D
C Comics
Story by Laurie Halse Anderson
Art by Leila del Duca
Wonder Woman: Tempest Tossed is the latest in DC’s fantastic young adults line, written by New York Times bestselling author Laurie Halse (Speak, Shout) Anderson and artist Leila del Duca. This coming of age story feels so vital right, proving a truly empowering tale for teenagers around the World.
It’s Princess Diana of Themyscira’s 16th birthday and she’s hoping this is the day she finally gets accepted into the warrior tribe of Amazons. But her life is turned upside down when a raft of refugees somehow breaks though the Themysciran barrier that separates their island from the outside world. In an attempt to help save the refugees, she finds herself caught in the storm and swept away from everything she ever knew. Lost far away from home, Diana has to adapt to becoming a refugee in a terrifying world outside of the perfect Themyscira.
Following the recent release of Wonder Woman: Warbringer and Diana: Princess of the Amazons, I did initially question whether we really needed another Wonder Woman book – but thankfully I was quickly proven wrong!
This novel is a powerful and timely reimagining on Diana’s origin; covering important social and political issues such as refugee rights, corruption, human trafficking and racism, whilst incorporating her iconic mythos such as the lasso of truth. The Amazon’s transformation from naive girl wanting more than ever to fit in, to a trailblazer carving her own path for social justice, perfectly embodies the character’s values, rooted in a modern setting.
Thanks to the kindness shown from Steve and his husband Trevor, (a doctor and a UN aid worker), the young woman starts a new life in America, inspired to help those less fortunate than herself. She’s accepted into a supportive Polish family, making friends with a young social activist who helps Diana find her place in the world. The novel brilliantly highlights the importance of communities and friendship in a truly moving tale which shines a light on the plight of immigrants.
For a book targeted at the YA audience, Anderson doesn’t shy away from tackling some pretty tough topics such as child trafficking and homelessness, but this is well balanced with the more comedic moments. Personally I would have liked to see a couple more WW or DC characters included, but due to the themes and real world parallel, I understand why
they were left out.
Verdict
Just like Superman Smashes the Klan, Wonder Woman: Tempest Tossed is a truly impactful and important read right now. Wonderfully brought to life by Del Duca’s artwork, Anderson admirably forges a new chapter for the princess, rooted in community action and activism.
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