Batgirl #1

Batgirl #1
Written by Bryan Q. Miller
Pencils by Lee Garbett
Inks by Trevor Scott
Colors by Guy Major
Published by DC Comics

Well, a new Batgirl has hit the streets of Gotham like a Batgirl out of hell. Who is she? What are her ties?

Spoilers are officially on.

The issue starts with a scene out of Fast and Furious with some illegal street racing until Batgirl shows up and bursts up the scene. She's sloppy, as Batman and Robin watch her from afar. Damian notes that this isn't the former leader of the League of Assassins. No, she's "not as good as the other Batgirl", states Dick. Whether Dick means Barbara Gordon or Cassandra Cain is unclear, but we soon learn who she is. Ready for a spoiler? How about are you ready for THE Spoiler as the new Batgirl?

Yes, it's true. Stephanie Brown, former Spoiler, is the new Batgirl. I'll have to admit, she wasn't my first choice, but I think this makes sense. I'm glad it's a member of the extended Bat-family and not some random new character that comes out of nowhere. On another note, it's interesting that this assignment should go to Stephanie, since she supposedly didn't want to continue her vigilante ways. I guess old habits are hard to break. Though, I think how Stephanie inherits the mantle is a bit on the weak side.

This issue just isn't Stephanie's story. What would be a Batgirl title without Barbara Gordon making an appearance or two? Bryan Q. Miller handles these characters with dignity and poise, plus it was nice to see Babs kick a little ass. Lee Garbett's art seems a bit unfinished in some places, but his panel construction adds an easy flow to the story.

The end of Batgirl #1 is exactly what I wanted to see. It's a solid debut issue with an excellent reintroduction to an oft-maligned character. If you're a Bat-fan, you owe it to yourself to give this a try. It's a little bit more lighthearted than what has been going on in the other titles, but just as effective in delivering action and suspense.