When you’re a big superhero such as the World’s Finest, oftentimes you’ll inherit a 5th-dimensional imp. Superman has Mxyzptlk, Batman has Bat-Mite. If you’re Nightwing, that means you too get to inherit a 5th-dimensional imp too! Dick Grayson’s life gets more complicated as Nite-Mite appears! But, is he friend or foe?

Tom Taylor takes a moment to provide readers with a breather issue after previously writing a blockbuster arc. This is a fun one-shot issue that sets up plot elements while maintaining itself as a little standalone story that highlights why Nightwing is a compelling character compared to all of the other heroes within the DCU and in comics in general. He isn’t as bleak as his predecessor, Bruce. And he isn’t as powerful as his peers such as Superman. What makes Nightwing unique is his willingness to keep his boots to the ground, his optimism, and staying connected with his community of Bludhaven and given that Nite-Mite also parallels those traits, makes him a welcomed addition to the universe. Taylor adds some hilarious nods to Nightwing’s history, and even addresses Nite-Mite’s presence and abilities in thoughtful ways that fit well within this issue. It’s a surprisingly pleasant and adorable story that’s joyfully hilarious and genuinely sweet. .

What highlights Taylor’s writing further is the beautifully animated, manga-esque art of Danielle Di Nicuolo whose stylistic work meshes so well with the character and the city of Bludhaven. Readers get to see Nicuolo’s rendition of Nightwing and his cast of friends as they all look cool under his penmanship. Nicuolo’s layouts are also dynamic, constantly breaking between panels, and paired with Adrian Luca’s vibrant colorwork and Wes Abbott’s lettering, it’s a book packed full of genuine fun. This is a great breather issue and another one of those Tom Taylor one-shot stories that is full of heart, which is worth adding to your pull list for new comic book day.

By Anthony Andujar Jr.

Anthony Andujar Jr. is an NYC cartoonist and lover of comics and music. So much so that it led him to writing comic book reviews in between it all.