Reviews

A Valhalla for doddering superfolk in the twilight of their powers-not much excitement, eh? An aging group from the World War II generation have retired to Tranquility, a planned California community designed to guarantee them golden years of peace. But these senior "maxis" (superheroes and supervillains) just aren't rocking-chair types. With squabbles and mishaps that tear up the town, Sheriff Thomasina Lindo keeps pretty busy. Then two outside reporters witness a murder and maxis old and young are drawn into the aftershocks and Lindo's investigation. Several murders later, an originally benevolent conspiracy comes to light, and the heroes' dark sides burst forth when payback time-and the long night of death-threatens. Simone and Googe pull off a splendid blend: intricate and surprising plotting, characters to love, and emotional depth as well as satisfying action. Certainly the story is unique in its extensive and balanced portrayal of older characters as well as teens. The art keeps pace with fun details like the Hello Kitty skull buckle on Goth-girl Leona's belt. Simone works in good-humored send-ups of aging, superhero cliches, and nostalgia-1950s-style comics insets and handbills throughout offer flashbacks to the maxis' youthful triumphs. With sexual subthemes discreetly depicted, it's appropriate for ages 16+, but it's better for adult collections for its boomer appeal.-M.C. Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.