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Wonder Woman (2016)
Wonder Woman, Tome 1: Année un
Il y a cinq ans, le monde a découvert les premiers super-héros avec Batman et Superman, mais rien ne les préparait à l'arrivée de Diana, la princesse amazone de Themyscira ! Ayant accompagné l'agent de l'A.R.G.U.S. Steve Trevor dans ce qu'elle appelle « le monde des hommes », elle se voit attribuée le pseudonyme de Wonder Woman et rencontre ses premiers ennemis ! Contenu : Wonder Woman Rebirth Vol.2 : Year One (#2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14)
168 pages, Hardcover
First published May 9, 2017
95 people are currently reading
1834 people want to read
About the author
Greg Rucka
1,495 books1,923 followersGreg Rucka, is an American comic book writer and novelist, known for his work on such comics as Action Comics, Batwoman: Detective Comics, and the miniseries Superman: World of New Krypton for DC Comics, and for novels such as his Queen & Country series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 523 reviews
August 24, 2017
4.5 stars
I remember this made headlines when it was confirmed that yes Wonder Woman is indeed bisexual.
gasp!
Although, is anyone really surprised? She lived on an island with nothing except a bunch of women. I think all of us but the most naive already assumed she played for both teams.
Duh.
I was a bit more surprised by Etta and Barbara Ann (soon to be Cheetah) having a thing for each other. And part of me felt like Damn, Rucka! That's a lotta lesbians you got smooshed in there!, but since it didn't come off like he was trying to cram in a bunch of low-budget girl on girl scenes into this one, I was ultimately fine with it. I mean, there are a lot of women who prefer the ladies, so...
The art was also bajillion times better (in my opinion) than some of the art in volume one. I like this style, and the consistency throughout the volume made me happy.
A lot of my friends have complained that we did not need another orgin story for Diana. And possibly they're right.
But I actually liked this retelling of it. Plus, who knows what's going to happen to Azarello's goddess version once this whole Rebirth mess is over with, especially since she's on a quest to find out the truth now that she's supposedly remembering different timelines. It seemed to me like Rucka might have been doing us all a favor with this.
I'm not sure how I felt about all the gods coming down and bestowing gifts on her and helping her out during her fight with the Big Bad. I'm still a bit on the fence over the way they, in animal form, handed over a cell phone with the info the good guys needed to save the day. Half me thought it was cool, and the other half of me thought it looked a bit Snow White-ish and silly.
You know, I get it, everyone seems to believe that animals are a good judge of characters, so anyone they trust must be a WONDERful person...
But I'm here to say that sometimes animals are just stupid as fuck and don't know what the hell they're doing. For example, all chihuahua's hate me for some reason. Those are the only dogs I've ever been bitten by in my entire life <-- which had been FILLED with dogs! You know, my next door neighbors have one that can't poop if anyone is outside because the tiny fucker can't stop snarling at all of us long enough to relax his sphincter and shit. In fact, there's another little bastard that chases me every time I go past his house on my nightly walk. The neighborhood pitbulls LOVE me, but not the Taco Bell mascot? Ugh. And to all of you who would defend this breed - they aren't even real dogs, they're just squirrels on steroids.
Shit. What was I talking about?
Oh yes. I'm not sure how to feel about Diana and the woodland creatures.
But I did like the way life on Themyscira was portrayed. Especially, the mother daughter relationship between Diana and Hippolyta. I thought it was cool that the Queen wasn't portrayed as being cloying, or smothering her daughter like some sort of ancient version of the helicopter parent. It was sweet and you could see how much they both loved each other.
And the facial expressions were fabulous when it came to portraying the emotions in the panels.
Plus, the Amazons were just badass.
And then there's the issue that tells Barbara Ann's origin story. Ok, I know a lot of you aren't all that excited by Cheetah, but I've always liked her. Plus, this explains why WW needed her help in volume one. I really want more Minverva in the coming issues! Maybe a full Cheetah origin?! *big pleading eyes*
Steve. <--Awwwww!
If I didn't already love him, this would have tipped the scales. Just a really good representation of the guy. Strong, smart, and most of all just a kind person. This guy is much more likable than the New 52 version.
Also, my apologies if you were someone who was reading this as floppies. WTF? No idea what was the goal with the alternating issues, but it seems incredibly stupid since this volume tells one story and the last one tells something completely different. Jesus. I can't even imagine...
But if you're reading it in volume form it comes across as one flawless story.
Anyway, this might be another of those love it or hate it titles.
Personally, I loved it!
I remember this made headlines when it was confirmed that yes Wonder Woman is indeed bisexual.
gasp!
Although, is anyone really surprised? She lived on an island with nothing except a bunch of women. I think all of us but the most naive already assumed she played for both teams.
Duh.
I was a bit more surprised by Etta and Barbara Ann (soon to be Cheetah) having a thing for each other. And part of me felt like Damn, Rucka! That's a lotta lesbians you got smooshed in there!, but since it didn't come off like he was trying to cram in a bunch of low-budget girl on girl scenes into this one, I was ultimately fine with it. I mean, there are a lot of women who prefer the ladies, so...
The art was also bajillion times better (in my opinion) than some of the art in volume one. I like this style, and the consistency throughout the volume made me happy.
A lot of my friends have complained that we did not need another orgin story for Diana. And possibly they're right.
But I actually liked this retelling of it. Plus, who knows what's going to happen to Azarello's goddess version once this whole Rebirth mess is over with, especially since she's on a quest to find out the truth now that she's supposedly remembering different timelines. It seemed to me like Rucka might have been doing us all a favor with this.
I'm not sure how I felt about all the gods coming down and bestowing gifts on her and helping her out during her fight with the Big Bad. I'm still a bit on the fence over the way they, in animal form, handed over a cell phone with the info the good guys needed to save the day. Half me thought it was cool, and the other half of me thought it looked a bit Snow White-ish and silly.
You know, I get it, everyone seems to believe that animals are a good judge of characters, so anyone they trust must be a WONDERful person...
