A comiXologist Recommends:
Hanni Brosh recommends Steven Universe #1

They… ARE the Crystal Gems!

They being the stoic Garnet, sassy Amethyst, fretful Pearl, and Steven, our young hero with a golden heart and a gemstone belly button. Steven Universe, created by rebeccasugar, is the latest animated series to make the jump to the comic page, joining Adventure Time and Bee and Puppycat in BOOM’s impressive cartoon lineup. 

Steven balances being a magical Crystal Gem and a regular human boy - a protector of the universe who is still a fun-loving, energetic kid. While his fellow Gems are neutralizing unsavory creatures, Steven keeps their spirits up with his optimistic attitude (and some wacky yesteryear sunglasses). Writer jeremysorese and artist colemanengle make up the main story team and their debut issue is a hit; Sorese captures small character moments among the chaos of battle (notably Amethyst and Pearl’s bickering), while Engle’s bold brushwork and bright colors bring a gaseous rainbow beast to life and send it whizzing through magnificent temple ruins. Three back-up stories round out the issue - an adventure with some side characters, a hot dog recipe, and a charming attempt at birthday cake baking.

Steven Universe is a delight for readers of all ages - rich in creative locales, thoughtfully realized characters, and a good dose of magically-charged brawling. The first issue sets a high mark for the ongoing series, making “Steven” a comic you can believe in!

[Pick up Steven Universe #1 here!]

For fans of: comedy, action

Hanni Brosh is a digital editor at comiXology. She draws comics and has a really cute dog.