Jenny Sparks # 1 2024 NM-

Jenny Sparks # 1, released on August 21, 2024, is the debut of a seven-issue DC Black Label miniseries. Written by Tom King with art by Jeff Spokes, the series reintroduces the cynical "Spirit of the 20th Century" into the modern DC Universe to serve as "internal affairs" for superheroes who step out of line. 

"Be Better" 

The story centers on a global crisis caused by Captain Atom, who has gone rogue after suffering a mental breakdown. He has taken hostages in a bar and declared himself a god, possessing power that outclasses even the Justice League. 

• The Recruitment: Batman visits a jaded, chain-smoking Jenny Sparks in her apartment to recruit her for the mission. He acknowledges that the standard heroes cannot handle Captain Atom's current power level and mental state.
• The Confrontation: Jenny travels to Los Angeles to confront Atom. The issue features long philosophical monologues between the two. Jenny lectures him on the limitations of heroes and her own long history, including being the goddaughter of Albert Einstein.
• The Twist: During their battle, Jenny unloads a massive amount of lightning into Captain Atom, but he remains standing. In a shocking finale, he grabs Jenny by the neck, snaps it, and walks away, stating she no longer has the "authority" to stop him.
• Mundane Perspectives: Parallel to the action, the issue follows the daily lives of four seemingly unconnected strangers in L.A.—a psychiatrist, a judge, a university lecturer, and a PR professional—whose fates are intertwined with the larger conflict. 
• New Origin: In this continuity, Jenny was resurrected on September 11, 2001, because the problems of the 20th century failed to end as promised.
• Creative Team: Written by Tom King, with art by Jeff Spokes and lettering by Clayton Cowles.