But I'm here to say that sometimes animals are just stupid as fuck and don't know what the hell they're doing. For example, all chihuahua's hate me for some reason. Those are the only dogs I've ever been bitten by in my entire life <-- which had been FILLED with dogs! You know, my next door neighbors have one that can't poop if anyone is outside because the tiny fucker can't stop snarling at all of us long enough to relax his sphincter and shit. In fact, there's another little bastard that chases me every time I go past his house on my nightly walk. The neighborhood pitbulls LOVE me, but not the Taco Bell mascot? Ugh. And to all of you who would defend this breed - they aren't even real dogs, they're just squirrels on steroids.
Shit. What was I talking about?
Oh yes. I'm not sure how to feel about Diana and the woodland creatures.
But I did like the way life on Themyscira was portrayed. Especially, the mother daughter relationship between Diana and Hippolyta. I thought it was cool that the Queen wasn't portrayed as being cloying, or smothering her daughter like some sort of ancient version of the helicopter parent. It was sweet and you could see how much they both loved each other.
And the facial expressions were fabulous when it came to portraying the emotions in the panels.
Plus, the Amazons were just badass.
And then there's the issue that tells Barbara Ann's origin story. Ok, I know a lot of you aren't all that excited by Cheetah, but I've always liked her. Plus, this explains why WW needed her help in volume one. I really want more Minverva in the coming issues! Maybe a full Cheetah origin?! *big pleading eyes*
Steve. <--Awwwww!
If I didn't already love him, this would have tipped the scales. Just a really good representation of the guy. Strong, smart, and most of all just a kind person. This guy is much more likable than the New 52 version.
Also, my apologies if you were someone who was reading this as floppies. WTF? No idea what was the goal with the alternating issues, but it seems incredibly stupid since this volume tells one story and the last one tells something completely different. Jesus. I can't even imagine...
But if you're reading it in volume form it comes across as one flawless story.
Anyway, this might be another of those love it or hate it titles.
Personally, I loved it!
August 23, 2017
The art in this is STUNNING 😍😍
May 3, 2017
As Greg Rucka was writing two Wonder Woman storylines simultaneously, probably to keep the same artist for the duration of each arc, allowing them extra time to draw the issues while also sticking to DC’s double-shipping schedule, his second Wonder Woman Rebirth book doesn’t follow on from the first - instead it’s a retelling of her origin. For the umpteenth time. Sigh. While the title “Year One” references the classic Batman book of the same name, Wonder Woman: Year One is unfortunately nowhere near the same quality.
Wonder Woman and the Amazons live on Themyscira, la la la, female paradise, etc. Then Steve Trevor crashes his plane near the island and Princess Diana learns of the outside world. Stevie boy gets healed up, Diana proves herself to be Champion of the Amazons, and the two head back to our world where she develops her powers and becomes Wonder Woman. In other words, the usual by-the-numbers story!
I don’t know what DC are thinking when they commission books like this. Last year we had two high-profile Wonder Woman origin books (both of which were better than this one): Grant Morrison/Yanick Paquette’s Wonder Woman: Earth One and Jill Thompson’s Wonder Woman: The True Amazon. So Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott’s Year One makes the third Wonder Woman origin in just over twelve months! How many origin retellings do we need?! And you know the Wonder Woman movie is gonna be more of the same – bah!
Scott’s artwork was high quality as always and the sniper shootout in the mall was an interesting scene but for the most part I was immensely bored reading this. Standard characterisations – check, dreary exposition galore – check, arbitrary villain - check, rushed, lame final fight – check; Wonder Woman: Year One is an uninspired, unexceptional, uninsightful and unnecessary re-tread of Diana’s origin. Maybe those readers who’ve never read her origin before will get more out of this book but Earth One and The True Amazon do the job far better anyway - check those out instead of this tedium.
Wonder Woman and the Amazons live on Themyscira, la la la, female paradise, etc. Then Steve Trevor crashes his plane near the island and Princess Diana learns of the outside world. Stevie boy gets healed up, Diana proves herself to be Champion of the Amazons, and the two head back to our world where she develops her powers and becomes Wonder Woman. In other words, the usual by-the-numbers story!
I don’t know what DC are thinking when they commission books like this. Last year we had two high-profile Wonder Woman origin books (both of which were better than this one): Grant Morrison/Yanick Paquette’s Wonder Woman: Earth One and Jill Thompson’s Wonder Woman: The True Amazon. So Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott’s Year One makes the third Wonder Woman origin in just over twelve months! How many origin retellings do we need?! And you know the Wonder Woman movie is gonna be more of the same – bah!
Scott’s artwork was high quality as always and the sniper shootout in the mall was an interesting scene but for the most part I was immensely bored reading this. Standard characterisations – check, dreary exposition galore – check, arbitrary villain - check, rushed, lame final fight – check; Wonder Woman: Year One is an uninspired, unexceptional, uninsightful and unnecessary re-tread of Diana’s origin. Maybe those readers who’ve never read her origin before will get more out of this book but Earth One and The True Amazon do the job far better anyway - check those out instead of this tedium.
June 30, 2019
Wonder Woman gets retconned again. The new origin takes a lot of the elements of George Perez's version of WW's origin but with better storytelling. Diana leaves Themyscira to take Steve Trevor back to the outside world. Because she doesn't speak any English, Dr. Minerva is brought into communicate with her. I loved this addition to the supporting cast. I really liked enjoyed Minerva and Diana becoming friends when you know she will eventually become Cheetah. Rucka does a wonderful job of writing Diana as someone experiencing modern society for the first time. The Gods show up in animal form to grant Diana her powers. I'm curious how Rucka will integrate this take on the Gods with Azzarello's surreal take since both stories are still set in the new 52. Wonder Woman first appears in public when terrorists attack a mall she's visiting. Nicola Scott's art really shines here. I love how she portrays Wonder Woman's powers in the action scenes. It's absolutely fantastic. The only let down in the book to me was when she fought Ares. There was this big build up for him and then he's defeated in no time. It would have worked better if we built up to him over a few story arcs. The last issue was a stand alone story from Dr. Minerva's past.
Received an advance copy from DC and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received an advance copy from DC and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2017
This is a volume sure to divide opinions as, yes, it is a retelling of an origin story. I myself feel like it was treading some very familiar ground, having read "Wonder Woman: Earth One" not too long ago.
