Diana and Nubia: Princesses of the Amazons by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, Illustrated by Victoria Ying

Information

Goodreads: Diana and Nubia
Series: Diana: Princess of the Amazons #2
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Expected Publication: 2022

Summary

Nubia loves living on Themyscira, but it does get lonely being the only kid. Then she makes a wish to Hera–and the next day wakes up with a stranger in her room–Diana, who claims she is the princess of Themyscira! Worse, their mothers seem to think that both girls have existed there as sisters all along. The two will have to work together to make things right.  But what if it means losing the first friend they have had?

Review

Diana and Nubia: Princesses of the Amazons is a cute graphic novel about being sisters.  Diana and Nubia start their relationship feeling competitive, and like the other is an interloper in their life.  As time progresses, however, the two see how well they work together–and how much fun they can have.  The focus remains on the relationship between the two, brushing aside bigger questions about the nature of the worlds and the potential consequences of their actions.  I do not think younger readers will read too much into the backstory, however, and instead will find both the story and the artwork absolutely adorable.

In many ways, I think Victoria Ying’s illustrations really make the book.  The story is not particularly original, though it is fun to see Diana and Nubia interact with each other.  What really makes the book stand out is just how cute the pictures are!  Both Nubia and Diana are drawn as the sweetest little characters–and their big, emotive reactions to everything that happens is the icing on the cake.  Truly, I picked up this sequel for the artwork more than anything else.  As much as I have liked Shannon Hale’s books in the past, I have found her newer ones to be a bit standard.  Not bad, but not standouts.

The plot is arguably very kid-friendly, though, as an adult, I found it a little lackluster. Hera promises Diana and Nubia that the two have to complete a challenging quest.  However, they do it very easily, with only a big scene of a mountain climb and a monster at the very end to hint of any danger.  Really, they are merely engaged in a scavenger hunt.  I do not doubt that this will appeal to kids and that it seems age appropriate.  I just think that if Hera promises a challenge, the two should be shown struggling more.

On the whole, however, Diana and Nubia: Princesses of the Amazons is a delightful graphic novel.  And I am sure it will be especially beloved by readers in the targeted age range.

Captain Carter: Woman Out of Time by Jamie McKelvie, Marika Crest

Information

Goodreads: Captain Carter: Woman Out of Time
Series: Collects Issues #1-5 of Captain Carter (2022)
Age Category: Young Adult/Adult
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Summary

In another reality, Peggy Carter took the Super Soldier Serum instead of Steve Rogers. Decades later, she is pulled out of the ice and must confront a new world. But not everything has changed. Soon Peggy will be clashing with H.Y.D.R.A. once more.

Review

Captain Carter will likely appeal to fans of the Marvel What If…? TV series, though I believe this variant is supposed to be different from the show. While the TV series introduces Peggy as the woman who received the Super Soldier Serum instead of Steve Rogers, this limited series begins with Peggy being recovered from the ice. Like Steve, she immediately finds herself asked to jump back into action, though she wishes for time to mourn her dead and acclimate to the modern world. Relevant political commentary that mirrors ongoing concerns in our world make this series feel fresh, however, and not like something merely published to please fans.

Captain Carter’s modern-day UK is written to look like a post 9/11 United States, with certain government officials pushing policies said to be necessary to protect the people, while actively trying to increase their powers for their own hidden agenda. Just recovered from the ice, Peggy is not immediately aware of the current state of politics, and sometimes finds herself being used by the government in ways she does not approve, especially once others educate her on what is happening. Ultimately, Peggy has to come to terms with the fact that the government is not the same one she knew in the 1940s, and the enemy is not as clear cut as H.Y.D.R.A.

For me, even though I love Captain Carter, this series was a little difficult because I kept sensing that I should know who certain characters are–but I didn’t. In theory, these five issues stand alone, but in practice I felt that I would have gotten more fun out of the series if I knew, for example, who Elizabeth Braddock is in other stories. Tony Stark is present, for instance, and that was fun because I already have a concept of who he is and what he should be doing, and thus it was cool to see a variant as a “real” Iron Man, one who seems part cyborg almost. I wanted that kind of connection with other characters, too.

On the whole, however, Captain Carter is a fun series, one that raises thought-provoking questions that will surely resonate with readers. I wouldn’t say no to seeing Peggy go on more adventures!

Miles Morales: Stranger Tides by Justin A. Reynolds & Pablo Leon

Information

Goodreads: Miles Morales: Stranger Tides
Series: Miles Morales Graphic Novels #2
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Summary

Miles Morales is starting to get the hang of being Spider-Man. Then people around the world start freezing–and the phenomenon seems to be connected to the launch of a highly-anticipated video game. Miles is on the case, but he might need some backup if he plans to defeat the Stranger. The Stranger has judged humanity and deemed that the only justice is for the world to consume itself.

Review

Miles Morales is back in the sequel to Shock Waves, and he finally feels like he might be able to swing this whole Spider-Man thing. Furthermore, people are starting to accept him as a real superhero, and he even has an invite to the launch of a hot new video game. But when the Stranger judges humanity and decides that half the populace must die, Miles might just find he needs some backup. Stranger Tides is not the most original story, but it features an engaging protagonist and stellar artwork. It is worth a read for fans of Spider-Man, even if does not feel like a must-read for graphic novel fans in general.

Justin A. Reynolds is known for his banter, and that works particularly well for a character like Spider-Man. Miles’ narration feel genuine for the character, and sometimes even witty–not just sarcastic. I love Miles, so it’s rewarding to see him in good hands. Reynolds balances the humor with heart, showing how Miles’ love for his friends and family drives him. The relationships in the book are one of the most rewarding aspects, even when it sometimes feel like they deserve a bit more development.

Though the storyline sometimes feels confusing and not all characters get enough time to feel fully developed, fans of Spider-Man will still love this one. The fast-paced action, large cast of characters, and general feeling of forward motion will keep the attention of readers, while the fun and colorful artwork is also sure to attract. Stranger Tides may not be my favorite Miles Morales story, but it is entertaining, and I would likely read another installment in the series.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King, et al

Information

Goodreads: Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
Series: Collects Issues #1-8
Age Category: Adult
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Summary

When her father is killed, the alien girl Ruthye asks Supergirl to help her track the man down responsible and avenge her father. Supergirl does not believe in killing, but will the ravages she witnesses change her mind about the nature of justice?

Review

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is, I think, my second Supergirl comic! I realize that this might be a controversial choice. From vague snippets I have heard from other readers and read online, apparently this version of Supergirl pushes the boundaries and is supposed to explore a new, more “grown-up” version of the superhero. I don’t know about all that. What I do know is that Kara’s kindness and compassion still shine through in this story–the supposed edginess seems like a mere ploy to get readers interested in the title. The only thing I heartily disliked is the vague ending, primarily because having a vague ending risks undoing all the work of the previous issues.

Since I cannot really compare Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow to other iterations of the hero, I must assess the book on its own merits. To that end, I can say confidently that I enjoyed Supergirl’s characterization and was intrigued by her journey. Is Supergirl not supposed to drink or something? Too gritty? I can’t say I care. I did care, however, not only about the way she travels the universe hoping to save worlds, often stopping for small bits of kindness that do mean the world. I also love the interior journey readers get to see, with the book exploring Kara’s backstory and the way she carries the burden of watching her planet die (unlike Superman, who left as a baby).

The low point of the book is probably Ruthye’s narration. In some respects, as a narrator Ruthye works rather well. She is a child who watched her father die and now wants revenge. So her translating her experience and understanding of Supergirl is a neat narrative trick; she is the shadow of Kara, the bitter vigilante Kara might have become. However, Ruthye’s actual form of narration–her weird, pseudo-Early Modern English, is excruciating. I think the writers wanted her to sound like Shakespeare, but she just sounds like someone’s bad take on Hamlet. She also repeats herself a lot. I think this is meant to make her sound dramatic, but I just found it tiring.

If readers can get past the writing style, however, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is an engaging book. Readers get to travel with Kara and Ruthye to various planets and see Ruthye’s developing understandign of Kara’s character. I think the authors are trying to tease the idea that Supergirl might break. That she might actually kill a man for revenger. This might grip some readers or worry some readers. Not having read much Supergirl, I was not entirely invested in the question. I figured if I did not like Kara’s depiction, I just would not read this particular take on Supergirl again.

The ending does hit a sour note with its ambiguity. I discussed it with the person who had recommended the book to me, and they had an entirely different interpretation than I did. So then I did an internet search to see what the consensus might be. There are several different takes on it. For some books, ambiguity might work and be desirable. Here, however, I think the story needs a clear-cut ending to keep it thematically whole. So, for me, the ending is a definite miss.

On the whole, however, I enjoyed Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. I can see myself reading more Supergirl comics in the future.

