The fifth issue of The Black Panther comic book series has been recently released, and it is still as great as the initial four! As an admitted Ta-Nehisi Coates fan, I can acknowledge that I was a bit skeptical of how his writing would transfer to a comic strip, but all along I have been pleasantly surprised. Not only is the writing consistently phenomenal, but the artwork is also spectacular. What makes The Black Panther such a quality comic strip is a combination of writing, imagery and content.

In the first book, I was pleasantly surprised by the seamless inclusion of the love, partnership and sacrifice of two dynamic and brave warrior womyn (women). Not only is the willingness of the womon (woman) to sacrifice herself for her beloved thought provoking, but so is the way in which the Queen makes the definite decision, with an unwavering hardline, to execute the beloved. Though I disagree with her decision, it was her unbiased judgment in making it that was truly inspirational. It is this evidence of sacrifice, devotion, loyalty, love, and commitment that are not only present in this issue, but throughout.

With the second book, I became immediately invested in Coates’ ability to cover power in its many forms; From the overt and covert power of the king, to the power, the mysteries and the resilience of the people/community. Which is a lesson that many rulers learn during their reign. Usually from a coup and being dethroned by the people. One example is Haile Selassie; who it could easily be argued the series is modeled after.

It is my desire to express the greatness of this writing without giving too much away, but it proves to be somewhat of a challenge. There are moments when the writing simply tugs at the mental processes and forces one to reflect upon it. For instance, when I read, “That a thing is unreal does not make it untrue,” I had to pause and really reflect on the many different levels and ways that could have meaning.

The ability to understand that our truth is only one truth, and to conceptualize the full picture we must be able to see beyond ourselves. I kid you not…this piece of work is quite epic.

I want to share more, I really do, but why should I be a spoiler when you can read it for yourself?

Let me know your thoughts; I know you’re going to love it as much as I do!

As always, love and hug more!

-Ms. Malcolm Hughes

Ms. Malcolm Hughes is the editor-in-chief of For Your Black? Conscious. She is a Chicago, IL native–from the city, not the suburbs–strategizing in Washington, D.C. She strives every day to not disappoint or defer the dreams of her 13 year old self. Because at that age, more than any other, she just wanted to see her people win. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter @fybconscious.