Taken on its own, however, I feel that Mr Rucka does a great job re-engaging with the character and (amazingly, given the decades of character history and mythos) overtly and tastefully acknowledging the fact that there would be same-sex romantic partnerships on an all-female island, with the title character being no exception. The notion of a virginal Diana of Themyscira waiting untold centuries for the arrival of a "real man" is a quite dated one, and I find it serves the story better that she connects with Steve thanks to mutual respect and admiration and not just because he happens to be the first biped with a penis she has encountered.
A word on the art: Wonderful! I love it when the faces are this expressive, and each character has clearly identifiable features even when in the background. This attention to detail didn't go unnoticed, guys!
Lastly, it appears Mr Rucka has taken it upon himself to flesh out Cheetah as a villain, I only worry that all this tragic backstory will only work to make her much more sympathetic, or even more of an ally than an antagonist. Trust the process, I guess!
Taken on its own, however, I feel that Mr Rucka does a great job re-engaging with the character and (amazingly, given the decades of character history and mythos) overtly and tastefully acknowledging the fact that there would be same-sex romantic partnerships on an all-female island, with the title character being no exception. The notion of a virginal Diana of Themyscira waiting untold centuries for the arrival of a "real man" is a quite dated one, and I find it serves the story better that she connects with Steve thanks to mutual respect and admiration and not just because he happens to be the first biped with a penis she has encountered.
A word on the art: Wonderful! I love it when the faces are this expressive, and each character has clearly identifiable features even when in the background. This attention to detail didn't go unnoticed, guys!
Lastly, it appears Mr Rucka has taken it upon himself to flesh out Cheetah as a villain, I only worry that all this tragic backstory will only work to make her much more sympathetic, or even more of an ally than an antagonist. Trust the process, I guess!
February 19, 2019
I wasn't a fan of Rucka's first Rebirth volume of Wonder Woman, but I really enjoyed the movie, and that made me want to read more comics about her. First I finally finished Brian Azzarello's run (turned out to be pretty good in the end, by the way), after which I decided to pick up Year One. I'm glad I gave Rucka another chance, because this volume was really good! And that's extremely rare for Rebirth.
First of all though, I have to say: whoever at DC is responsible for the structuring of this entire run done f'd up. This volume, although it's collected as Volume 2, should definitely be read before the first one, or at least in conjunction with the first one, issue by issue. It's an origin story, duh! And not just that, but this volume introduces some plot points that are necessary for better understanding of the plot in the first book! And if you think that's bad, get this: the finale of Rucka's run is going to be in issue 25. Here's the solicitation text for that issue: "Writer Greg Rucka weaves together the threads of “The Lies,” “Year One,” “The Truth,” and “Godwatch”—every story in WONDER WOMAN since the start of the DC Universe Rebirth era—in this extra-sized anniversary issue!" Can you guess in which volume this issue will be collected? Volume 3. After which we'll get volume 4, which will contain issues that come before that one. Oh DC, why do you make my head hurt so bad?
But enough about the bad stuff! Like I said, this volume was really good. Yes, it's yet another Wonder Woman origin story, which seems unnecessary, but it was done so well that I really didn't mind. I am not always a fan of Rucka's writing, but I have to give him credit — he writes Diana perfectly. She's very kind, without any sass or sarcasm, but she's not naive, either. In an era when Superman is either a hateful, brooding bastard in the movies, or is helmed by a sexual predator at DC comics (2019 update: this was in relation to Eddie Berganza, who was finally fired soon after this review, coincidentally), Diana is THE character to take Supe's place.
Plot-wise, if you've seen the movie, this comic will seem a tad familiar. The setting is different, sure — instead of the World War I, the comic is set in the modern world. But many other plot points are present in this book, too. Unfortunately, just like the movie, the comic also suffers from the same sloppy third act. When the big bad shows up in the final issue, it feels too sudden, with virtually no buildup, and the resolution to that fight comes too quickly and too easily for Diana. That's just a small complaint though, and in both cases it didn't really hurt the overall experience.
You know what? This volume was so good, it actually made me want to go back and reread the first one, because I'm pretty sure the story there will make more sense to me now. But to anyone who's looking for a great WW comic, I definitely recommend Year One! Just remember, this Volume 2 should be read either BEFORE or together with Volume 1.
First of all though, I have to say: whoever at DC is responsible for the structuring of this entire run done f'd up. This volume, although it's collected as Volume 2, should definitely be read before the first one, or at least in conjunction with the first one, issue by issue. It's an origin story, duh! And not just that, but this volume introduces some plot points that are necessary for better understanding of the plot in the first book! And if you think that's bad, get this: the finale of Rucka's run is going to be in issue 25. Here's the solicitation text for that issue: "Writer Greg Rucka weaves together the threads of “The Lies,” “Year One,” “The Truth,” and “Godwatch”—every story in WONDER WOMAN since the start of the DC Universe Rebirth era—in this extra-sized anniversary issue!" Can you guess in which volume this issue will be collected? Volume 3. After which we'll get volume 4, which will contain issues that come before that one. Oh DC, why do you make my head hurt so bad?
But enough about the bad stuff! Like I said, this volume was really good. Yes, it's yet another Wonder Woman origin story, which seems unnecessary, but it was done so well that I really didn't mind. I am not always a fan of Rucka's writing, but I have to give him credit — he writes Diana perfectly. She's very kind, without any sass or sarcasm, but she's not naive, either. In an era when Superman is either a hateful, brooding bastard in the movies, or is helmed by a sexual predator at DC comics (2019 update: this was in relation to Eddie Berganza, who was finally fired soon after this review, coincidentally), Diana is THE character to take Supe's place.
Plot-wise, if you've seen the movie, this comic will seem a tad familiar. The setting is different, sure — instead of the World War I, the comic is set in the modern world. But many other plot points are present in this book, too. Unfortunately, just like the movie, the comic also suffers from the same sloppy third act. When the big bad shows up in the final issue, it feels too sudden, with virtually no buildup, and the resolution to that fight comes too quickly and too easily for Diana. That's just a small complaint though, and in both cases it didn't really hurt the overall experience.
