This is a book that doesn’t exactly leave me with a lot of war
m fuzzies. And that’s probably because of all the offensive language seen here. So I really wouldn’t recommend this for young readers cause of that or for the easily offended for that matter. And if you’re the type who looks down on Black People, then this really won’t be for you. As not only is this about Black People, but its about only them having powers. Which is a fairly nice concept and feels kinda like X-Men. Only without various races and the like getting powers and it just being one race. Though I am curious if one still gets powers if they are of mixed race origins or if its just full on Black People only. Something I hope we get to see explored in the future if this continues on for a goo
d long while. Our main character, Kareem Jenkins, has found his young self in a brand new situation. One that began when he was unnecessarily shot down by a cop not bothering to do his job correctly back in issue 1.
One could say even using more force then necessary to when he shot Kareem and his friends. Which I can only imagine how that would resonate with quite a few people in today’s world considering all the crap that’s been going on lately where the Police and Black People are concerned. Kareem ends up finding out that he’s a lot more special then he realizes after he wakes up in the ambulance. Pity he had to find out in a horrible way though! And as time goes on, its clear that Kareem is a very special case when it comes to abilities. A special case that is clearly being watched for very carefully by both his new found allies and The Man. Yes, I know that’s tacky but that’s the best way to describe the opposition. Course I could always go with his organization known as Mann Co. as the preferred name instead. And if Kareem’s not careful, The Man will do absolutely anything to ensure Kareem’s within his control.
And cause of Kareem’s age and recent experiences, its easy to see why he would jump the gun where his new found friends are concerned when it feels like they are doing some dodgy things. Though O as we learn the main leader’s name of the good guys, known as Juncture, is no Professor Xavier but he does have something of a point about putting a very dangerous flammable and angry guy elsewhere so as to prevent potential problems. Whether or not he see’s things in only black and white remains to be clear however and if that’s the case, it hopefully it won’t get him killed. I do feel this book could benefit from the addition of colors so we can tell who is who more clearly when it comes to race. But that’s just me. And as for Detective Waters? I’m very curious as to see where her journey in the story takes her. Especially where Kareem is concerned.
Battle lines are being drawn, distrust is beginning to run high on Kareem’s part, and secrets are possibly beginning to get uncovered. And this is only the beginning after this third issue! So for those of you who want some Diversity in your comics, don’t go for the Big Two for that, go for this from Black Mask. Go for this and many other Independent titles out there that explores Diversity as I promise you won’t regret it. This book also came out today as well, so if there’s still time and you haven’t yet, head back to your LCS and get this and the previous two issues!
BLACK #3
Black Mask
Writer: Kwanza Osajyefo
Designer: Tim Smith 3
Artist: Jamal Igle
Cover by: Khary Randolph
Reviewer: Rob Wrecks
Summary: In the aftermath of Cole’s incarceration, Kareem is beginning to doubt Juncture’s leadership. Meanwhile, the Mann Co. fends off an attack from a terrorist organization, and Detective Waters may have finally received the clue she needs to tie together Kareem’s disappearance with her investigation.
