Parents' Guide to

Shadow of the Batgirl

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Teen assassin atones in sensitive tale of redemption.

Book Sarah Kuhn Graphic Novel 2020
Shadow of the Batgirl Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

As SHADOW OF THE BATGIRL begins, young teen Cassandra Cain is living on the streets, trying to escape the clutches of her villainous father. She makes friends with a restaurant owner, a librarian, and a high school student, but she's skittish about human contact. She's afraid of unleashing the violence within herself and killing someone. While her father closes in on the people she cares about, Cassandra waits for the costumed hero Batgirl to return to Gotham after years away. But what if Cassandra has to break her vow and save her friends herself?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Some superheroes have a hidden softer side, and this tenderhearted origin story values character growth above martial arts fistfights. In Shadow of the Batgirl, Cassandra may seem waif-like, but writer Sarah Kuhn and illustrator Nicole Goux imbue her with an iron will, so that she struggles never to resort to the kind of violence her father trained her to wield. Goux's art is expressive and clear in its storytelling. The narrative is more contemplative than action-packed, which may appeal to readers weary of superhero slugfests. Filled with strong female characters -- some of Asian descent -- the book offers an intriguing alternative to the usual male-dominated comics story.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Shadow of the Batgirl uses the conventions of superhero stories to tell its story of teen self-discovery. Why are superheroes so popular in various media? What do they offer readers that other genres do not?

  • Cassandra expects other people to treat her badly. How can teens feel more positive about themselves and the people around them? What causes someone to be mistrustful?

  • What does it mean to be a hero? Are there different types?

Book Details

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