Silk, Vol. 2: Age of the Witch by Emily Kim, Takeshi Miyazawa

Information

Goodreads: Age of the Witch
Series: Silk #2
Age Category: Adult
Source: Library
Publication Date: 2022

Summary

Cindy Moon is trying to find her place in the world and discover what inspires her. But an ancient witch has awoken and is stealing the energy of young people. And, of course, Silk is the witch’s next target! Cindy will have to uncover the secrets of Korean magic and navigate the strange world of social media in order to defeat her latest enemy.

Review

Cindy Moon continues to inspire in the latest installment of her adventures. Newly returned to the world after spending years in a bunker, she is trying to find her place in life by doing good–acting as the superhero Silk, but also chasing leads as a newspaper reporter. Still, something seems missing and Cindy wants to find out what motivates her, what makes her unique. Even though she has superpowers, Cindy feels both relatable and aspirational–a character who doubts herself at times, but who has a desire to grow and become the best that she can. Each Silk story I read gives me just a little more hope that good people are out there, and they are working to change the world.

Cindy’s stories are delightful not only because of her kindness, however, but also because of the subtle humor that then turns into social commentary. Even though she is young, Cindy has missed out on a lot during her time hidden away. So it is funny to watch older generations assume she must be wonderful with technology and a pro at social media. Aspects of life that readers take for granted take on new significance through Cindy’s eyes, and it becomes clear that things do not have to be the way they are. Cindy’s removal from the world allows her to question it.

Cindy, for instance, really does not understand influencers, and that is just the starting point for a reflection on the role of social media in society, the power given to individuals we do not even know, and the dangers of pursuing internet fame at all costs. I appreciated the depiction of an influencer who puts himself in the way of physical harm, for instance, to get more likes. And I even wish the story had gone further, and perhaps explored the rising trend of fake news to generate controversy, and thus more exposure. A trend that arguably tech companies participate in and encourage since more views means money. But admittedly there is not room for a complete survey of social media and its problems. It is refreshing to see a story touch on even aspects of it, instead of assuming that the internet/progress must be celebrated unequivocally.

Indeed, the social media aspect of the book is perhaps more dominant that the titular witch, though the witch is the catalyst for the story. The witch allows Cindy to explore her cultural heritage a bit more, and later inspires her to continue doing so. Altogether, however, I must admit that I think the witch is a bit under-developed, even with her compelling backstory. The point the witch makes about social media influencers being like religious leaders is more interesting than anything the witch herself actually does.

Cindy Moon is such a delightful character that it is a shame she does not seem to appear in more comics. I will, however, continue to read her volumes as they come out because I love how earnest she is, how desirous she is to do good, how convinced she is that the world itself is good. Superhero stories should be uplifting. They should inspire. And Cindy’s always do.