Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is the real deal. Ms. Marvel earned its hype by delivering a superhero origin story that feels genuinely fresh—not because it's trying too hard, but because Kamala Khan is just a great character. She's funny, flawed, and figuring things out as she goes.

G. Willow Wilson nails the balance between superhero spectacle and grounded teen drama. You get shapeshifting action and Inhuman mysteries, but also family dinners, mosque youth groups, and the very relatable feeling of disappointing your parents. The Muslim representation is natural and specific, which makes it feel real rather than tokenized.

The art by Adrian Alphona is a huge part of what makes this work—it's got personality and energy, with panels that reflect Kamala's inner life. This isn't just a good comic for representation points; it's a legitimately fun, well-crafted superhero story that happens to star someone we haven't seen enough of in comics. If your kid is into Marvel or just looking for a hero they can relate to, this is an easy recommendation.

Age Fit

Best for ages 9-16, though the themes of identity and belonging resonate well into adulthood. Younger readers who love superheroes will enjoy the action, while teens will connect deeply with Kamala's struggles to define herself.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

Kamala Khan is a relatable, grounded teenager navigating identity, family expectations, and newfound powers with humor and heart. The series models positive values—kindness, responsibility, cultural pride—without being preachy. G. Willow Wilson brings authentic Muslim representation and Jersey City diversity to the Marvel Universe. The tone is warm and age-appropriate, balancing teen angst with optimism.

Imaginative

86

The concept of an ordinary Pakistani-American teen becoming a shapeshifting Inhuman superhero is fresh and inventive. Adrian Alphona's art style is distinctive and expressive, mixing realism with stylized panels that reflect Kamala's inner world. The series invites readers to think about identity, legacy, and what it means to be a hero in a modern, multicultural context.

Safe

90

This is standard Marvel superhero action—some combat and peril, but no gore, sexual content, or graphic violence. The conflicts are appropriate for middle-grade and teen readers. Common Sense Media parent reviews suggest it's fine for ages 10+, with some noting it's suitable even younger. No surprise trauma or dark twists that would catch parents off-guard.

Enriching

91

Ms. Marvel broke ground as Marvel's first Muslim superhero to headline her own series, offering representation that was long overdue. Kamala's story tackles identity, cultural expectations, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience with nuance and humor. It's both entertaining and meaningful—readers get a fun superhero origin story plus insight into a perspective rarely centered in mainstream comics. School Library Journal praised it for living up to its hype.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Kamala Khan is instantly likeable: nerdy, funny, and dealing with real teen stuff (family expectations, fitting in, crushes) alongside superhero drama
Authentic cultural representation that doesn't feel like a lecture—just a normal Pakistani-American family living their lives
Adrian Alphona's art is expressive and dynamic, making Kamala's shapeshifting powers visually creative and fun
Balances humor with heart—Kamala's voice is witty and self-aware without being annoying
Shows what it means to be a hero in your own community, not just fighting cosmic threats

⚠

What to Watch For

Standard superhero violence—punching, energy blasts, peril—but nothing graphic or traumatic
Kamala deals with family pressure and cultural expectations, which could spark good conversations about identity
Some readers might need context about the Inhumans and the broader Marvel Universe, though the story works fine standalone

Conversation Starters

"Kamala feels pressure to be perfect for her family and her community. Do you ever feel that way? How do you handle it?"
"What would you do if you suddenly got superpowers? Would you tell anyone or keep it secret?"
"Kamala struggles with wanting to fit in while also staying true to herself. When have you felt that tension?"
"What does being a hero mean to you? Does it have to be about big dramatic saves, or can it be smaller things?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic