Writer – Mark Verheiden
Artist – Luke McDonnell
Colours – Anthony Tollin
Letters – Bob Pinaha

Racism is an ugly thing and when it strikes Diana Palmer’s hometown, she finds it both surprising and appalling. When things get out of hand with some of the locals targeting her friend Bobby, who just so happens to be black, there is nothing she can think of to do except call on Kit Walker, the man now known as The Phantom. The last book left off with one of them about to hang at the end of a rope and when the hillbillies make their move, that is when The Phantom is spurred into action. Written by Mark Verheiden and drawn once more by Luke McDonnell, they tackle a sensitive subject that is just as relevant today as it was during this issue’s publication and for many years previous to it. Being a superhero comic book, they do so just as readers might guest with The Phantom taking the fight to the men who would persecute those for the colour of their skin. Along the way, there is also a little ruminating on the subject, which makes for a truly good read. At first, it looks as if The Phantom is going to win until Diana is taken hostage and Bobby is shot. Getting help for Bobby is the priority but it is not long before The Phantom is on the hunt and those who think they can outwit The Ghost Who Walks obviously do not know much about him. Soon enough, the villains are routed and one cannot help but be happy that the book ends on a happy, if solemn note. For those looking for action, there is a fair bit to be had and McDonnell makes it exciting and packed with energy. While the bad guys are not the usual fair to be found in the jungle they are just as deserving to be on the receiving end of The Phantom’s justice as anyone else. Also in this book is the longstanding storyline of Diana and Kit’s relationship, what little there is of one. It seems like the two have been in love for quite some time but the duties of The Phantom and what that means have kept them apart. There is nothing that Kit can really do about it but Diana says she is a big girl and she can make her own decisions meaning that it looks like the two are going to be a couple. How that is going to work and what shape it takes is for another issue to chronicle but it will provide at least a bit of fodder for readers to soak in as the book moves forward. A very solid, very entertaining issue from start to finish.

4.5 out of 5