Kate Kane

I love reading - I'm a fan of lots of different genres in many formats from novels and short stories to webcomics and graphic novels. But, the classic comic book will always have a special place in my reading list. I keep up with a few current titles, but I'd like to focus on one in particular - Kate Kane as the new Batwoman.

Batwoman has been around for quite some time, but never really featured in her own right. She was originally introduced as a love interest for Batman to dispel any hint of homosexuality in the comic book during the 1950s. This becomes superbly ironic with the re-introduction of Batwoman in the form of Kate Kane - a Jewish lesbian.

Kate Kane first appeared in the series 52 in 2006 taking care of Gotham in Batman's absence. After that she becomes the lead in Detective Comics from issue 854 to 863. This story arc was then published as Batwoman: Elegy.

I love the art in Batwoman. The story is amazing and doesn't disappoint. It's also quite current, especially in light of the Don't Ask Don't Tell controversies and repeals happening now in America. In Elegy, Kate herself leaves the military because she doesn't agree with the DADT policy. This comic could easily have turned into a major lesbian political battle, but it doesn't become a preaching soap box. And I think that's how it should be - the issues are addressed, but Kate Kane's sexuality isn't what defines her. Just as heterosexuality is handled in other comics.

And of course, the devoted geek in me is loving the amazing story and action and pure awesomeness! Can't wait for Kate Kane's own comic!