You know what? This volume was so good, it actually made me want to go back and reread the first one, because I'm pretty sure the story there will make more sense to me now. But to anyone who's looking for a great WW comic, I definitely recommend Year One! Just remember, this Volume 2 should be read either BEFORE or together with Volume 1.
February 6, 2017
I almost went with a 5. I would have too, if last issue was as good as the rest.
So this is the origins of WW. Now listen, I'm sure this has been done before. I don't really give a fuck about that though. This is my first time reading a Origin Story for Wonder Woman and I thought it was REALLY well done.
So you get to see some time with Diana on the island learning who she is and what she's going to become. Then Steve lands and you get more backstory on his people, and it's actually really sad but luckily not swept into depression. Once you learn even more of what Diana is for and when she leaves the Island it gets even BETTER. The next few issues of Diana learning about us as people is magical and awesome. Like a baby learning to walk she learns everything about the world and it's done really well.
The negative in the story was the last issue. Here comes Ares, the God of War, and he gets taken out in about 7 pages. It was...lame. I thought it be a far bigger treat, more epic, but came up with just a meh feeling in the end.
However, to push score back up is the art, which is WONDERFUL, and some of the best I've seen in awhile. Really gives each person their own look and feel and the action is stunning and easy to follow.
So overall this is a wonderful origins story and a very strong storyline to get into WW. If you just read this by itself it's also really strong. I recommend this for anyone who wants to know about the badass warrior we all love right before her movie comes out! A 4/5.
So this is the origins of WW. Now listen, I'm sure this has been done before. I don't really give a fuck about that though. This is my first time reading a Origin Story for Wonder Woman and I thought it was REALLY well done.
So you get to see some time with Diana on the island learning who she is and what she's going to become. Then Steve lands and you get more backstory on his people, and it's actually really sad but luckily not swept into depression. Once you learn even more of what Diana is for and when she leaves the Island it gets even BETTER. The next few issues of Diana learning about us as people is magical and awesome. Like a baby learning to walk she learns everything about the world and it's done really well.
The negative in the story was the last issue. Here comes Ares, the God of War, and he gets taken out in about 7 pages. It was...lame. I thought it be a far bigger treat, more epic, but came up with just a meh feeling in the end.
However, to push score back up is the art, which is WONDERFUL, and some of the best I've seen in awhile. Really gives each person their own look and feel and the action is stunning and easy to follow.
So overall this is a wonderful origins story and a very strong storyline to get into WW. If you just read this by itself it's also really strong. I recommend this for anyone who wants to know about the badass warrior we all love right before her movie comes out! A 4/5.
October 12, 2024
A fantastic starting point for modern Wonder Woman that welcomes new readers and rewards pre-existing fans. Diana is incredibly endearing, and her dynamic with Steve shines without detracting from her own arc. It reads well, it looks great, there's really not too much to fault here. Presenting a brilliant balance between backstory and progression, Rucka works his magic again and takes his Rebirth run back in the right direction.
actual rating: 4.5 stars
actual rating: 4.5 stars
January 13, 2017
YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES
rucka's wonder woman relaunch is the punchy, optimistic, feminist comic we need right now. it's not perfect--it has wonky pacing issues; the conflict is brought up and resolved within the last two issues--but there's so much heart here.
i mean...
rucka's wonder woman relaunch is the punchy, optimistic, feminist comic we need right now. it's not perfect--it has wonky pacing issues; the conflict is brought up and resolved within the last two issues--but there's so much heart here.
i mean...
October 8, 2022
For me this is the better of the two volumes so far from Rucka and his Wonder Woman rebirth. The other volume did pick up more towards the end, but I enjoyed this one more overall. And the artwork is so good.
August 20, 2021
This was another great one and is a retelling of Wonder Woman's origin and is really well done.
It picks with Diana and how she was born, Steve crashing into the island and the Amazons finding out and then a romance blooming and the trials and the champion goes to Man's world and all that is familiar but I like how Rucka explores her as the foreigner she is in this world and does not understand their language. She meets Etta and Barbara-Ann and I like their friendship and then the coming of the Patron gods and the big fight with Ares until finally we see her becoming WW! Its just such a good volume and is so well done and is like the perfect Year one story for Diana and like is her definitive origin almost.
I like how Rucka throws references to Superman and Batman too here and like shows the mythological side of DCU that Diana bring and its awesome and then we have this great friendship and big war with Ares and confirming Diana's mission: Quest for Peace, but trained for war. I love that plus the art is so well done and gives of Silver Age vibes but is clean and brisk and is just beautiful and has a grace of its own. Overall its a great volume and plus it also has an interesting story with Cheetah at the end and her quest for Paradise Island and its not bad and makes for a fun read.
It picks with Diana and how she was born, Steve crashing into the island and the Amazons finding out and then a romance blooming and the trials and the champion goes to Man's world and all that is familiar but I like how Rucka explores her as the foreigner she is in this world and does not understand their language. She meets Etta and Barbara-Ann and I like their friendship and then the coming of the Patron gods and the big fight with Ares until finally we see her becoming WW! Its just such a good volume and is so well done and is like the perfect Year one story for Diana and like is her definitive origin almost.
I like how Rucka throws references to Superman and Batman too here and like shows the mythological side of DCU that Diana bring and its awesome and then we have this great friendship and big war with Ares and confirming Diana's mission: Quest for Peace, but trained for war. I love that plus the art is so well done and gives of Silver Age vibes but is clean and brisk and is just beautiful and has a grace of its own. Overall its a great volume and plus it also has an interesting story with Cheetah at the end and her quest for Paradise Island and its not bad and makes for a fun read.
October 13, 2024
In the grand tradition of “Year One” series, we get yet another run at Wonder Woman's origin, this time courtesy of Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott. It reads well and looks good, but that’s really the bare minimum we expect from any graphic novel. Does this book break new ground for the character? Mmmmm ... not particularly. Don't get me wrong: it's good and all. But there's not much in the way of new concepts. If you're familiar with the original Marston origin and the Perez version from the 80's, you can see what bits and pieces Rucka has taken from both, as well as adding necessary pieces to make it contemporary to the present day and age. About the most striking new bit--new to me at least; I’m not a regular WW reader so I don't know if it's been done before, though I'm fairly certain it's a post-80’s invention at least--is the addition of a language barrier. Diana doesn't speak English at first--though she does pick it up very quickly--which makes sense given her upbringing and all.
It's basically the familiar origin story: Themyscira inhabited entirely by women, Steve Trevor’s plane crashes, contest to determine a champion, Princess Diana sent to outside world, battles terrorists and eventually a villain she's fought in past issues of various WW titles--no points for guessing who since it's pretty damn obvious--I figured it out many pages before Dr. Minerva did.
I find myself wondering what it would be like to read a graphic novel collecting all of the various versions of Wonder Woman's origin to date? It would be an interesting insight into individual writers' styles at least. Heck, I’d love to read such a book devoted to any hero, not just WW.
Good characters, an interesting beginning, but ultimately nothing out of the ordinary.
It's basically the familiar origin story: Themyscira inhabited entirely by women, Steve Trevor’s plane crashes, contest to determine a champion, Princess Diana sent to outside world, battles terrorists and eventually a villain she's fought in past issues of various WW titles--no points for guessing who since it's pretty damn obvious--I figured it out many pages before Dr. Minerva did.
I find myself wondering what it would be like to read a graphic novel collecting all of the various versions of Wonder Woman's origin to date? It would be an interesting insight into individual writers' styles at least. Heck, I’d love to read such a book devoted to any hero, not just WW.
Good characters, an interesting beginning, but ultimately nothing out of the ordinary.
January 1, 2019
This book is meant to be read in tandem with Vol. 1 of the Wonder Woman Rebirth series, Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Lies, as the first twelve issue rotated between these two stories, with Vol. 1 collecting the odd issues and Vol. 2 collecting the subsequent even issues, and both stories inform the other. So with that in mind, to really appreciate it, especially the somewhat confusing first volume, you probably should read the complete story in issue order in Wonder Woman: Rebirth Deluxe Edition Book 1.
This volume though, could possibly be appreciated on it's own as its a retelling of Wonder Woman's early years and her introduction to the world of man. I know, I know, we're a bit oversaturated with her origin by now, especially with the hit movie, but trust me, this one is probably the best Wonder Woman origin story I've personally read, with some great, modern ideas, and brings the story back to the more classic telling, after the controversial New 52 reimagining. I love that Diana and the people from the world of man don't speak the same language, and that the Amazons (including Diana) have same-sex relationships, both of which make total sense but has never truly been touched on a lot in the past. The sequence where Diana thwarts a terrorist attack is exciting and timely. One of my favorite aspects of this run is what Rucka is doing with Cheetah's character. Here we see the original friendship between Diana and Barbara Ann Minerva, who's depicted as a Lara Croft/Indiana Jones-style adventurer, and who we know will later transform into the cursed villain. They really do a great job at making her interesting and informing her relationship with Diana in The Lies, and makes that book a much better read.
I also loved Nicola Scott's art (who's great work I remember from Black Magick), even more so when you compare it to the odd issues in The Lies. Both books have great art, but (by design I'm sure) Scott's rounder, smoother look plays well with the younger, fresh-eyed characters we see in this origin story, which contrasts with Liam Sharp's more grizzled, hard-edged art in the present day material in The Lies. It's a great effect and I'm sure it would play even more effectively when read in chronological issue order.
Is it original? Not necessarily, but it works as a fun, modern introduction to the character, and an accessible point of entry for people interested after seeing the movie.
This volume though, could possibly be appreciated on it's own as its a retelling of Wonder Woman's early years and her introduction to the world of man. I know, I know, we're a bit oversaturated with her origin by now, especially with the hit movie, but trust me, this one is probably the best Wonder Woman origin story I've personally read, with some great, modern ideas, and brings the story back to the more classic telling, after the controversial New 52 reimagining. I love that Diana and the people from the world of man don't speak the same language, and that the Amazons (including Diana) have same-sex relationships, both of which make total sense but has never truly been touched on a lot in the past. The sequence where Diana thwarts a terrorist attack is exciting and timely. One of my favorite aspects of this run is what Rucka is doing with Cheetah's character. Here we see the original friendship between Diana and Barbara Ann Minerva, who's depicted as a Lara Croft/Indiana Jones-style adventurer, and who we know will later transform into the cursed villain. They really do a great job at making her interesting and informing her relationship with Diana in The Lies, and makes that book a much better read.
I also loved Nicola Scott's art (who's great work I remember from Black Magick), even more so when you compare it to the odd issues in The Lies. Both books have great art, but (by design I'm sure) Scott's rounder, smoother look plays well with the younger, fresh-eyed characters we see in this origin story, which contrasts with Liam Sharp's more grizzled, hard-edged art in the present day material in The Lies. It's a great effect and I'm sure it would play even more effectively when read in chronological issue order.
Is it original? Not necessarily, but it works as a fun, modern introduction to the character, and an accessible point of entry for people interested after seeing the movie.
November 9, 2021
Loved it. The barriers of entry in the comics world are so high. It is very difficult to know where to jump into a story. I had picked up a random Wonder Woman comic and it didn't make any sense to me without the background. So what do you do when your daughter wants to get into her favourite super hero? You pick up this book.
The author gives you a glimpse of life in Themyscira, her mythology, Diana's dreams of the world behind her shores, and how she came to kick ass into the world of men. All the bases are covered for novices like me. Steve, a US soldier is introduced, as well as Dr. M, a very interesting character key to our understanding of the Amazons.
The artwork is very good, especially when Diana takes on the Hares with a little help from her friends. I loved how she went from apologetic to savage warrior in a second.
The kid loved it, too. We had a good time and even laughed at how Steve always manages to take of his shirt. We get it dude, you're ripped.
Great stuff and I hope to read more, but where do we go now?
The author gives you a glimpse of life in Themyscira, her mythology, Diana's dreams of the world behind her shores, and how she came to kick ass into the world of men. All the bases are covered for novices like me. Steve, a US soldier is introduced, as well as Dr. M, a very interesting character key to our understanding of the Amazons.
The artwork is very good, especially when Diana takes on the Hares with a little help from her friends. I loved how she went from apologetic to savage warrior in a second.
The kid loved it, too. We had a good time and even laughed at how Steve always manages to take of his shirt. We get it dude, you're ripped.
