Prepare to witness journalism in capes—figuratively, of course! “Lois Lane: Enemy of the People” by the incomparable Greg Rucka and the deft Mike Perkins is more than just a graphic novel; it’s a crusade against injustice with the mightiest weapon of all: the truth.
Greg Rucka, who’s been crafting compelling narratives from “Gotham Central” to “Checkmate,” excels in his portrayal of Lois Lane—DC’s most underrated superhero. Here, Lois isn’t just reporting the news; she’s making it, armed with her relentless drive, sharp wit, and an arsenal consisting of a tape recorder and pen. Forget supernatural powers; her strength lies in her unwavering commitment to justice.
In one of the book’s pivotal arcs, the drama unfolds around a scandalous photo of Lois kissing Superman, stirring up a media frenzy as she’s technically married to Clark Kent. Yet, the plot thickens beyond tabloid gossip, as Lois dives into a perilous investigation involving the monetization of immigration detention by the current administration. Here, Rucka intertwines real-world political intrigue with comic book flair, highlighting issues that resonate deeply in today’s socio-political climate.
Teaming up with Renee Montoya, who operates as The Question, adds another layer of dynamic storytelling. Rucka, who has profoundly shaped Renee’s character in past works, continues to explore her complexities alongside Lois. Their partnership not only enriches the narrative but also embodies a powerful portrayal of women leading the charge in a male-dominated world.
While the first half of the book is particularly strong, setting up a compelling conflict and diving deep into character development, the latter half may lose some steam, veering towards the convoluted. Yet, even when the plot wavers, the characters’ depth and the thematic undertones keep the pages turning.
“Lois Lane: Enemy of the People” is not just a book for comic fans but for anyone who cherishes fearless journalism and the relentless pursuit of truth. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the mightiest heroes are the ones who wield words, not weapons.
