Supergirl: Being Super was a solid graphic novel. Mariko Tamaki captured an emotional depth to Kara's adolescence and coming-of-age. The story explores the emotional ramifications of losing someone close to you and the guilt Kara carries for being unable, despite her powers, to save a friend. The story lingers on this loss and how it defines Kara's relationship to her powers and herself in really compelling ways. Seeing her grow and carve out an identity from this tragedy was touching.

However, while Kara was well rendered, I didn't connect as strongly to other elements of the story. I wish Kara's parents had been more robust characters. While they were a part of the story I never connected with them or fully understood or appreciated their relationship with Kara. I feel there was potential to explore more there that was never realized.

The external conflict of this story was also underwhelming. The discovery of another Kryptonian on earth and the subsequent chaos that ensued was rushed. The climax was so brief I assumed my copy of the book was missing pages. The lack of resolution on that front and the teaser ending leads me to believe this story may have been the start of a series that never came to pass. While I would be interested in reading more if there ever is any that potential doesn't make this installment any less clunky and jarring.

I did love the art of the story. Joelle Jones captured Kara's powers brilliantly. There was a power and exuberance to her flight I adored taking in especially in the larger trade paperback format.

Supergirl: Being Super was a solid read. Mariko Tamaki's character work was great but it did leave me wanting more. I'm glad to have read it and might look into more Supergirl stories in the future.