Great stuff and I hope to read more, but where do we go now?
May 30, 2017
A truly wonderful retelling of the Wonder Woman origin for a new generation. Greg Rucka makes a risky gamble and decides to to write not just the current adventures of Diana Prince aka Wonder Woman, which can be read in Wonder Woman, Volume 1: The Lies, but he decides to let the audience in on the secret history of Diana's first journey into man's world. First though the Wonder Woman origin has had many interpretations through the years Rucka puts his own unique spin on the tale by building some connective tissue to the present mystery Diana is facing. I thought is was clever to use Diana's memory wipe of Paradise Island's location as a sacrifice she gives up to come and save our world. It really added some much needed weight to Wonder Woman's nobility. Next, I have to say Nicola Scott's illustration with Romulo Fajado Jr.'s coloring is a match made in heaven. This is probably one of the most beautiful comics series in the market. The details and emotion for each character is stunning. The colors just really pop and shimmer on the page. I loved Ares design in the story as well and the covers just simply amazing. I still thing that Greg Rucka could have easily just made this series its own title like how Batman is Detective Comics or Superman is Action Comics. This series would be great as the new Sensational Comics. I am really enjoying what Rucka is doing with the character and I am looking forward to the next volumes.
April 27, 2021
The best WW origin to read is here.
And what the trainwreck called WW84 could have been, as I see TOO MANY similarities...
And what the trainwreck called WW84 could have been, as I see TOO MANY similarities...
April 17, 2017
Basic Plot: The new story of how Wonder Woman rescued Steve Trevor, came to the United States, defeated Ares, and became Wonder Woman.
Now THAT's more like it. The art for half of the new Wonder Woman series is just gorgeous. Running two simultaneous/alternating storylines is all well and good as long as they both have the high quality the fans want. This one has far superior art to the more "current" timeline story.
The story itself is solid and includes all of the usual suspects: Steve Trevor, Etta Candy, and Dr. Minerva. There are a lot of fun moments as the various characters try to understand each other and introduce Diana to the modern world. Everyone seems to fit together nicely and the new interpretations of the characters really seem to work. I'm a happy fan.
Now THAT's more like it. The art for half of the new Wonder Woman series is just gorgeous. Running two simultaneous/alternating storylines is all well and good as long as they both have the high quality the fans want. This one has far superior art to the more "current" timeline story.
The story itself is solid and includes all of the usual suspects: Steve Trevor, Etta Candy, and Dr. Minerva. There are a lot of fun moments as the various characters try to understand each other and introduce Diana to the modern world. Everyone seems to fit together nicely and the new interpretations of the characters really seem to work. I'm a happy fan.
April 30, 2025
4.25
Fabulous artwork, a very engaging version of Diana
I will for sure be collecting this run now
Fabulous artwork, a very engaging version of Diana
I will for sure be collecting this run now
July 31, 2017
'Wonder Woman Vol. 2: Year One' by Greg Rucka with illustrations by Nicola Scott and Bilquis Everly collects even numbered issues 2-14 of the DC Rebirth series.
This story tells about the first year of Wonder Woman as Earth's protector, but before that, there is some backstory to take care of. We see Diana's early childhood on Themyscira and in alternating panels how her life and Steve Trevor's seemed to have some parallels. When Steve Trevor crashes on the island and is the only survivor of his plane, a decision has to be made to send someone. Diana is a bit of a fish out of water at first, but is a fast study. With Steve, Etta Candy and Dr. Minerva helping her out, she has found a solid team.
The book also includes a back up story about Dr. Minerva. There is a flashback to her childhood, then a search in the present for something involving the Amazons.
It's another origin type story, and it fits in a bit with the recent movie and other origins I've read. Did we need another origin for this character? There have been so many over the years, so why not. The art is good, and there is a cover gallery showing alternate covers for these issues.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
This story tells about the first year of Wonder Woman as Earth's protector, but before that, there is some backstory to take care of. We see Diana's early childhood on Themyscira and in alternating panels how her life and Steve Trevor's seemed to have some parallels. When Steve Trevor crashes on the island and is the only survivor of his plane, a decision has to be made to send someone. Diana is a bit of a fish out of water at first, but is a fast study. With Steve, Etta Candy and Dr. Minerva helping her out, she has found a solid team.
The book also includes a back up story about Dr. Minerva. There is a flashback to her childhood, then a search in the present for something involving the Amazons.
It's another origin type story, and it fits in a bit with the recent movie and other origins I've read. Did we need another origin for this character? There have been so many over the years, so why not. The art is good, and there is a cover gallery showing alternate covers for these issues.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
April 29, 2017
[Read as single issues]
Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott unite to tell the story of Wonder Woman's first year as a superhero. Starting with her life on Themyscira through to her exploration of the world with Steve Trevor, Etta Candy, and Barbara Ann Minerva, this is a great little book that sets up a lot of the background for the characters Diana is dealing with during the present day Lies/Truth storyline in the other issues of the series.
Diana's gentle exploration of the world and her relationships with everyone around her are key here, from her sisters on Themyscira to Barbara Ann - it's lovely to see how much she cares about people and how she can help them. Her rage in the last few issues as Poison makes its move and attacks innocent people feels so real because the foundation is well-built in the earlier issues.
And of course, Nicola Scott's artwork is absolutely gorgeous. She draws the most beautiful men and women, it's a crime. And Bilquis Evely steps in to draw a flashback issue for Barbara Ann which has a very vintage aesthetic that I love too.
Wonder Woman's a beautiful book, in both art and voice. I expect reading the series in trade actually improves it, and it was already really, really good.
Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott unite to tell the story of Wonder Woman's first year as a superhero. Starting with her life on Themyscira through to her exploration of the world with Steve Trevor, Etta Candy, and Barbara Ann Minerva, this is a great little book that sets up a lot of the background for the characters Diana is dealing with during the present day Lies/Truth storyline in the other issues of the series.
Diana's gentle exploration of the world and her relationships with everyone around her are key here, from her sisters on Themyscira to Barbara Ann - it's lovely to see how much she cares about people and how she can help them. Her rage in the last few issues as Poison makes its move and attacks innocent people feels so real because the foundation is well-built in the earlier issues.
