What do you think?
Rate this book
Nubia: Real One
Can you be a hero...if society doesn’t see you as a person?
Nubia has always been a little bit...different. As a baby she showcased Amazonian-like strength by pushing over a tree to rescue her neighbor’s cat. But, despite having similar abilities, the world has no problem telling her that she’s no Wonder Woman. And even if she was, they wouldn’t want her. Every time she comes to the rescue, she’s reminded of how people see her; as a threat. Her Moms do their best to keep her safe, but Nubia can’t deny the fire within her, even if she’s a little awkward about it sometimes. Even if it means people assume the worst.
When Nubia’s best friend, Quisha, is threatened by a boy who thinks he owns the town, Nubia will risk it all—her safety, her home, and her crush on that cute kid in English class—to become the hero society tells her she isn’t.
From the witty and powerful voice behind A Blade So Black, L.L. McKinney, and with endearing and expressive art by Robyn Smith, comes a vital story for today about equality, identity and kicking it with your squad.
Nubia has always been a little bit...different. As a baby she showcased Amazonian-like strength by pushing over a tree to rescue her neighbor’s cat. But, despite having similar abilities, the world has no problem telling her that she’s no Wonder Woman. And even if she was, they wouldn’t want her. Every time she comes to the rescue, she’s reminded of how people see her; as a threat. Her Moms do their best to keep her safe, but Nubia can’t deny the fire within her, even if she’s a little awkward about it sometimes. Even if it means people assume the worst.
When Nubia’s best friend, Quisha, is threatened by a boy who thinks he owns the town, Nubia will risk it all—her safety, her home, and her crush on that cute kid in English class—to become the hero society tells her she isn’t.
From the witty and powerful voice behind A Blade So Black, L.L. McKinney, and with endearing and expressive art by Robyn Smith, comes a vital story for today about equality, identity and kicking it with your squad.
207 pages
First published February 23, 2021
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 601 reviews
October 9, 2021
Okay. Everyone gather round. This is the only time I am ever going to say anything like this, so listen up:
This is the one single valid superhero.
Every other example of superhero content is one or more of the following:
- clichéd
- boring
- predictable
- trite
- disappointing
- would be better if there were no superheroes in it
Every other entry into the superhero canon in general should follow these rules:
- go supernatural or paranormal instead
- seriously
- replace every character with a witch/ghost/magical entity and replace every patriotic spirit of heroism with spooky personalities and call it a day
This is the exception to both of those statements, which are otherwise true 100% of the time.
This is so, so good.
Bottom line: I have an open mind after all and this is the proof! Also, read this.
This is the one single valid superhero.
Every other example of superhero content is one or more of the following:
- clichéd
- boring
- predictable
- trite
- disappointing
- would be better if there were no superheroes in it
Every other entry into the superhero canon in general should follow these rules:
- go supernatural or paranormal instead
- seriously
- replace every character with a witch/ghost/magical entity and replace every patriotic spirit of heroism with spooky personalities and call it a day
This is the exception to both of those statements, which are otherwise true 100% of the time.
This is so, so good.
Bottom line: I have an open mind after all and this is the proof! Also, read this.
January 22, 2021
I really hope L.L. McKinney gets given a chance to make this into a long running series because Nubia as a character, a hero and a story have the power to change so many readers lives for the better.
This was a truly phenomenal read and one of the best graphic novels I've read in a while. It's poignant, powerful, relevant, brilliantly self aware and tackles racism (specifically that towards the Black community) with nuance, sensitivity and unwavering, brutal honesty.
Nubia is such a powerful character to follow. I thought McKinney did such a wonderful job at balancing the multiple sides of Nubia's character. She's bold, scared, unsure, powerful, brave, awkward and passionate. She's a hero who doesn't know how to be one yet, an awkward teen with a crush, best-friends and Mom's she adores but still lies to and she's a young Black girl trying to navigate the reality of how that fact effects her safety and actions everyday in a society working against her.
Plot wise, this was action packed, emotion filled and utterly addictive from the first page until the last. Despite exploring everything from racial profiling to protesting to gun violence to super-heroism, there was never a point in which it felt 'too much'. It was perfectly balanced, painfully relevant and I adored every moment.
With countless bold and powerful panels, Robyn Smith's art style couldn't have been a better pairing for L.L. McKinney's story. It fit Nubia as a character beautifully and the way the colour scheme flowed and changed throughout the story was wonderful.
