Omni vol 1 by Devin Grayson

Vol 1: The Doctor is In, illustrated by Alitha Martinez

Doctor Cecilia is a gifted surgeon working for "Doctors Without Borders" when she discovers she may be the future of human evolution. It's a phenomenon she calls "Ignited." Humans placed under extreme stress or afraid for their lives manifest super-human abilities.  For Dr. Cece, it so happens that she thinks and can project herself into the nine different learning modalities to solve any problem she's put in.  But, she's not the only one.  With Ignited sprouting up all across a volatile U.S and world landscape, how can they come together to put their powers to good use, and what does this mean for the evolution of the un-ignited humans?

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This may be another in a long-line of superhero comics, but Grayson's approach to super-human powers is unique and intriguing.  There are only a few ignited so far who have powers similar to other comic book characters, but definitely Cece's 9 modalities is new and different.  Cece often talks amongst herselves, and the dialogue provides a fascinating look at the different way people can approach a solution.  Grayson also makes use of real and stressful situations, like the detention facilities on the U.S./Mexico Border, instead of drumming up his own fictitious situations that may ring hollow in comparison to the real world today. There's a nice cliffhanger ending here to keep readers going as well.  Martinez' illustrations make use of a bright color palette to denote each of Cece's modalities, but the world itself is shaded with natural colors and makes use of a typical, solid comicbook style. 

Humanoids does not have age ratings for their material.  There is some mild violence with a very small amount of blood, and that's about it.  A knowledge of current events would help readers understand events of the book and connect with characters.  

Sara's Rating: 8/10
Suitability Level: Grades 7-12

This review was made possible with an advanced reader copy from the publisher through Net Galley.  This graphic novel will be on sale September 1, 2020.​

Tags: Rating: 8/10, Suitability: Middle School, Suitability: High School, Comicbooks, Superheroes