I haven’t hidden the fact that I really like The Adventures of Aero-Girl. From kickstarter to finding a home at Action Lab, I've been following and supporting this series. I was happy that the ending successfully ties everything together and closes out a story that has been enjoyable, heartfelt and amazingly all-ages through and through. Here’s why that’s a big deal: it’s an all-ages take on the tragic hero storyline. Think Spider-Man, think Batman, think of dozens upon dozens of superheroes who all have violent backgrounds involving a death. That’s Aero-Girl’s origin, but it’s been surprisingly kid friendly, but also rewarding to adults. In this issue, the bad guy that got Jackie’s dad killed has launched his big attack on the city. Before that battle can happen though Jackie will have to convince her mom that she can still be a superhero. This scene is wonderful. It’s very important to Jackie’s character development, but it’s also the way her mother has to finally come face to face with the fact that she’s lost her husband. It’s a very touching moment between mother and daughter that’s only trumped by a flashback between Jackie and her father later on.
Since it’s the final issue in the series I’m going to let you read the rest for yourself. I do kind of want to break down a scene towards the end, but then I would need to set the stage and spoil it some for you and I don’t want to do that. Just know that as transparent as it is, it’s actually a very important scene for Jackie. It shows her maturity and also that she’s not quite over her father’s death either, but again it’s really incredible because it’s rewarding for any age group reading it.
That’s what’s been incredible about Dewayne Feenstra’s writing, it’s perfect for all-ages. I think a lot of people think that it’s just a book for kids and so they’re not willing to move past the surface of the story. Again, there’s a lot of deep emotions being played out in this story and that’s something you have to pick up on yourself.
One of the standout features of Aero-Girl is the artwork from Axur Eneas. I absolutely love the design of the world and characters and I was very happy to see new characters introduced as it made the world feel more alive. The quality of the art never dipped and while the battle at the end is fairly quick, it was a rewarding art sequence. The art and coloring really play into the success of this series. I honestly don’t know if I would have liked it as much without this art team.
If you missed out on Aero-Girl I would definitely recommend it. I would even recommend it if it’s your kids first superhero book because it’s sure to get them into comics. I hope this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Aero-Girl because I think this world is rich with content and I would love to see her character journey further down the road.
Score: 4/5
The Adventures of Aero-Girl #4 Writer: Dewayne Feenstra Artist: Axur Eneas Publisher: Action Lab Entertainment Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/2/15 Format: Mini-Series; Print/Digital