DC Comics
Batgirl #5
By Avi Weinryb
November 23, 2016 - 00:22

DC Comics
Writer(s): Hope Larson
Penciller(s): Rafael Albuquerque
Inker(s): Rafael Albuquerque
Colourist(s): Dave McCaig
Letterer(s): Deron Bennett
Cover Artist(s): Rafael Albuquerque; Variant by Francis Manapul



Batgirl-5-1-600x923.jpg
Barbara Gordon’s adventure through Asia concludes in this issue, with a final showdown against the main villain, The Teacher. Once a friend, Teacher is now a deadly fighter, addicted to an enhancement drug. As Batgirl, Barbara will need to dig deep into herself in order to defeat a foe that is able to detect her every move.

Hope Larson brings this story arc to a strong conclusion by offering an internal fight to challenge Batgirl in addition to an external one with a dangerous villain. Halfway through the issue, Batgirl is knocked out, upon which she goes on a mental journey into the unknown, connecting with sources of inspiration and imagined versions of some of her friends and confidants. Using the knowledge they impart, she is able to summon her power to take on her foe.

Rafael Albuquerque’s artwork is instantly recognizable, distinctive in its angular simplicity. Fight scenes, of which there are many, are visceral and gritty. There is an intensity that drives up the stakes of these battles. All in all, Batgirl is a chock full of heartfelt moments as well as heartfelt punches to the jaw. Something for everyone! While the character’s nation-hopping vacation is over, the call of duty does not cease. We can all look forward to more from this dynamic character once she gets back to Gotham. But if you had the choice between traveling through East Asia or slumming it in dirty, crime-laden Gotham, which would you choose? I guess that's why this is fiction.
Rating: 8.5/10

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