Publisher's Weekly Review
Proving that there are some wells that never run dry, DC presents another take on the institution known as the Justice League of America. Scripted with a high emphasis on character development by novelist Meltzer (Identity Crisis), the story has the feeling of a fresh start, even if its climax falls somewhat flat. It starts as Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman are bickering over who should join the JLA, with some hurt feelings to follow. The main arc is an affecting one, following the efforts of the Red Tornado-who's starting to get annoyed with having died so many times-to get back into his android body, or failing that, a mortal one so that he can be reunited with his beloved Kathy and adopted son. This ties in with scattered skirmishes between a JLA squad and a mob of evil Tornado clones. The series starts off stiffly, piling in a lot of exposition between cutting back to the JLA leaders' membership quarrels and crowding the story with a league of minor characters It's best seen as a competent new kickoff for the series rather than a stand-alone graphic novel. (June) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Library Journal Review
Following the shattering events of Identity Crisis and Infinite Crisis, the Justice League disbanded-but as this suspenseful and emotionally powerful story begins, Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman are voting on who will be asked to join a new league. Meanwhile, the Red Tornado, a robot with a soul, is offered the thing he wants most: a human body. But when his robot body subsequently disappears, the Tornado begins a harrowing trial that tests his resolve to remain flesh and blood as he finds himself central to a plot involving three classic Justice League villains and an immortal man who wants to die. Meltzer alienated some superhero fans with the controversial Identity Crisis, but this is a book to bring many of those readers back. Here, Meltzer treats all the heroes, including such lesser-known ones as Black Lightning and Vixen, with respect and insight; makes good use of supporting players, like the Metal Men; and even teaches the three icons holding the others in judgment a lesson in humility. With his powerful figures, Benes proves himself an excellent exponent of the idealized realism of superhero comics. With some gore, this is for teens and up and is strongly recommended.-S.R. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.