Graphic Novel of the Week!! Batgirl Vol.1: by Gail Simone & Ardian Syaf

As a reader of comic books since 1974, and someone who loves many of the DC Comics superheroes like the Superman and Batman families of characters, this week's graphic novel collects an amazing storyline about Batgirl. Gail Simone is one of my favorite comic book writers and when she was given the reigns of a new Batgirl series in 2011, it became the best-ever version of Batgirl I have ever enjoyed in 37 years! I recently bought the first graphic novel from the series (I have the comic books) and loved it all over again. It's my highly recommended Graphic Novel! 

In Gail Simone's version of Batgirl, it picks up after Barbara Gordon (Batgirl's civilian identity) finally regained her ability to walk after being shot point blank by the Joker many years before. The writing was solid, and showed how Batgirl struggled with her physical limitations as she regained her ability to fight crime. The storylines were gripping, the characters exciting, and the artwork by Ardian Syaf was fantastic! 5 of 5 Stars. 

SIDE NOTE - When Gail Simone's run ended, DC Comics did something really stupid with the Batgirl character. They relaunched the character from a 30-something year old with super computer tech skills and connections Batman, Robin, Nightwing and others, to a 16 year old girl (She was NEVER a 16 year old in the comics- she was always and adult). They also made the artwork look like a saturday morning cartoon. They absolutely destroyed the great character that Gail Simone created. Needless to say, I never read Batgirl again. But this collection preserves the BEST Batgirl, ever.

ABOUT THE BOOK - Batgirl Vol. 1: The Darkest Reflection (The New 52) by Gail Simone (Author), Ardian Syaf (Illustrator), Vincente Vincente (Illustrator) 

As a part of the acclaimed DC Comics—The New 52 event of September 2011, Barbara Gordon is finally back as Batgirl! The nightmare-inducing brute known as Mirror is destroying the lives of Gotham City citizens seemingly at random. Will Barbara be able to survive her explosive confrontation with this new villain, as well as facing dark secrets from her past? A new chapter in the riveting adventures of Batgirl continue in stunning fashion, with script by fan-favorite Gail Simone and stellar art by superstar Ardian Syaf! 

This volume collects issues 1-6 of Batgirl, part of the DC Comics—The New 52 event.