She-Hulk, Vol. 1: Jen, Again by Rainbow Rowell, et al

Information

Goodreads: Jen, Again
Series: She-Hulk (2022) #1
Age Category: Young Adult/Adult
Source: Library
Published: 2022

Summary

Jennifer Walters is trying to rebuild her legal career, when an old friend turns up at her apartment. What happened to Jack of Hearts? And why is he looking for her? Collecting She-Hulk (2022) Issues 1-5.

Review

I’ve never read a She-Hulk comic before, so I was not sure what to expect. And I don’t know why She-Hulk has to rebuild her legal career, or why her new boss is anti-superhero, or who Jack of Hearts is. But comics tend to give readers enough information to orient them, even if some of the finer details remain hazy. And I enjoyed Rainbow Rowell’s Runaways, so I was willing to along for the ride and see where it took me. The result? A sensitively-written story exploring Jennifer’s identity and life as it is.

Rowell tends to excel at depicting characters and relationships, so I was not surprised to find myself immediately drawn to Jennifer. Her upbeat attitude in the face of past challenges inspired me, and I cheered her on as she reached out to old friends for help, helped friends herself despite her boss’s disapproval, and took some time to work on her own confidence and self-image. Her admission that she prefers to stay in the of She-Hulk was a particularly poignant moment, and really captures the heart of this story. Jennifer is Jen, Again, and needs to figure out what that means for her and whether she can accept a version of herself that seems like it is so much less than She-Hulk.

The beauty of Jennifer Walters is, of course, that Jennifer is a superhero all on her own. Throughout the story, she constantly looks for ways to help others. She is a cheerleader for her friends when they are feeling down. She uses her professional knowledge as a lawyer to assist her clients. She even reminds her old nemeses of their self-worth, and helps them work through their bad days. She-Hulk is strong in body, but Jennifer is strong in spirit. I fell in love with Jennifer in this book.

If Jen, Again, has any flaws, it is that it will appeal to fans of character-driven stories, but will likely disappoint those accustomed to comic volumes having an arc with a well-defined plot that is resolved by the end of the fifth issue. Because there is very little plot here. Jack of Hearts falls from the sky, and neither her nor Jen know why. But the focus remains on their blossoming romance, and readers receive only the vaguest of hints about where Jack might have been and who the villains might potentially be. There is no climax here, no final showdown. The whole book reads more like issue one of a typical volume, and not like the whole volume.

Still, I enjoyed getting to know Jennifer in Jen, Again. I found Jennifer’s kindness and empathy inspirational. And I cannot wait to read more of her story.

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.

Squirrel Girl: The Unbeatable Radio Show! (Season 1)

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl has been my favorite superhero, ever since I was introduced to her comics through Michael’s blog My Comic Relief. She is a true superhero for our times with her dedication not just to “eating nuts and kicking butts,” but also to listening to villains and trying to rehabilitate them. Doreen Green only resorts to fighting when other ways of changing villainous behavior do not stop. Because I love Squirrel Girl’s comics so much, I was sad to see Ryan North’s run end. But then…Michael introduced me to Squirrel Girl’s new podcast!

Squirrel Girl: The Unbeatable Radio Show! begins right after the comics. As Doreen tries to navigate some big changes in her superhero life, she starts a radio show at her university, dedicated to giving advice to callers and enacting positive change. Here are my thoughts on season one’s six episodes.

Episode 1: “The Fate of My Universe”

The first episode starts off strong with Ryan North’s trademark humor! Set after the events of Squirrel Girl’s final comic, the podcast is still accessible even to casual Marvel fans, requiring no background knowledge, but providing any information necessary. The actors for each character are absolutely perfect, embodying the personalities just as I imagined them on the page. While this episode is largely set-up, its comedic aspects make it highly entertaining. And, it finally answers one of my most pressing questions–why did Chipmunk Hunk name himself that?!

Episode 2: “Spider-Sense Didn’t Even Tingle”

Episode 2 continues to give Squirrel Girl fans all the best parts of Squirrel Girl. Iron Man and Spider-Man both make guest appearances to support Doreen in her new venture, while Squirrel Girl’s friends Koi Boi, Chipmunk Hunk, Nancy Whitehead, and Brain Drain all appear to support her. Brain Drain’s nihilistic haiku might just become one of my favorite parts of the show.

Episode 3: “The Sinister Six Are No More”

The podcast continues strong! Squirrel Girl is so fun in part because it meshes a lot of things that people might not think would work. Science, math, and art fun facts all appear, as does Nancy’s feminism and Squirrel Girl’s commitment to suggesting alternatives to crime. This episode is especially entertaining as Freestyle Love Supreme make an appearance. How wonderful!