This was honestly sensational. I have so much love for Nubia and the journey she went through throughout this book and I hope I get to see a lot more of her in the future. I've officially found a new favourite teen hero.
This was a truly phenomenal read and one of the best graphic novels I've read in a while. It's poignant, powerful, relevant, brilliantly self aware and tackles racism (specifically that towards the Black community) with nuance, sensitivity and unwavering, brutal honesty.
Nubia is such a powerful character to follow. I thought McKinney did such a wonderful job at balancing the multiple sides of Nubia's character. She's bold, scared, unsure, powerful, brave, awkward and passionate. She's a hero who doesn't know how to be one yet, an awkward teen with a crush, best-friends and Mom's she adores but still lies to and she's a young Black girl trying to navigate the reality of how that fact effects her safety and actions everyday in a society working against her.
Plot wise, this was action packed, emotion filled and utterly addictive from the first page until the last. Despite exploring everything from racial profiling to protesting to gun violence to super-heroism, there was never a point in which it felt 'too much'. It was perfectly balanced, painfully relevant and I adored every moment.
With countless bold and powerful panels, Robyn Smith's art style couldn't have been a better pairing for L.L. McKinney's story. It fit Nubia as a character beautifully and the way the colour scheme flowed and changed throughout the story was wonderful.
This was honestly sensational. I have so much love for Nubia and the journey she went through throughout this book and I hope I get to see a lot more of her in the future. I've officially found a new favourite teen hero.
February 25, 2021
I know I should laugh at this written garbage but this is sorta sad....Horrible art. Terrible story. Bad characterization and everything in between. Basic whole premise: "I am a black woman. I am a victim. I have an inferiority complex. All white people are racists and bad. And there is some superhero stuff btw but not much" Can you imagine being one of these people? I am black and I cannot tell you how disgusted I feel seeing them use my race as a crutch for their sick bigoted victimhood validation. Just write a good superhero story for goodness sake! Stop pandering and insulting black people!
July 3, 2021
"And just know, no matter what you decide, it will be the right choice." p. 136
Rare five-star graphic novel rating from me. This is engrossing. You will be entranced, and on the edge of your seat. The characters in this GN really draw you in. I was invested in finding out what happened.
Nubia is a Black girl who has superpowers. Her lesbian parents worry constantly about her being discovered, killed, blackmailed or etc. etc. She is rather cloistered. But she can't just keep witnessing injustice and doing nothing about it. Besides, she's a teenager, and her impulse-control is not the best. LOL She's trying to get through junior year, but bad things keep happening and trouble keeps finding her.
Message-y, but not over-the-top. Just the right amount of message-y for a comic book IMO. You want to see heroes stand up for what is right and fight the power! You want to see justice served (it's not often you get to see justice served in real life, e.g. Cosby and etc. to many examples to count). You want someone to be able to 'get away with' making people face consequences for their actions. Usually in fictional media this involves a hero or heroine who can enact great violence. No different here. Nubia is able to stand up to rapists, rich people, racists, and etc. because she is able to physically overpower them.
But this book isn't cheesy, it's actually pretty hard-hitting with the fear and consequences Nubia is facing for using her powers and living out loud. That's what makes it so gripping, it's base in reality. Nubia's Black, she's female, and she's superpowered - three things to make society hate and fear her. I think McKinney does a great job capturing this.
Wonderful dialogue - the writing is tops. Ugly artwork. Even Wonder Woman is ugly in this GN. So, I'm not praising the artwork here. It's ugly IMO. But the book is great and worth reading and you can get used to the art style when you are swept up into the story. At least it's all not one color, like the monochrome style that is so popular nowadays.
TL;DR - It's not often a graphic novel gets five stars from me. They often leave me feeling cold. However, this was gripping. Well done. The writing is also superb. I can overlook the ugly artwork for the great story. Highly recommended to anyone with an interest.
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
Nubia L'Shae f
Amera f
Jason m
Quisha f LaQuisha
Quentin m
Oscar m
Danielle f
Tammy f
Wayland m
Maria f
Mark m
Diana f
Hippolyta f
Aries m
Rare five-star graphic novel rating from me. This is engrossing. You will be entranced, and on the edge of your seat. The characters in this GN really draw you in. I was invested in finding out what happened.
