Book Review: The Wonder Twins: Activate! and The Fall and Rise of the Wonder Twins by Mark Russell and Stephen Byrne

The Wonder Twins: Activate and The Wonder Twins: The Fall and Rise of the Wonder Twins

by Mark Russell (writer) and Stephen Byrne (artist) (YA PB (Graphic Novel) Russell)

 

The Wonder Twins are characters who were introduced into the world of DC Comics back in the late 1970s. Originally created as supporting characters in one of the incarnations of the Saturday morning cartoon, The Superfriends, which starred all the main DC heroes — Superman, Flash, Aquaman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, etc.

 

Jayna and Zan were twins — sister and brother — from an alien planet, and had super powers which only became active when they fist-bumped and shouted “Wonder Twin Powers — Activate!” Jayna could shapechange into any animal, and Zan could shapechange into any form that water could take. In their cartoon TV series appearances, they were often comic relief — especially as they were accompanied by their pet space monkey, Gleep!

 

Over the years, the characters have made various appearances in DC comic books, establishing them as part of the DC universe beyond that cartoon show. However, their “origins” have been reinvented several times. In 2019, writer Mark Russell and artist Stephen Byrne started a six-issue limited series that re-established their place in current DC comics heirarchy — they are alien visitors, immigrants, currently working as interns for the Justice League in the “Hall of Justice”. The initial 6-issue mini-series was a hit and expanded to a 12-issue maxi-series. Both halves of that series were released as trade paperbacks.

 

The writing in this extended story is very humorous and pokes a lot of fun at the decades these characters have spent as “second bananas”. But, at the same time, a serious story is being told, addressing issues of racism, identity, “social justice” and how easy it is to manipulate the public. The artwork is clean and sharp and distinctive. I really enjoyed these two graphic novels, and am disappointed to know this is not an ongoing series.

[ Wikipedia history of The Wonder Twins ] | [ Wikipedia page for Mark Russell ] | [ official Stephen Byrne Instagram ]

 

Recommended by Scott C.
Bennett Martin Public Library — Public Service

 

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