Captain America: Reborn #2 (of 5)

Back when Captain America died, my biggest concern (like most every other comic book reader) was: when they bring Steve Rogers back, will the story be worthy of the idea of killing an icon?

Because let's face it, death is cheap in comics. It would probably be easier to list the heroes who haven't died and been brought back, instead of the ones who have "died."

So now we're two issues into Cap being Reborn, and thankfully, Brubaker's story is powerful enough to warrant special attention. It doubles as an exciting adventure story and an examination of who Captain America is and what makes him unique among heroes.

The story elements Brubaker put in place years ago are finally coming into focus, and the story is developing on several fronts.

We have Steve Rogers "jumping" into different moments during his life, and immediately sizing up the situation and working on a plan. The new Cap (Bucky) and the Black Widow find themselves facing overwhelming odds, as the depth of their problem is revealed. And the mystery around Sharon Carter and her connection to Cap's disappearance continues to grow.

Add to that the incredible art by Bryan Hitch and Butch Guice, and you end up with one of the best comics on the stands.

The toughest part is having to wait a month to see the next chapter!

Grade: A