Nubia is a Black girl who has superpowers. Her lesbian parents worry constantly about her being discovered, killed, blackmailed or etc. etc. She is rather cloistered. But she can't just keep witnessing injustice and doing nothing about it. Besides, she's a teenager, and her impulse-control is not the best. LOL She's trying to get through junior year, but bad things keep happening and trouble keeps finding her.
Message-y, but not over-the-top. Just the right amount of message-y for a comic book IMO. You want to see heroes stand up for what is right and fight the power! You want to see justice served (it's not often you get to see justice served in real life, e.g. Cosby and etc. to many examples to count). You want someone to be able to 'get away with' making people face consequences for their actions. Usually in fictional media this involves a hero or heroine who can enact great violence. No different here. Nubia is able to stand up to rapists, rich people, racists, and etc. because she is able to physically overpower them.
But this book isn't cheesy, it's actually pretty hard-hitting with the fear and consequences Nubia is facing for using her powers and living out loud. That's what makes it so gripping, it's base in reality. Nubia's Black, she's female, and she's superpowered - three things to make society hate and fear her. I think McKinney does a great job capturing this.
Wonderful dialogue - the writing is tops. Ugly artwork. Even Wonder Woman is ugly in this GN. So, I'm not praising the artwork here. It's ugly IMO. But the book is great and worth reading and you can get used to the art style when you are swept up into the story. At least it's all not one color, like the monochrome style that is so popular nowadays.
TL;DR - It's not often a graphic novel gets five stars from me. They often leave me feeling cold. However, this was gripping. Well done. The writing is also superb. I can overlook the ugly artwork for the great story. Highly recommended to anyone with an interest.
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
Nubia L'Shae f
Amera f
Jason m
Quisha f LaQuisha
Quentin m
Oscar m
Danielle f
Tammy f
Wayland m
Maria f
Mark m
Diana f
Hippolyta f
Aries m
April 5, 2021
Nubia has to deal with all the things a black teenager growing up in America does while also hiding that she has super strength. All she wants to do is help people but it's often misconstrued. The story dealt very well with issues of race while mildly touching on superheroes. I do think every bad thing happening around Nubia being traced back to this one bad kid was more than a little simplistic. The art and coloring were very bland. Thankfully, the writing was more impressive than the art.
November 20, 2023
3/5 ⭐️
- The artwork in this book is so beautiful!! The colors and characters had so much detail throughout that I was excited to see each new page for the creativity alone!
- I wish that the writing hadn’t felt so realistic at times. As a black woman, some parts of the story were triggering when I expected to go into the story for a fun and fluffy superhero story. I wish that there had been a little disclaimer at the beginning so I could have been prepared for the interactions with the police and the racism thoroughly the story.
- I love love loved reading about a black superhero! You don’t see that storyline often and it gave me nostalgic vibes to back when I was younger & would marvel at storm from x-men in the movie because she was black like me. Representation is so important and I loved that in this story.
- The artwork in this book is so beautiful!! The colors and characters had so much detail throughout that I was excited to see each new page for the creativity alone!
- I wish that the writing hadn’t felt so realistic at times. As a black woman, some parts of the story were triggering when I expected to go into the story for a fun and fluffy superhero story. I wish that there had been a little disclaimer at the beginning so I could have been prepared for the interactions with the police and the racism thoroughly the story.
- I love love loved reading about a black superhero! You don’t see that storyline often and it gave me nostalgic vibes to back when I was younger & would marvel at storm from x-men in the movie because she was black like me. Representation is so important and I loved that in this story.
October 7, 2021
*More like 3.5 stars than 3.*
An interesting insight into the plight of a young black female living in America in today’s day and age, but nothing particularly special or new could be found in this. Throughout reading this graphic novel I had to ask myself: why does this seem so familiar? It was because this had practically the same storyline as I Am Not Starfire, except here the protagonist, Nubia, was black and faced issues of racism rather than the fake friends and fans Mandy was plagued with in I Am Not Starfire.
Once again, problems with pacing hindered this graphic novel from fully exploring the racism topics and left it feeling rushed towards the end. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it one million times before: DC YA graphic novels just can’t get the pacing right and I’m pretty tired of it now. The last 2 parts of the story sped along at such a high speed that it made the message fall flat on such important and relevant topics such as racism and school shooters.
