Review: Faith #1

Issues: 1 (of 4)

Writer: Jody Houser

Artists: Francis Portela & Marguerite Sauvage

I first heard about the new Valiant series Faith, from my favorite comic book website, panels.net. Before reading the first issue, I didn't know very much about Faith's background as a character, but I did know she is what some might refer to as "plus size". I saw the art for the two Issue #1 covers, and was very excited to support this series! As a feminist, body diversity in comics (and all forms of media) is very important to me, and so I added Faith Issue #1 to my pull list.

While I choose to buy Faith based on support for the character's body type, I will be sticking with the series because of the fun character, great writing, and fantastic art. Faith, aka Zephyr, is a funny, awesomely nerdy, brave, kick ass woman & superheroine. What's not to love about that? Her everyday work disguise is so "adorkable"...God I hate that term! I take it back, her office disguise is just plain fun and adds to her lovable nerdiness. 

I have read some great pieces on this series and it warms my heart to see so many people respond to/relate to her body type! Faith does not have the usual unrealistic "Barbie" superheroine body. Instead, she is drawn the way many real world women look. The best part is, her weight/body type is a complete non-issue in her story. Her weight does not affect her superpowers or butt kicking skills (why would it?). In fact, it's not even discussed at all. Yep that's right, no self deprecating fat jokes etc. Faith doesn't cover up her body or only wear clothes meant to minimize her "flaws" (aka NOT flaws). Faith just exists as a normal human being, because newsflash, she is one! Well I guess that's not completely accurate, she does, after all have super powers, but you get my point. 

Faith is an excellent beginning, to what I hope is, a new trend for greater body diversity in comics! Three cheers for body positivity! Now go look in a mirror and tell yourself how Goddamn beautiful you are!