In
the aftermath of the Phantom Ring conflict, we take a bit of a breather – if
you can call a JLA battle combined with a handful of minor crises as a
breather. This issue chronicles a day in the life of Jessica Cruz. Despite her
ongoing heroics as a Green Lantern, she continues to struggle with her fears
and anxiety. She makes battling monsters look easy, but often, just crawling
out of bed in the morning is the real struggle.
The
established partnership between Jessica and Simon comes to the fore as they
become MVPs of the JLA. This level of super-heroism leads directly into the
next story, as another hero seeks their help, to be chronicled next issue, and
possibly beyond.
Much has been
made of Jessica’s psychological issues, so much so that it perhaps becomes
tiresome to see it brought up every
issue. However, such is the nature of crippling emotional issues: it’s a daily
struggle that never rests. To his credit, Simon steps up as a good partner
should. It’s almost never a 50/50 balance. True partnerships ebb and flow, with
one often lending a greater share of assistance, so that the team is greater
than the sum of its parts.
And such is
the team that puts Green Lanterns together, issue after issue. New this time
around are Miguel Mendonca and Scott Hanna. Together, their work is consistent
with the art we’ve seen in prior issues, and I mean that in a good way. Strong
rendering, inventive technique, and worthy additions to Team Lanterns.