gives us a performance with Justice Society of America #12, showing us bittersweet, character- driven moments that fall on both sides of the page beautifully on display. Todd Nauck gives the same as he gives wonderful double page spreads of great moments in heroism. Matt Herms graces the words and art bringing nostalgia and modern in check with his palette choices. Justice Society of America #12 strums all the heartstrings in a bittersweet symphony.
Seeing Courtney graduate is a wonderful moment because of the layers. She has grown in so many ways over the years, as a woman, as a daughter, as a sister, and also as a hero. Justice Society of America #12 is a great closing spotlight with Mikel Janin giving readers another fine cover, fit for the issue. But there are also special variant covers, including one by Todd Nauck.
Conclusion
If there is one element of story telling that I love, it is character building in the art of reflection. The choice to have Courtney showcase the different levels and vantage points of what family can be is wholesome. It is wonderful as a fan of comics to see these issues of reflection because we get to revisit massive moments in time to see them through the lens of another perspective. To gain a better understanding of not only characters, but maybe seeing a bit of ourselves there for the ride. Thank you Geoff. You and the team have made many magical moments.
It will be interesting to see what’s to come next with Jeff Lemire and Diego Olortegui will have in store for the JSA!
Images Provided Courtesy of DC Entertainment.