And of course, Nicola Scott's artwork is absolutely gorgeous. She draws the most beautiful men and women, it's a crime. And Bilquis Evely steps in to draw a flashback issue for Barbara Ann which has a very vintage aesthetic that I love too.
Wonder Woman's a beautiful book, in both art and voice. I expect reading the series in trade actually improves it, and it was already really, really good.
February 11, 2021
4.5 stars
Woah, this was goooood!
I've been meaning to get into Wonder Woman comics for a while, and after some mediocre volumes from another series I finally found this.
"Year One" is actually the second volume in Rucka's series, but it tells us about Diana's background, how she met Steve and how she arrived in the human world in the first place. It was a great starting point.
The writing was good, the story interesting with a good mix of mythology, action and emotions, and the art was mostly amazing (and consistent!) too! I loved how colorful this volume was, and Diana looks as strong and badass as she's supposed to. Also, Diana is a bisexual, which I love, there's a hint at another lesbian romance, and the Amazons are all pretty af.
The final story in this is an interlude which tells us a story from Doctor Minerva's (who will eventually become Cheetah) past.
All in all a great volume that I'd definitely recommend to new readers like myself! Also, how beautiful is Themyscira?! How do I get there??
Woah, this was goooood!
I've been meaning to get into Wonder Woman comics for a while, and after some mediocre volumes from another series I finally found this.
"Year One" is actually the second volume in Rucka's series, but it tells us about Diana's background, how she met Steve and how she arrived in the human world in the first place. It was a great starting point.
The writing was good, the story interesting with a good mix of mythology, action and emotions, and the art was mostly amazing (and consistent!) too! I loved how colorful this volume was, and Diana looks as strong and badass as she's supposed to. Also, Diana is a bisexual, which I love, there's a hint at another lesbian romance, and the Amazons are all pretty af.
The final story in this is an interlude which tells us a story from Doctor Minerva's (who will eventually become Cheetah) past.
All in all a great volume that I'd definitely recommend to new readers like myself! Also, how beautiful is Themyscira?! How do I get there??
May 8, 2017
Did we really need yet another Wonder Woman origin story? No, of course not. Or maybe we did, because it seems Azzarello's work has been retconned away, so Diana actually doesn't have a post-Flashpoint origin story at this point. And yet it's basically exactly what you might expect it to be, so again not really needed. It's a good thing that it's a solid piece of work. I've always liked the way that Rucka writes Diana, and he does an especially good job with her younger self. The story is quite good, lack of originality aside, and I liked the injection of Barbara Minerva into Diana's early days in Man's World. I will say that I still entirely dislike the notion of alternating stories in the original issues. These were the even numbered issues, and the first collection were the odd issues. I would have absolutely hated that as a monthly reader. It seems oddly self-indulgent and even after reading both issues I have absolutely no idea what, if anything, it was meant to accomplish.
June 19, 2017
This is a beautiful retelling of the Wonder Woman origin. There were so many things that I liked about this. The first thing that it gets right is the relationships in Wonder Woman's life. The relationship with her mother comes across as much more loving than past origins, and her relationship with Steve is very sweet. Also, Barbara Ann Minerva plays a very important role in helping Wonder Woman become accustomed to life in America. As for the story, a major villain makes an bold entrance. Wonder Woman's fight against his minions in a terrorist attack on a mall gives this story relevance in our time, and it is inspiring to see her rush to the rescue of innocents. I really can't find anything to complain about.
October 9, 2017
I've heard it said that a talented musician can take an old or overdone song and breathe new life into it to make it seem fresh or exciting. I would agree, and say the same thing was done with WW's Vol. 2, which re-tells / re-interprets her origin story for the 21st century. (It should also briefly be noted that this book was an improvement over Vol. 1.) One thing that was particularly nice was the essential goodness that was readily apparent in the 'good guys' - not just our title character but Hippolyta, Steve, Etta, and even a minor character like the sympathetic police officer booking a confused WW when she first arrives in the U.S. This was simply one of the great books in DC's Rebirth series. Rock on, Rucka & crew . . .
June 19, 2017
I like Greg Rucka's writing, but we definitely didn't need another Wonder Woman origin story.
May 28, 2017
All hail Rucka, the only damn writer to actually understand Wonder Woman. This gets five stars simply because I haven't seen such a strong Wonder Woman story since Rucka was last on the series. Finally, this is a Diana to be proud of. This is a Diana that can be a role model. This is the Diana I have always wanted. (Now hopefully she stays amazing!)
I had some hesitations about the first volume of this semi-reboot, but I brushed them off as Rucka having to contend with a bunch of terrible plot issues that were foisted on him from previous runs. I am glad I trusted him as this volume shows that he truly loves and understands what it is that makes Wonder Woman special in the DC lineup.
Wonder Woman: Year One is yet another origin story for Wondy, but this one manages to stay true to the original themes and structures of her beginnings, yet still is fresh and interesting. For one, Rucka says screw trying to make the whole WWII thing work. If we are going to reboot these superheros every few years, why not make their stories relevant to today's audience? Steve Trevor crashes on Themiscrya in the 2010s, not decades prior. The wars and weapons that Wondy has to contend with are modern. The world she appears in to save is our world.
The Amazons have regained their compassion. While the sudden appearance of Trevor is upsetting, they do not react in fear or terror. A conference is called with the queen and certain leaders, and they discuss what to do. They determine that something strange is happening in man's world, and that the Gods are telling them to act. So they must chose a champion, and that champion ends up being, of course, Diana. She leaves with Trevor on the plane that the Amazons have fixed (and made invisible!) and Diana is introduced to the modern world.
As a character, Diana is kind, curious, and committed to doing good. Her primary purpose is to be an ambassador of her people, an aspect that I find only Rucka has ever really understood. She is a warrior. She will fight if needed, but she is dedicated to doing good, not just defeating evil. She's blessed by her Gods (a clever way of explaining where her powers come from), and she's here to take on Ares who seems to want to destroy everything as usual. I am pleased that Rucka still ties in Greek mythology as central to her plot.
Rucka also introduces some of the traditional cast from the Wonder Woman stories. Etta is still a military official, but she's black now. Minerva actually gets CHARACTER instead of simply starting out as a villain that no one really cares about.