The art was quirky to say the least, but I personally didn’t like the style. The limbs were out of proportion and the whole look was messy. The colouring style was relatively effective, but sometimes added to the messy and rushed look, and that wasn’t a good look to have when coupled with the rushed pacing.
It’s a shame because this started out so strong, but it lost its effectiveness after the halfway point.
An interesting insight into the plight of a young black female living in America in today’s day and age, but nothing particularly special or new could be found in this. Throughout reading this graphic novel I had to ask myself: why does this seem so familiar? It was because this had practically the same storyline as I Am Not Starfire, except here the protagonist, Nubia, was black and faced issues of racism rather than the fake friends and fans Mandy was plagued with in I Am Not Starfire.
Once again, problems with pacing hindered this graphic novel from fully exploring the racism topics and left it feeling rushed towards the end. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it one million times before: DC YA graphic novels just can’t get the pacing right and I’m pretty tired of it now. The last 2 parts of the story sped along at such a high speed that it made the message fall flat on such important and relevant topics such as racism and school shooters.
The art was quirky to say the least, but I personally didn’t like the style. The limbs were out of proportion and the whole look was messy. The colouring style was relatively effective, but sometimes added to the messy and rushed look, and that wasn’t a good look to have when coupled with the rushed pacing.
It’s a shame because this started out so strong, but it lost its effectiveness after the halfway point.
March 17, 2021
A really enjoyable story for teens follows a relatable girl struggling with some everyday problems and extraordinary powers. I admire this new take on Nubia a lot and found her family and friends to be very likable. The story was engaging and filled with topical and complex issues, though the ending did feel a little pat,
I'm hoping there is a follow-up to this in my future.
I'm hoping there is a follow-up to this in my future.
February 25, 2021
As you can see from my avatar, I'm a huge fan of Storm. I remember how much of a revelation it was for my little Black girl nerd self to see a superheroine who looked like me (minus the snow white hair lol). Also being a fan of Wonder Woman, discovering that Diana had a twin sister who was Black just cemented my lifelong love of comics. #Representationmatters beyond the box of "accepted" ideas of Blackness.
With that said, what would life be like for a young Black girl with superpowers in this day and age of police brutality, sexual harassment and racism. How would a gifted and caring Black girl navigate life while everything she does is viewed and misconstrued through the lens of race?
Nubia just wants to be a normal teenage girl but knows she isn't. She has powers she doesn't understand and in using them for the most benign reasons causes people to view her with even more suspicion. She and her mothers have to relocate in order to avoid unnecessary attention. However, the moves and the rules her parents have set for her brush up against Nubia's desire to help, especially when it comes to her friends. She has moments where she gets to be a typical teenager with friends and a cute boy crush.
I'm hoping this will be an ongoing series. I'm eager to watch Nubia slowly come into her own as a young superhero in the DC universe.
With that said, what would life be like for a young Black girl with superpowers in this day and age of police brutality, sexual harassment and racism. How would a gifted and caring Black girl navigate life while everything she does is viewed and misconstrued through the lens of race?
Nubia just wants to be a normal teenage girl but knows she isn't. She has powers she doesn't understand and in using them for the most benign reasons causes people to view her with even more suspicion. She and her mothers have to relocate in order to avoid unnecessary attention. However, the moves and the rules her parents have set for her brush up against Nubia's desire to help, especially when it comes to her friends. She has moments where she gets to be a typical teenager with friends and a cute boy crush.
I'm hoping this will be an ongoing series. I'm eager to watch Nubia slowly come into her own as a young superhero in the DC universe.
June 23, 2021
Book 155 of 2021
✨ Nubia: Real One by L. L. McKinney and Robyn Smith (illustrator) ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed this one sooo much. It's a graphic novel that tells the story of Nubia, a young black girl in modern day USA. This story covers friendship, family, some romance, sexual assault and harassment, race and racial relations, protests, and police brutality.
Nubia is amazing and I loved her story. I also love how Diana (Wonder Woman) was written into this story.
I loved the full color art style as it made the graphic novel so immersive.
The author used Nubia's story to examine so many aspects of being a black girl in America, dealing with issues like police brutality, going to protests, and also dealing with bullies at school and white boys who think they can have anything they want.
I enjoyed the friendship dynamic in this one, but the romance was not my favorite (it was cute tho).
I definitely recommend this one, as I read it in the thick of a reading slump and it held my interest throughout.
