Written by Josh Elder
Art by Adam Archer; Ian Herring; Saida Temofonte; & 5th Cell
Cover Art by Adam Archer
SUMMARY:
Collecting 2013-2014’s “Scribblenauts Unmasked: A Crisis of Imagination,” DC Comics released this 208-page compilation in 2015. From Earth-í, Scribblenauts Maxwell & Lily Unusual find themselves tangled up in DC Comics’ 52-era multiverse fighting an alternate version of Crisis on Infinite Earths. Maxwell has his magical notebook to conjure up anything he can imagine while Lily has a magical handheld globe to teleport them wherever they need to go.
With the Justice League leading the way, the war to save everything in the universe covers Gotham City and Metropolis on Earth, the JLA Watchtower on the Moon, Rann, the Phantom Zone, Limbo, the Anti-Matter Universe, and other places in between. Not only must DC’s mightiest forces set aside its differences, twin siblings Maxwell & Lily must desperately call upon their counterparts: Doppelganger & Doppelily for help. Yet, it may well come down to the Scribblenauts summoning an unexpected savior to help even the odds.
Note: As the cover readily acknowledges, the storyline is adapted from the same-named video game. The installments of this series were first released digitally and in single issues.
REVIEW:
Designed for an elementary school audience, Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure is an inspired romp to explore. Case in point: DC’s 52-verse (i.e. Superman & Wonder Woman as the ‘ultimate’ power couple) is represented by a vast array of star players, both among its most well-known names and some relatively obscure. In addition to a fun alternate take on DC’s greatest Crisis, writer Josh Elder delightfully homages familiar bits of dialogue from Superman II, Michael Keaton’s first Batman film, Return of the Jedi, and even Animal House at unexpected moments.
Best of all, the harmlessly silly storyline pitches some cool empowerment moments to impress upon kids that super-powers aren’t necessary to trust in “hope” and show “courage,” when necessary. Even if this trade paperback is a glorified video game advertisement, it’s a fun crossover read for both Scribblenauts players and DC’s kiddie fanbase.
Of equal importance, DC’s production values on this book are excellent. Considering DC’s forays into far darker territory, wary parents can trust getting their money’s worth here for the under-eight crowd.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a 15-page bonus story pitting Maxwell & Lily, with guest stars Superman & Batman, against Doppelganger & a horde of Bizarros. In glossy, full-page gallery format, the covers are included.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