All in all, this is probably the strongest origin story that Wonder Woman has received so far. It's easy to follow for new readers, contemporary, and sets this character and her cast up for exciting adventures! I wish the series could continue on from this point, though I admit to being curious as to what Rucka has in store for readers as we flash forward again.
I had some hesitations about the first volume of this semi-reboot, but I brushed them off as Rucka having to contend with a bunch of terrible plot issues that were foisted on him from previous runs. I am glad I trusted him as this volume shows that he truly loves and understands what it is that makes Wonder Woman special in the DC lineup.
Wonder Woman: Year One is yet another origin story for Wondy, but this one manages to stay true to the original themes and structures of her beginnings, yet still is fresh and interesting. For one, Rucka says screw trying to make the whole WWII thing work. If we are going to reboot these superheros every few years, why not make their stories relevant to today's audience? Steve Trevor crashes on Themiscrya in the 2010s, not decades prior. The wars and weapons that Wondy has to contend with are modern. The world she appears in to save is our world.
The Amazons have regained their compassion. While the sudden appearance of Trevor is upsetting, they do not react in fear or terror. A conference is called with the queen and certain leaders, and they discuss what to do. They determine that something strange is happening in man's world, and that the Gods are telling them to act. So they must chose a champion, and that champion ends up being, of course, Diana. She leaves with Trevor on the plane that the Amazons have fixed (and made invisible!) and Diana is introduced to the modern world.
As a character, Diana is kind, curious, and committed to doing good. Her primary purpose is to be an ambassador of her people, an aspect that I find only Rucka has ever really understood. She is a warrior. She will fight if needed, but she is dedicated to doing good, not just defeating evil. She's blessed by her Gods (a clever way of explaining where her powers come from), and she's here to take on Ares who seems to want to destroy everything as usual. I am pleased that Rucka still ties in Greek mythology as central to her plot.
Rucka also introduces some of the traditional cast from the Wonder Woman stories. Etta is still a military official, but she's black now. Minerva actually gets CHARACTER instead of simply starting out as a villain that no one really cares about.
All in all, this is probably the strongest origin story that Wonder Woman has received so far. It's easy to follow for new readers, contemporary, and sets this character and her cast up for exciting adventures! I wish the series could continue on from this point, though I admit to being curious as to what Rucka has in store for readers as we flash forward again.
May 12, 2017
Read this review and more on my blog, uncovered-books.
I received a free copy of Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One from DC Comics in exchange for my honest opinion.
The thing that I have noticed with comic book is that either the storyline is amazing, or the art work. Hardly ever do they manage to both be amazing. Unfortunately Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One suffered this as well.
Lets start with the good, the storyline. I have never read of Wonder Woman’s origin, so I found it very interesting to see how she decided to come to the human world and first interacted wiht us. Their is an overlying storyline about Sear, a terrorist organisation who’s motivations have been left unclear. Whilst this Sear group are a driving factor in how events occur, I found them to be secondary to seeing how Wonder Woman becomes Wonder Woman.
I have said it before and I will say it again, if you are unable to tell what a character is trying to say by just their face then you are doing something wrong. This is my main gripe with Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One. Majority of the art work was amazing, it showcased Themyscria beautifully; but once again the facial expression took me out of everything. Maybe I am just very fussy about this, but the facial expressions never seemed right. Not being an artist, I cannot say what it was that bothered me but this would have easily been a 5 star read if the facial expressions worked. I hope that they are fixed for the next volume.
A good storyline if you want to understand Wonder Woman’s origin story.
I received a free copy of Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One from DC Comics in exchange for my honest opinion.
The thing that I have noticed with comic book is that either the storyline is amazing, or the art work. Hardly ever do they manage to both be amazing. Unfortunately Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One suffered this as well.
Lets start with the good, the storyline. I have never read of Wonder Woman’s origin, so I found it very interesting to see how she decided to come to the human world and first interacted wiht us. Their is an overlying storyline about Sear, a terrorist organisation who’s motivations have been left unclear. Whilst this Sear group are a driving factor in how events occur, I found them to be secondary to seeing how Wonder Woman becomes Wonder Woman.
I have said it before and I will say it again, if you are unable to tell what a character is trying to say by just their face then you are doing something wrong. This is my main gripe with Wonder Woman Volume 2: Year One. Majority of the art work was amazing, it showcased Themyscria beautifully; but once again the facial expression took me out of everything. Maybe I am just very fussy about this, but the facial expressions never seemed right. Not being an artist, I cannot say what it was that bothered me but this would have easily been a 5 star read if the facial expressions worked. I hope that they are fixed for the next volume.
A good storyline if you want to understand Wonder Woman’s origin story.
June 5, 2017
So at the same time Greg Rucka is questioning the many variations on Wonder Woman's origins (in Volume 1), he's also rebuilding them in this Volume 2 (that was apparently published as the even number issues for the first year). And he does a GREAT job. Synthesizing most of the variations into one cohesive story, he manages to highlight everything that makes Wonder Woman memorable while even giving some of the secondary characters (Etta Candy and Barbara Ann Minerva, specifically) increase depth. He gets a couple strong action sequences (Diana and Steve resolving a terror attack), a lot of character work, and even manages to work the Invisible Jet in (in a semi-plausible manner). Other than a back-story issue about Minerva that doesn't quite work as well, this makes for a very strong collection and it's up there with the Sensation Comics series in great representations of Wonder Woman. Oh, and the art is lush and beautiful, with moments of foreboding interleaved well. Definitely recommended, and you don't need to read Volume 1 to appreciate it. It stands just as well on its own.
September 25, 2017
I didn’t want to like this book. No, I wanted to hate it because who needs ANOTHER origin story for this character? I thought, this has been done to death. I only got it because I wanted to have all the Rebirth collected editions to date and continue picking it up in trades as it is published. I read it though because I knew I wanted to do this week, so I went in very skeptically. I was like “this is going to be horrible” and I am shocked. It wasn’t horrible. It was better than I thought it would be. This is because Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott created just the right touches for this storyline. There are so many elements I can talk about, so lets start…
read the rest of my review on cassiewinters.com
read the rest of my review on cassiewinters.com
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