✨ Nubia: Real One by L. L. McKinney and Robyn Smith (illustrator) ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed this one sooo much. It's a graphic novel that tells the story of Nubia, a young black girl in modern day USA. This story covers friendship, family, some romance, sexual assault and harassment, race and racial relations, protests, and police brutality.
Nubia is amazing and I loved her story. I also love how Diana (Wonder Woman) was written into this story.
I loved the full color art style as it made the graphic novel so immersive.
The author used Nubia's story to examine so many aspects of being a black girl in America, dealing with issues like police brutality, going to protests, and also dealing with bullies at school and white boys who think they can have anything they want.
I enjoyed the friendship dynamic in this one, but the romance was not my favorite (it was cute tho).
I definitely recommend this one, as I read it in the thick of a reading slump and it held my interest throughout.
March 20, 2021
SUPER FAST REVIEW:
Wasn’t sure if I’d like this one or not. It’s okay.
So the story is decent, it’s superhero fare but with some more drama and political themes. This also goes at a fairly good pace and the characters are interesting.
Unfortunately the dialogue is “yeah, bet them hip gen z youngins talk this way” and it’s kinda terrible. I also dislike the art and it’s mostly predictable.
As far as political themes and social commentary go, it’s mixed. Going through a wide variety of topics this well is impressive. Unfortunately the execution is iffy. Some parts are well written but other parts aren’t.
Basically this comic wasn’t bad IMO but it wasn’t anything I’d consider myself a fan of either. It’s fun at times and a decent story with interesting characters but the art and dialogue definitely made this less enjoyable to me.
3/5
Wasn’t sure if I’d like this one or not. It’s okay.
So the story is decent, it’s superhero fare but with some more drama and political themes. This also goes at a fairly good pace and the characters are interesting.
Unfortunately the dialogue is “yeah, bet them hip gen z youngins talk this way” and it’s kinda terrible. I also dislike the art and it’s mostly predictable.
As far as political themes and social commentary go, it’s mixed. Going through a wide variety of topics this well is impressive. Unfortunately the execution is iffy. Some parts are well written but other parts aren’t.
Basically this comic wasn’t bad IMO but it wasn’t anything I’d consider myself a fan of either. It’s fun at times and a decent story with interesting characters but the art and dialogue definitely made this less enjoyable to me.
3/5
March 4, 2021
Horrible story. This feels like nothing more than the author's power fantasy and the story doesn't hold its own weight
She says that even when Blacks are scared they get killed, yet later in the story she can throw a cop into another and get away with it scot-free. The people are written poorly with examples such as a blonde cashier seeing Nubia save her shop from robbers only to then accuse her of being part of the thieves despite numerous scenes showing she wasn't, have cops assume her bracers are a weapon and even have the "racist white boy" become a school shooter with no hinting towards it throughout the story
Nubia: Real One? More like Nubia: My Struggle
Here is a better review by Just Some Guy that covers this garbage fire further https://youtu.be/EkpxVHkJMCY
She says that even when Blacks are scared they get killed, yet later in the story she can throw a cop into another and get away with it scot-free. The people are written poorly with examples such as a blonde cashier seeing Nubia save her shop from robbers only to then accuse her of being part of the thieves despite numerous scenes showing she wasn't, have cops assume her bracers are a weapon and even have the "racist white boy" become a school shooter with no hinting towards it throughout the story
Nubia: Real One? More like Nubia: My Struggle
Here is a better review by Just Some Guy that covers this garbage fire further https://youtu.be/EkpxVHkJMCY
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
May 28, 2020May 28, 2020: We have a coming-of-age story with authentic representation based on the first ever black woman superhero in DC Comics, Nubia! It's clear how passionate L.L. McKinney is for bringing this young black woman on the front and center, and I can't wait to feel all the love that has gone into making this. Also, the cover has just been revealed and IT'S PERFECT OMG.
April 6, 2021
I enjoyed this story, the graphic is awesome, even if I wasn't entirely conviced or seduced by the way sexism and racism were depicted. It sometimes felt forced and not subtle enough.
I did love the diverse cast and the message about acceptance.
I did love the diverse cast and the message about acceptance.
February 18, 2021
This was my first time reading a DC comic - I've always been more of a Marvel fan, but I've been wanting to branch out a little. I don't know a lot about DC's world building and characters, but this was a really accessible comic.
