Written by Brandon T. Snider.
Illustrated & Cover Art by Tim Levins.
SUMMARY:
Based off the Justice League Unlimited animated program’s continuity, Stone Arch Brooks released this 88-page paperback in 2018. It’s among at least eight titles in this series.
With the League already short-handed due to various emergencies, Batman deploys a six-member squad under Wonder Woman & Vixen’s command to Gorilla City. This contingent consists of John Stewart’s Green Lantern; Hawkman; Green Arrow; & Ronnie Raymond/Professor Martin Stein’s rookie Firestorm. Their mission is to recapture a fugitive Gorilla Grodd.
A routine skirmish seemingly lands Grodd and his mind-controlling gold helmet in League custody. Yet, aboard a mid-air League Javelin jet, the conniving Gorilla Grodd’s latest evil scheme is unleashed. Transforming Firestorm, Green Arrow, Hawkman, and Wonder Woman into his rampaging gorilla minions, Grodd sends them against Vixen & Green Lantern in downtown New York City.
It’s up to Professor Stein to reach Ronnie’s mind to save their League teammates while there’s still time.
Notes: While Batman plays a supporting role in this plot, Superman, Cyborg, & Flash make cameo appearances. Neither Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern nor Aquaman appear in this story. The back cover reiterates the League roster, including its reserves. There are at least seven other titles in this particular Stone Arch Books series.
REVIEW:
Its production values are remarkably good, including an easily readable font. Both its comic book-faithful plot (i.e. Hawkman & Green Arrow’s mutual disdain) and appealing visuals ensure a decent diversion for the intended elementary school audience. As the team’s rookie powerhouse, Firestorm (Ronnie Raymond & Professor Martin Stein) is highlighted in a plot reminiscent of the mid-80’s Super-Friends TV incarnations as The Super Powers Team/Galactic Guardians animated series.
There’s nothing remarkable about the story itself, as kids will likely outgrow it fast. Still, Justice League: Gorilla Grodd and The Primate Protocol makes a fun library read for ages 8 and up.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a table of contents. The League’s ‘roll call’ highlights its primary seven members: Wonder Woman; Batman; Superman; Cyborg; Flash; Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern; and Aquaman. Another twenty League reserves are also depicted. The League’s ‘database’ reviews a quick profile on Gorilla Grodd, along with images of another thirty-five Legion of Doom villains.
An ad identifies the covers for all eight (so far) titles in this series. Following a single-page glossary, a few questions and some creative writing prompts are provided for students. Paragraph-length bios on Snider and Levins are saved for last.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
