For anyone worried about what Robert Kirkman would be doing after The Walking Dead, fear no more!
Fire Power follows the story of orphaned Owen as he searches for answers to who his parents were. He has sought knowledge at temples around China before landing at the Temple of the Flaming Fist, where he meets master Wei Lun, an hysterical and wise old man who is trying to relearn the power of the Fire Fist. Wei Lun has answers for Owen, but must join the order and prove himself first. While there, Owen also meets Ling Zan, a sympathetic lady who shows kindness to Owen when none of the other disciples will. At the Temple, there are several mysteries, including a dragon who is guarded around the clock, and a Scorched Earth clan determined to free it. Owen must show his ultimate loyalty and prove himself worthy of Wei Lun’s trust. At the end of the novel, we flash forward 15 years, where the rest of the this story presumably will happen.
I got some definite Iron Fist and Doctor Strange vibes throughout Owen’s training at the Temple, and I really enjoyed the whole thing. Master Wei Lun is absolutely hilarious, and I actually laughed out loud several times through this volume. But, holy time jump, Batman! I was IN that story between Flaming Fist and Scorched Earth, so much so that I forgot to really come up for air. Then, we jump 15 years into the future and leave it on a crazy cliff hanger! I can’t wait for the next to come out so I can continue this crazy journey with Owen.
Samnee’s art is a cartoony style, and it is beautiful. The color palette is full of rich tones, and the scenery around the temple is stunning. Characters are extremely expressive, which adds to the hilarity at some moments and the heartbreak at others. Battle sequences are clear and easy to follow, and the attack sequences using special abilities are vivid.
Image rates this for Teen, and that is perfectly fitting. There is some mild language, and a bit of violence with some blood, but not a ton of gore. This story so far would be fine for middle school and high school audiences.
Fire Power Volume One: Prelude
By Robert Kirkman
Art by Chris Samnee
ISBN: 9781534316553
Image Comics, 2020
Publisher Age Rating: Teen (13+)
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NFNT Age Recommendation: Tween (10-13), Teen (13-16), Older Teen (16-18)
