Hey, everyone! We’re back once again for another installment of Quintessential Comics. In honor of the overwhelming success of Marvel’s Black Panther film, we are going to take a look at five of T’Challa’s best appearances in his own graphic novel. Let’s get right into it, as we don’t want to keep the King of Wakanda waiting.
“Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet”
Starting us off is a story by Ta-Nehisi Coates in which T’Challa must deal with a terrorist organization called “The People.” As Wakanda finds itself under attack, Black Panther must discover who is truly behind the suicide bombings that are throwing his home into chaos. Struggling to maintain order and unity, T’Challa’s mettle is truly tested in this installment. How can a King be respected if he can’t protect his people? Be sure to check this one out for your fill of familiar foes, difficult choices, and epic altercations.
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Black Panther: World of Wakanda”
Next up we have a graphic novel focusing on the women of Wakanda that comes to us from the mind of Roxane Gay. Known as the Dora Milaje, and later the Midnight Angels, Ayo and Aneka are two young women assigned to an elite task force whose duty is to protect the royal family of Wakanda. Journey alongside these two fierce warriors as they take on their first assignment: protecting Queen Shuri. Be sure to stick around for a look into the mysterious past of Zenzi, the enigmatic leader of “The People”.
“Black Panther & the Crew”
This is a great addition, as it features other prominent black heroes from Marvel titles. Additionally, it doesn’t shy away from the real issues of today. After a Harlem activist is murdered, Black Panther must band together with Luke Cage, Storm, Misty Knight, and Manifold in order to solve a mystery that could prove to shake the foundations of the Marvel universe. Ready to take on the difficult themes of fear, hate, and violence, this one won’t disappoint. If you’re looking for street-level threats and a classic Marvel team-up, you’ve hit the jack pot.
“Black Panther, the Most Dangerous Man Alive!”
Can you imagine anything cooler than Black Panther filling in for Daredevil as the protector of Hell’s Kitchen? Well, I can’t, and so I’ve added this one to the list. T’Challa’s stand in for Matt Murdock isn’t going so smoothly, however. With someone taking innocent lives in the Kitchen, Black Panther must act fast before time runs out and another victim is chosen. If you’re interested in seeing T’Challa in a new setting accompanied by a race against the clock, don’t pass this one up.
“Black Panther, the Man Without Fear”
Part of the Fear Itself run, this entry is rife with excitement and conflict. Once again we find Black Panther defending Hell’s Kitchen. This time, however, he’s pit against Kraven the Hunter, Hate Monger, and Lady Bullseye. Each is trying to remove him from the picture in an attempt to rule the city, and all serve as distractions from the threat looming: American Panther. IGN claimed that David Liss‘ take on Black Panther was “just what the character needed.” Can T’Challa fend off these three villains while simultaneously defending his mantle from American Panther? Pick this one up to find out.
For even more Black Panther awesomeness, be sure to check out his ultimate guide as well as the amazing soundtrack to the film! And, remember, Wakanda forever!