Episode 4: “Who Would Win in a Fight?”

The humor is one of the most delightful parts of Squirrel Girl, and episode four continues to deliver. The humor is often intellectual in nature, such as when Nancy suddenly gives a freestyle monologue on skepticism, or Brain Drain recites his soul-draining poetry. I often end up loving the random parts more than the recurring plot about the art thief Fine Art.

Episode 5: “The Second-Best Animal After Squirrels”

The best part of this episode is certainly the caller who discovers that she can now talk to dogs. Doreen is always excited about everything and happy for everyone, so the realization that she might be talking at cross purposes proves highly amusing. Fine Art also increases the drama as we head into the final episode of the season, but I have to admit I feel very little interest in Fine Art or their schemes, and really just wanted more of Doreen trying to use her show to help people.

Episode 6: “Unbeatable”

Episode six wraps up the season in a satisfying way. Fine Art gets caught, of course, but the team also learns all about the power of friendship and the power of empathy. Doreen always tries to inspire other people to kindness, and she certainly will have inspired more than her fictional listeners with her positive attitude and belief that everyone contains a bit of good. Here’s hoping for another season!

Silk, Vol. 1: Threats and Menaces by Maurene Goo & Takeshi Miyazawa

Information

Goodreads: Silk: Threats and Menaces
Series: Collects Silk (2021) #1-5
Age Category: Adult
Source: Library
Published: 2021

Official Summary

By day Cindy Moon is an intrepid reporter for the upstart new media empire Threats & Menaces, under her old boss J. Jonah Jameson. By night she’s Silk, crime-fighting super hero! But Cindy’s worlds are about to collide when her latest investigation puts Silk and everyone she loves in danger! Someone is killing gangsters in Queens, leaving behind a trail of blood and…fur? Who is this powerful new player in New York’s underworld? Where did she come from…and what is she doing with a strange cat demon? It will take all of Cindy’s prowess as reporter and hero to find the answers — and stay alive! But even as a perilous meeting with tech CEO Saya Ishii brings Cindy one step closer to the truth, a classic Spidey villain sets his sights on Silk!

Review

I have been wanting to pick up a Silk comic ever since I read Michael’s article (over at My Comic Relief) exploring the ways in which Cindy Moon is a hero for our times (specifically pandemic times). Her story, which originates with her hiding in a bunker to protect the world, not only seems particularly resonant as the world experiences lockdowns and isolation periods, but also is just simply…inspiring. The way that she seems to embrace life, to hold out hope, and to keep choosing to do the right thing. This book is not Silk’s origin story, but it still shows her exemplifying all those characteristics that make her a role model.

Indeed, Silk as a character is what made me love her story so much. The plotline does not feel particularly original–an evil corporation head wants to take over the world with a demon cat (or…something)–and, in a way, does not give Cindy much opportunity to shine by using her wits or getting out of a tight spot. It’s really the quieter moments that show her strength: Cindy going to therapy, Cindy working hard at her job to keep people safe, Cindy attempting to get rival gangs to work together so they have a chance to live (before the demon cat gets them). She does it all with grace and humor, never asking for thanks and keeping an upbeat attitude even others do not particularly appreciate her.

Cindy is just the type of person one would wish to have as a friend, and that makes reading her story so much more enjoyable. She uplifts in a time when society seems to be breaking down, and people in public seem to be getting meaner. She reminds us that suffering does not have to lead to selfishness, bitterness, or resentment. Instead, suffering can inspire us to reach out a helping hand. We need more books like this.

Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin by Nadia Shammas, Illustrated by Nabi H. Ali

Information

Goodreads: Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin
Series: None
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2021

Summary

Months after receiving superpowers, Kamala Khan is trying to balance being a superhero with a being a good friend and daughter. But the stress of attending training at Avengers Tower, babysitting her nephew Malik, keeping her readers happy with fanfic updates, completing her homework, and still attending family dinners is starting to take its toll. Then a robot villain threatens to infiltrate Avengers Tower. Kamala will need to rely on her friends if she is going to defeat the threat before it is too late.

Review

The stress of trying to do it all has been a constant theme for Ms. Marvel, so perhaps it is no surprise that this latest spin-off (meant for younger readers) has a familiar plotline. That would not necessarily be a problem; readers new to Ms. Marvel might well find the concept original, or at least relatable. However, the plot proves a little too simplistic (and Ms. Marvel a little too conveniently oblivious) to make Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin a notable addition to Kamala Khan’s legacy.

Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin is a thin story. The main antagonist, so to speak, is Kamala’s busy social life; plenty of scenes see her rushing from Avengers training to babysitting duty to fanfic writing. A secondary–and less impressive–villain is a robot who seeks to use the internet/technology to break into Avengers tower in order to access Tony Stark’s research. The entire plot hinges, however, on one key detail; even though Kamala has witnessed a very recognizable purple and yellow robot already try to break into Stark’s computers, she does not recognize the exact same robot when it shows up at her house. No, she decides to plug it into her computer instead. To buy into this story, readers also have to believe that Ms. Marvel is really, really dense.

Vague references to areas of concern for Gen Z such as internet privacy and capitalism are vaguely scattered through the book, in an apparent homage to the original teen comics, which are very concerned with social justice and other political issues. However, other than a nod to the fact that the villain has access to the internet–and the implication that Kamala should have been more careful about what she posts online–the story does not actually explore these issues. Even Kamala ultimately gets a pass for posting sensitive information about the Avengers on her fanfic forum because, according to her friends, it is really the villain’s fault for taking advantage of it.

Ultimately Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin adds nothing new to the Ms. Marvel story, but arguably actually makes it lesser. The story makes Kamala seem unobservant and foolish, and the villain is defeated too easily to make it seem like a really impressive win. Kamala’s ultimate desire to spend more time with family and friends is, I suppose, meant to be heartwarming and laudable, but, without more room for the story to expand on Kamala’s character development, the ending seems unearned and perhaps a little too easy. All it takes for her to repair her relationship with her parents is inviting them to watch a movie with her?

I was excited to read Ms. Marvel: Stretched Thin because Kamala Khan is one of my favorite superheroes. However, the book really just reignited my desire to return to the original comics.

I Am Not Starfire by Mariko Tamaki, Yoshi Yoshitani

Information

Goodreads: I Am Not Starfire
Series: None
Source: Library
Published: July 2021

Summary

Mandy is tired of the expectations that come with being the daughter of Starfire. Everything thinks that she has superpowers, which she doesn’t, and, worse, everyone thinks that they can use her to get to her mother. Mandy just wants to get through high school–preferably without her mom learning that she walked out of her SATs and has no desire to go to college. Then an old enemy appears to target Starfire. Is Mandy strong enough to save her mom?

Review

I have never read a Starfire comic and I know nothing of the Teen Titans, so I went into I Am Not Starfire with few expectations. I assumed I would be reading a coming-of-age story focused on Mandy, Starfire’s daughter, and what it means to be related to somebody famous, when you feel like you are just average. Because I did not expect a Starfire comic and because I have no clue what Starfire is like in any of her other appearances, I enjoyed I Am Not Starfire for what it is: a look at one teen’s search for identity while trying to come out from the shadow of her mother’s reputation.

Even if one accepts that I Am Not Starfire is not a Titans story, but rather Mandy’s story, I think that the comic may be admittedly difficult for some to enjoy. Mandy is almost a stereotypically angsty teen, angry at everyone and mean for no reason. Readers who prefer their protagonists to be likable may struggle with Mandy’s attitude and the way in which she shuts everyone out. Her struggle to accept herself is real, of course, and will gain her some sympathy. But not every teen searching for themselves is rude and hurtful. Mandy’s projection of her self-loathing onto others is difficult to watch.

The plot probably will not capture readers, however, if they fail to connect with Mandy. It is a rather standard affair, with Mandy trying to get through high school, deal with crushes, and figure out what her future will look like. The fact that her mom is famous is pretty much the biggest spin given to an age-old storyline. Refreshingly, the superheroes do not come into play much until the very end, when an old nemesis of Starfire’s appears for a showdown. This moment proves a weak point in the story, however, since a gladiator-style fight in front of Mandy’s high school seems both out of place and ridiculous. The day is then saved by a deus ex machina, which essentially destroys the idea that Mandy can be average and still valuable and accepting of herself.

The illustrations may be the biggest strength of the book. I enjoyed Yoshi Yoshitani’s work in Zatanna and the House of Secrets, and was pleased to see the artist’s work once again here. Yoshitani tends to draw kind of cute illustrations with pleasing color palettes, which make the book a joy to read.

DC has released many great graphic novels for tween and teen readers lately. I Am Not Starfire is a solid offering, but not one of the best. The idea is good; the execution is only so-so.