It’s the summer of Supergirl between the upcoming movie and also DC Comics celebrating the character. Launching the comics celebration is Summer of Supergirl Special #1, which features three tales, one of which delivers on that movie synergy thanks to the inclusion of Lobo. Can the story lift up the character and reveal what makes her truly special? The answer is a definitive yes.
Kicking off this anthology is the lengthiest tale by writer Sophie Campbell and Belén Ortega, which spins out of Lobo #4. Supergirl and Lobo have been arrested, along with their pets, after trashing a Kryptonian storage facility. Campbell plays around with the unreliable narrator, first with Lobo lying through his teeth that he’s innocent, and later with Supergirl’s lawyer lying as well. It’s a fun way to remix the events of Lobo #4 while also highlighting how Supergirl is pure good and Lobo is a real jerk. Throw in Lobo’s daughter, and there’s a nice queer energy tacked on for good measure.
The main story ends up being quite fun, even if it’s rather simple. After the court ruling, Supergirl heads back to Earth and watches over Lobo’s dog. She happens to have two pets of her own, which creates a bit of chaos in the typical American suburban neighborhood. This eventually leads to Lobo returning from his sentence, scrapping with Supergirl, and the consensus that Lobo may actually have a heart. It’s all quite light, aided by Ortega’s animated and cheery art style. Fight scenes are great, leaning into Supergirl having a temper of her own, and also the enhanced speed of both main characters.
A lighthearted and well drawn opening story.
Credit: DC Comics
Next up is Gail Simone and Emma Kubert’s “Lost Girls” story. The tale features Mary Marvel and Supergirl teaming up against a rather powerful robot villain. The fight is the entry point and not the main focus, as Simone focuses much more on the friendship and kinship between the two characters. Simone explores the deeper implications of Mary being without a family and how she could use a big sister if Supergirl were to have her. A wholesome story with a lot of heart, even if it’s a lot of talking and hanging out without any of the super stuff.
Last but not least is Mark Waid and Cian Tormey’s “Who is Supergirl?” which feels like a handy guide to Supergirl’s complicated history told via data files on the Watchtower. Superboy and Jon Kent are doing a bit of research with Steel, warts and all. That includes a cool shot of all of Supergirl’s costumes, and a reminder of just how many jobs she’s had over the years. The creative team adeptly navigates these complications with a bit of humor and makes sure it’s clear she’s had a complicated past. A touching bit about why Clark dropped her at an orphanage is well put, and by the end, it’s clear she’s not a flat character in the slightest.
Summer of Supergirl Special #1 succeeds as both a celebration of the character and a reminder of why she remains one of DC’s most compelling heroes. Each creative team approaches Kara from a different angle, whether through lighthearted cosmic chaos, heartfelt friendship, or a reflection on her long and often complicated history. The result is an anthology that captures her strength, kindness, and determination without losing sight of the challenges that have shaped her. While some stories resonate more strongly than others, the collection as a whole leaves little doubt that Supergirl deserves the spotlight currently shining on her. It’s an enjoyable and welcoming tribute that longtime fans and newcomers alike can appreciate.
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