I do not know if I would have so eagerly have volunteered to read this book if I was aware of how many triggering elements were within it. Seeing Selina’s cat abused and then killed was incredibly difficult especially considering I just adopted another rescue cat and both of my animals have been abused prior to being in my care. While most DC Comics are known for being dark and dealing with heavier themes, this book delves more in detail to each character, particularly Selina’s connection to these upsetting themes and moments. However, this graphic novel has some very mature and triggering themes including but not limited to bullying, gay slurs (although brief), domestic violence, self-harm/cutting, animal abuse, child abuse, child endangerment, suicide, and sexual harassment. Offering readers a glimpse into everything from her upbringing to how she honed her parkour skills as well as the people she met along the way. Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale offers a take on Selina Kyle’s origin and how she got into the thieving business. The gives her the courage to confront Bruce, finding out why their friendship fell apart but when Dernell finds the cat and hurts the poor animal, Selina has finally had enough and runs deciding she would rather be homeless on the streets of Gotham than in an abusive household. Selina then finds a stray cat and takes her in. Though despite knowing each other for years Bruce and Selina have grown apart. School life isn’t much better but Selina keeps sane with two best friends and, of course, Bruce Wayne. Selina’s home life is rough as her mother is routinely bringing home different problematic and often abusive boyfriends. The graphic novel follows a 15-year-old Selina Kyle long before her days prowling Gotham’s rooftops as Catwoman.

The graphic novel is written by Lauren Myracle ( ttyl), with art by Isaac Goodhart, colors by Jeremy Lawson, and letters by Deron Bennett. Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale is published by DC Comics under the DC Ink imprint.

Under the moon catwoman tale