posted November 12, 2007 09:46 PM              

New Comics Feature Islamic Superheroes

NEW YORK, NY -- There's a new comic series out that not only exposes readers to multicultural heroes, but even more interesting, the whole series is based on Islamic theology.

You know Spiderman and Superman and Batman. Now, meet Jabal, Nura, Dahl, Munita, and Jamah."

These superheroes are all part of "The 99", a comic book based on Muslim principals and the 99 traits of Allah.

Creator Naif Al-Mutawa said, "Kids in the Islamic world have a lot of historical figures that one can depend on, but modern day role models or modern day heroes are lacking."

So Al-Mutawa started the Tashkeel Comic Company in order to tell stories that reflect his view of his own Islamic religion.

"Just like, you know, the same people who go back to the Quran, and pull out messages that aren't as friendly, I’ve gone back to the same source and pulled out stuff that's very friendly," said Al-Mutawa.

Intended for an audience of Muslims and non-Muslims alike, "The 99" is a group of superheroes, each representing another aspect of Allah, including generosity,

"Strength, wisdom, foresight, mercy. And these are values, these are basic human values, whether you're not, you believe in Islam, whether or not you believe in religion," said Al-Mutawa.

Because Mutawa's message is one of global solidarity, each of the 99 is from a different country, ranging from the United Arab Emirates to the United States.

In order to conquer evil they have to work together.

No one hero, like no one culture, can succeed alone.

Ameena Meer says it's refreshing that her 14-year-old daughter can learn about their religion in a positive light.

"I liked the idea that, that it firsts talks about Arab culture, because I think that that's being so demonized in this country at the moment," said Meer.

"What do you think Sasha? Do you think there's place for a Muslim superhero?” asked her mom.

"uUm, yeah I mean like, they uh they're just like everyone else. How different can they be than other superheroes?" said daughter Sasha.

While “The 99” is based on Islamic values and principles, religion isn't mentioned anywhere in the story.

It's not until you turn to the very last page that the publisher ties in what happens in the story to Islam.

"And if all we get by the end of it is somebody who reads a good story, and doesn't read the notes, that's fine. Because 99% of it is about the good story," said creator Al-Mutawa.

And that's what sells comic books, according to Vito Delsante, manager of Jim Henley's Universe in New York City.

"Yeah it's definitely interesting. I definitely wanna read more of it," said Delsante.

And he doesn't mind if he, or his customers, learn something along the way.

"Comic books are a great place for teaching, are you kidding me? Yeah I if it weren't, you know, like I probably would know how to read right now!" said Delsante

“The 99” hit stands last month, and is available in English, Arabic and Indonesian, in 25 countries around the world. source

posted November 14, 2007 05:33 PM              

It'll be interesting to see how this does sales-wise.

posted November 14, 2007 08:09 PM              

Thank you!

I just ordered a copy for myself.
(Or, was it for the kids, LOL!)

Anyways, I'm really looking forward to checking it out.

I don't recall ever really being into comic books but this one kinda intrigues me...