Ms. Marvel (2015) #4
Previously in Ms. Marvel #3
This first part of the “Army of One” arc is probably one of the best comic books I’ve ever read - not just the best issue of Ms. Marvel. It’s also one of the most important comic books ever.
When Aamir and Tyesha reveal their plans to get married to his family, Kamala is thrilled. It’s been a rough few weeks for our heroine and who doesn’t love a wedding? However, Ammi and Abu are decidedly less enthusiastic and they have legitimate reasons: Aamir doesn’t have a job and they don’t know Tyesha or her “situation.”
This all plays out over four pages of perfection. From Kamala and Aamir’s worry that maybe their parents might have an issue with Tyesha because she’s black (Tyesha’s “I kind of hate this conversation” was hilarious), to Tyesha earnestly pointing out how much she and Aamir respect each other, every line, every panel was a joy. Leave it to Wilson to deliver scenes that are heartbreaking, loving, educational, and funny as hell.
When the Khans learn Aamir and Tyesha plan on living with them until they’re on their feet, all is forgiven. They’re overjoyed to have the couple follow their traditions. Kamala? Not so much. A crowded house caught up in the chaos of wedding planning is the last thing Kamala needs when she’s trying to raise her math grade and fight crime as an Avenger.
It doesn’t help that one member of the team thinks Kamala is too young, too green, and in over her head.
Kamala believes she’s found the answer to her be-everywhere-at-once problem when Bruno reveals he can replicate Loki’s lightning golems using a 3D printer. She convinces her bestie to make several clones to attend class and fulfill her other obligations so she can focus on being a better Avenger. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear as though Bruno (or Kamala) will be able to control them.
Ms. Marvel #4
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Plot - 10/1010/10
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Dialogue - 10/1010/10
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Art - 10/1010/10
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Back Matter - 10/1010/10
Summary
Give this book to anyone who thinks comic books aren’t for girls or women. Give this book to anyone who doesn’t understand that representation matters. Give this book to anyone who fails to understand that Muslims want the same things we all want for our families - unfortunately, those people exist.
There were so many small touches that made this book a delight to read: Aamir’s single finger pointing at Tyesha’s and co-signing everything she said as she explained their relationship to his parents; Kamala’s Wolverine slippers (WANT!), the Kamran shade from Aamir, Zoe and Nakia still being friends, and lovely Mike showing concern for Kamala.
You can tell the creators of this series really understand who Kamala is, and they’ve done an excellent job of making the supporting characters just as fully realized. Nico Leon’s art is also extremely well done and I find myself going over each page a second or third time to soak in all the beautiful details. With such a strong start, I can’t wait to see where the this new arc goes.
I read #1 not to long ago. It was pretty good.