Shazam: Monster Society of Evil # 1 (of 4)
DC COMICS
WRITER/ARTIST/COVER: Jeff Smith

This miniseries, by Jeff Smith, the award-winning writer-artist behind "Bone" is a retelling of the origin of Captain Marvel but with his own personal touches mixed in. It starts with Billy Batson, living in poverty on the streets, only to be summoned to become the new vessel of the power of Shazam. He soon learns of an impending threat to Earth that he must face. But this isn't just a repeat of an old Golden-Age story. Smith brings in some new elements as well, such as having the good captain and Billy exist side-by-side, raising questions as to whether Captain Marvel is a spirit that inhabits Billy or if Billy actually becomes the captain. He also makes both Billy a very young child, emphasizing the danger and misery of his existance on the street where he is vulnerable to any abusive adult. This book may be aimed at all-ages but that doesn't mean it is shallow or childish. Unlike the smart-mouth kids who overpopulate TV shows and movies nowadays, Billy is clearly overwhelmed by his situation yet this just allows his courage and spirt to shine through even more. The art is clean and well-drafted although it is disappointing to see that Smith hasn't really improved since "Bone." Of course, he may have just hit his peak and even a 'typical' Jeff Smith is a very good one. If Smith can just keep the right mix of whimsy, humour, adventure and mystery, this book could be the sleeper hit of the year. Four and half stars out of five.