Sarah Kuhn and Nicole Goux’s Shadow of the Batgirl reimagines the story of Cassandra Cain’s origin as Batgirl. The story begins with Cassandra – raised to be a mute assassin by her father – hearing a target say the word “daughter” while pleading for his life. It triggers something in her that drives her to flee her life as a weapon, seeking shelter in a library. She meets Jackie, an older woman who runs a Japanese restaurant, and Barbara Gordon, who teaches at the library. Cassandra discovers a found family through them, figuring out who she wants to be and finding ways to connect with those around her.

Like other retellings from DC’s YA original graphic novel line, Shadow of the Batgirl honors what preceded it while offering a story free to explore core characters and introduce them to new readers. Kuhn, an accomplished storyteller, brings more to Cassandra Cain’s narrative to honor the character’s Asian-American heritage. Artist Goux and colorist Cris Peter bring Kuhn’s story to vibrant life with dynamic character and location designs. In particular, they take full advantage of the library setting’s scale for splash pages depicting action. Finally, Janice Chiang and Saida Temofonte’s letters neatly punctuate the dialogue and captions. ( )

* I got this book for review for the publisher for my honest thoughts*

I really loved this read and its take on cassandra cain an batgirl. I also really loved the art style that was created for this graphic novel. I also loved how this graphic novel focused on found family, assisan life. I also like exploring the the batgirl myth. That standout to me was the found fnaimy element and I will def check out more volumes of this series in the future. I really liked her as a character. ( )

* I got this book for review for the publisher for my honest thoughts*

I really loved this read and its take on cassandra cain an batgirl. I also really loved the art style that was created for this graphic novel. I also loved how this graphic novel focused on found family, assisan life. I also like exploring the the batgirl myth. That standout to me was the found fnaimy element and I will def check out more volumes of this series in the future. I really liked her as a character. ( )

Quick and easy read. Never read Batgirl comics before so I can’t compare to original. It was an easy read, a gradual shift of character growth from machine to being able to express her free will to choose and decide her path. No need for the romance part. Loved the grandma figure. I liked how Barbara helped Cass realize her superpower. I would read the next in the series if there is one, to see what happens next. ( )

Cassandra Cain was raised to be an assassin and knows no other life. But maybe there’s another way for her to be? She starts observing others around her, including library staffer Barbara Gordon who talks a lot about the now retired Batgirl. This leaves Cassandra wondering if she could maybe, just maybe, become a hero herself.

Origin stories are a lot of fun, especially when authors really run with them to create new characters and situations for our beloved superheroes. Cassandra’s murky background makes her doubt herself, but she keeps pushing for better – a lesson we can all use to remember. While there are certainly dark and serious scenes in this book, there’s also light romance and moments of humor. I got a good chuckle when Cassandra’s first attempt at superhero-ing was to give those who leave food garbage around the library a well-deserved comeuppance. Litterers beware: Batgirl will make sure you clean up! ( )