The comic was initially focused on Nubia's day-to-day life, and it especially delves into how difficult it is for Nubia as a Black superhero: where her white counterparts are praised for saving the day, she ends up in handcuffs. It's a story very clearly set in 2020, dealing with gun violence, police brutality and BLM protests, showing the reality of what it's like to be Black in America. And showing very clearly how dystopian the current reality is.
Unfortunately I wasn't the biggest fan of the art work. It's just not a style that appeals to me very much.
CWs: police brutality, school shooting, armed robbery, gun violence, racism, blood
The comic was initially focused on Nubia's day-to-day life, and it especially delves into how difficult it is for Nubia as a Black superhero: where her white counterparts are praised for saving the day, she ends up in handcuffs. It's a story very clearly set in 2020, dealing with gun violence, police brutality and BLM protests, showing the reality of what it's like to be Black in America. And showing very clearly how dystopian the current reality is.
Unfortunately I wasn't the biggest fan of the art work. It's just not a style that appeals to me very much.
CWs: police brutality, school shooting, armed robbery, gun violence, racism, blood
April 28, 2021
I absolutely love L.L. McKinney's Nightmare series so when this came up through my library on a search, I decided I just HAD to read it.
I had no idea that Nubia existed as a DC character before now (I'm not much of a DC person in general, I know only the big named main heroes) but I loved this modern introduction of her! The artstyle was unique and atmospheric, the color palette was perfect, and the story was powerful. It's distressing to know that these things are happening all around us all the time, and stories like this show that you can stand up and make a difference by not keeping quiet.
I had no idea that Nubia existed as a DC character before now (I'm not much of a DC person in general, I know only the big named main heroes) but I loved this modern introduction of her! The artstyle was unique and atmospheric, the color palette was perfect, and the story was powerful. It's distressing to know that these things are happening all around us all the time, and stories like this show that you can stand up and make a difference by not keeping quiet.
February 3, 2021
Seriously, pre-order Nubia. It belongs in every public and school library. So much story packed into these pages, and the art is the perfect complement. And the more I think about how amazing this story is, the more I want to read more Nubia. But Nubia written by L.L. McKinney. Her writing is perfection.
August 11, 2022
This was based off a legit DC superhero and had none of the awkward, superficial social commentary often found in big publisher comics. I was made to feel uncomfortable and angry as I watched Nubia try to exist in a world where she does not yet have superhero fame and I loved it.
The portrayal of the life of a teenage was quite realistic, having Nubia trying to juggle finding herself as well as dealing with society's perception of her. In general it is a tender time for most of us and I feel like that was captured well in a way I could relate to.
The art was not my typical taste, but I think Smith did a great job of setting the emotions for each of the panels. Shoutout to the montage/full page use that was probably some of the most clever and affective.
Something I would recommend to anyone looking for a different superhero origin story. I can also see this being something that would be very important for any young adults in your life, especially any that are BIPOC. One thing I will note is that there is some really heavy material covered including sexual assualt and coercion, racial and homophobic slurs, racism, school shootings, and police brutality/abuse. Keep these in mind before you pick up a copy and take care yourself.
The portrayal of the life of a teenage was quite realistic, having Nubia trying to juggle finding herself as well as dealing with society's perception of her. In general it is a tender time for most of us and I feel like that was captured well in a way I could relate to.
The art was not my typical taste, but I think Smith did a great job of setting the emotions for each of the panels. Shoutout to the montage/full page use that was probably some of the most clever and affective.
Something I would recommend to anyone looking for a different superhero origin story. I can also see this being something that would be very important for any young adults in your life, especially any that are BIPOC. One thing I will note is that there is some really heavy material covered including sexual assualt and coercion, racial and homophobic slurs, racism, school shootings, and police brutality/abuse. Keep these in mind before you pick up a copy and take care yourself.
July 16, 2021
Graphic novel, with excellent art, about a teenage girl who knows she has superpowers, but can't reveal them. Even when she could seriously help someone in trouble, or when she's trouble herself. There's a lot of angst here, self-questioning and self-discovery, set in the contemporary era where/when girls like her are beset by issues and problems that even leave adults flummoxed. (Racism, profiling, bullying, dating and friendship issues, conflicts with authority, and so on ad infinitum.) Older folks like me are often heard to say: 'Glad I didn't grow up in this era.'
Ummm, been reading that in books written as far back as the 1920's and I don't doubt it goes back even further. Regardless, it ain't easy being young, female and black, being raised by two moms, and trying just to get along with the ordinary stuff like, doing homework, being home on time, following the rules and standards set by your parents/family/teachers, etc., and now throw in the ability to toss an ATM across a room and you got yourself a whole 'nother problem.
But like I said, well done. Some humor here, and a whole of seriousness. Highly recommended.
Four stars.
Ummm, been reading that in books written as far back as the 1920's and I don't doubt it goes back even further. Regardless, it ain't easy being young, female and black, being raised by two moms, and trying just to get along with the ordinary stuff like, doing homework, being home on time, following the rules and standards set by your parents/family/teachers, etc., and now throw in the ability to toss an ATM across a room and you got yourself a whole 'nother problem.
But like I said, well done. Some humor here, and a whole of seriousness. Highly recommended.
Four stars.
February 22, 2021
I received a free copy from DC in exchange for my honest review.
WOW. Okay, so I didn't think DC's new graphic novel line couldn't get any better than Oracle Code but here we are. From the artwork to the plot and the hard issues presented, this is a masterpiece. Oh, and the author, illustrator, and colorist are all Black so, if that isn't reason enough to buy this right now, I don't know what is. *insert shrugging lady*
Nubia has powers that she'd rather keep under wraps. Until one day, she gets in the middle of a robbery and thwarts the perps by throwing an ATM at him. The only person who saw her do this is Oscar, her crush. Back at home, she faces her moms who do everything in their power to keep Nubia's secret safe. But with a shady classmate causing trouble, and an impending protest, keeping her powers a secret may be the last Nubia needs.
This is a hard-hitting story that touches upon racism, classism, sexual and domestic violence, and police brutality; everything that exists in the world today. If you can't swallow it, don't touch this book; it's not for you. But if you are triggered, here is your warning.
It's the artwork that drew me in first, and the words were icing on the cake. Nubia's vulnerability will tug at your heart. She wants to do good in the world but thinks the world will see her not for who she is, but for the color of her skin. But despite that, she is strong, loyal, and a fierce protector of her friends and family.
I can see this as the next DC box office SMASH, once COVID decides to take a hike. This is the superhero movie, book, show, etc that we all need.
Please, make this into a series.
Signed, Celia
WOW. Okay, so I didn't think DC's new graphic novel line couldn't get any better than Oracle Code but here we are. From the artwork to the plot and the hard issues presented, this is a masterpiece. Oh, and the author, illustrator, and colorist are all Black so, if that isn't reason enough to buy this right now, I don't know what is. *insert shrugging lady*
Nubia has powers that she'd rather keep under wraps. Until one day, she gets in the middle of a robbery and thwarts the perps by throwing an ATM at him. The only person who saw her do this is Oscar, her crush. Back at home, she faces her moms who do everything in their power to keep Nubia's secret safe. But with a shady classmate causing trouble, and an impending protest, keeping her powers a secret may be the last Nubia needs.
This is a hard-hitting story that touches upon racism, classism, sexual and domestic violence, and police brutality; everything that exists in the world today. If you can't swallow it, don't touch this book; it's not for you. But if you are triggered, here is your warning.
It's the artwork that drew me in first, and the words were icing on the cake. Nubia's vulnerability will tug at your heart. She wants to do good in the world but thinks the world will see her not for who she is, but for the color of her skin. But despite that, she is strong, loyal, and a fierce protector of her friends and family.
I can see this as the next DC box office SMASH, once COVID decides to take a hike. This is the superhero movie, book, show, etc that we all need.
Please, make this into a series.
Signed, Celia
August 26, 2021
Full of stereotypes and poorly written.
April 26, 2021
This hit me hard.
Think about superheroes, all the big names. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman. All famous for stepping in and saving the day.
All white.
Now imagine that superhero is a teenager black girl. Imagine her struggle when she knows she could use her powers to help people, but also knows that many people that look like her and try to help end up dead.
Nubia is a fantastic entry into the DC Comics line-up and I really hope we see more of this series. It makes you think about representation in comics and the stories being left untold.
My hope is that Nubia becomes a series as well done and long running as the new Ms Marvel.
Think about superheroes, all the big names. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman. All famous for stepping in and saving the day.
All white.
