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Nubia: Real One

2021 DC Comics graphic novel From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Nubia: Real One is a 2021 young adult graphic novel written by L.L. McKinney and illustrated by Robyn Smith. It centers on Nubia, Wonder Woman's twin sister. The book is a coming-of-age story that follows Nubia's attempts to keep her friends safe while keeping her superhuman abilities a secret. Nubia: Real One was released on February 23, 2021.

DateFebruary 23, 2021
Main charactersNubia Johnson
PublisherDC Comics
Quick facts Date, Main characters ...
Nubia: Real One
Nubia sits outside a white house wearing a Wonder Woman logo t-shirt and has long natural hair. She wears gray pants and has polka dot fingernail polish.
DateFebruary 23, 2021
Main charactersNubia Johnson
PublisherDC Comics
Creative team
WritersL.L. McKinney
ArtistsRobyn Smith
ColoristBrie Henderson
Original publication
Published inWonder Woman
Date of publication2021
LanguageEnglish
ISBN1401296408
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Plot

The story follows 17-year-old Nubia Johnson, who tries to conceal her superhuman strength and speed.[1] Nubia is put to the test when she attempts to keep her friend safe.[2]

Background

McKinney pitched the idea for a graphic novel to DC Comics, as she was a fan of the character Nubia from childhood.[3] Nubia is Wonder Woman's twin sister and DC's first black woman superhero. She has made scant appearances in Wonder Woman comics since her 1973 introduction and "did not get the widespread recognition as Wonder Woman but many diehard comic fans of color love her".[3][4]

The book was written and produced by three Black women: writer L.L. McKinney, illustrator Robyn Smith (who is Afro-Caribbean),[4] and colorist Brie Henderson. McKinney said of the significance of centering a story about a black woman and described her depiction of Nubia as "strong, powerful, vulnerable, provided for, and most importantly, loved".[5]

Publication history

The book was released by DC Comics on February 23, 2021.[3]

A sequel, titled Nubia: Too Real, was released on September 2, 2025.[6]

Critical reception

In a starred review, Publishers Weekly wrote: "Nubia's humorous awkwardness will resonate as readers marvel at her strength and sense of duty in a world that fails to protect her".[1] Nubia: Real One also received positive reviews from Common Sense Media,[7] NPR,[8] and School Library Journal.[9]

Awards and nominations

References

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