Deron Generally
Deron Generally
The Other History of the DC Universe #3
DC Comics
Written by John Ridley
Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Andrea Cucchi
Colors by Jose Villarrubia
Letters by Steve Wands
The Rundown: Forged in the fire of her own pain, Katana makes a name for herself in a world that works to define her.
Katana recounts the circumstances that turned her into a legendary, almost mythical assassin after the murder of her husband and children. She recounts her life and the people in it who not only impacted it when she was living in her pain, but also those that helped her see a life past it. Intercut between moments in her life that shaped the hero she would become, she highlights the history of Asians in America as she takes a personal journey to learn more about the country she decides to defend.
Katana recounts her personal journey of redemption as well as revenge as she thinks of how her legend grew in the mind of others despite the truth known only to herself.
The Story: This issue is powerful on many levels. Not only does Ridley highlight the history of the character, but also the stereotypes that formed the character and her interpretation in comics. It also highlights the reality of Asian sentiment in the United States during the time the character was being featured. A not so subtle comparison to how Katana is perceived. What is even more interesting is how her story is tied to that of other characters at the expense of her own development. It’s a powerful indictment on how to marginalize a character.
The Art: Camuncoli and Cucchi deliver some beautiful art throughout the issue. There are great visual moments that harken back to great eras in comic history.
The Other History of the DC Universe #3