Now imagine that superhero is a teenager black girl. Imagine her struggle when she knows she could use her powers to help people, but also knows that many people that look like her and try to help end up dead.
Nubia is a fantastic entry into the DC Comics line-up and I really hope we see more of this series. It makes you think about representation in comics and the stories being left untold.
My hope is that Nubia becomes a series as well done and long running as the new Ms Marvel.
February 18, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Nubia is a passionate, kind, and strong superhero who is trying to live a normal life with her moms and best friends. But when racist agressions occur in her community, she knows her powers are needed to help those she loves.
This was so cool!! The illustrations and color palette was fun and satisfying to look at. I love the characters and their personalities. It definitely has intense parts, but it’s written in a real and powerful way. This was so fun!
Nubia is a passionate, kind, and strong superhero who is trying to live a normal life with her moms and best friends. But when racist agressions occur in her community, she knows her powers are needed to help those she loves.
This was so cool!! The illustrations and color palette was fun and satisfying to look at. I love the characters and their personalities. It definitely has intense parts, but it’s written in a real and powerful way. This was so fun!
September 11, 2021
I'm not that into superheroes.
There are a lot of reasons for that, which I've gotten into a little bit in other reviews.
And this is a legit DC-published superhero book.
But OMG it does NOT FEEL LIKE IT.
I literally keep double checking to see if DC actually published it.
McKinney and illustrator Robyn Smith do an amazing job of rooting this story in real life. In the Black Lives Matter movement, in how being a superhero, having superhero powers would actually play out in the real world. At how the police would react to a super strong Black teenager.
It's real, it's heavy, it's important. I'm so glad I read it.
One note: the way the cover is drawn, I expected Nubia to be 1. butch and 2. fat. I was disappointed to find that she's fairly femme and quite thin inside. Don't rep tease us! :)
There are a lot of reasons for that, which I've gotten into a little bit in other reviews.
And this is a legit DC-published superhero book.
But OMG it does NOT FEEL LIKE IT.
I literally keep double checking to see if DC actually published it.
McKinney and illustrator Robyn Smith do an amazing job of rooting this story in real life. In the Black Lives Matter movement, in how being a superhero, having superhero powers would actually play out in the real world. At how the police would react to a super strong Black teenager.
It's real, it's heavy, it's important. I'm so glad I read it.
One note: the way the cover is drawn, I expected Nubia to be 1. butch and 2. fat. I was disappointed to find that she's fairly femme and quite thin inside. Don't rep tease us! :)
February 27, 2021
Thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC of Nubia: Real one in exchange for an honest review.
Nubia has single-handedly turned me into a superhero comic fan. Everything about this was so well done. From the art, to the social commentary, to the intriguing, fast moving plot, but I especially like how real of a character Nubia felt like. When creating someone superhuman, it's often really difficult to keep that character relatable without it feeling unrealistic, but Nubia crushed it.
Nubia has single-handedly turned me into a superhero comic fan. Everything about this was so well done. From the art, to the social commentary, to the intriguing, fast moving plot, but I especially like how real of a character Nubia felt like. When creating someone superhuman, it's often really difficult to keep that character relatable without it feeling unrealistic, but Nubia crushed it.
August 2, 2022
This book is so racist.
I would give this zero stars if I could. This book is so racist towards white people. If the roles were reversed, people would be losing it! But NOOOO, because it's racist towards white people, that's completely fine. I can't stand this book. It's worse than I am not Starfire.
Oh yeah, I said it, I went there
I would give this zero stars if I could. This book is so racist towards white people. If the roles were reversed, people would be losing it! But NOOOO, because it's racist towards white people, that's completely fine. I can't stand this book. It's worse than I am not Starfire.
Oh yeah, I said it, I went there
Shelved as 'to-read-so-bad-it-hurts'
June 8, 2020I absolutely CANNOT wait to read this comic by a Black author, a Black illustrator and a Black colorist, the true rep and it shows
April 3, 2021
Absolute. Utter. GARBAGE.
May 19, 2021
4.5/5 stars
June 10, 2022
Story ☆☆☆
Art ☆☆☆
Issues addressed ☆☆☆☆
Overall ☆☆☆
I wouldn't read again, but I would recommend to teenagers.
Art ☆☆☆
Issues addressed ☆☆☆☆
Overall ☆☆☆
I wouldn't read again, but I would recommend to teenagers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 601 reviews