In Review: Wonder Woman #23 – Only Mouseman knows!

Synopsis: After the thrilling conclusion of Diana’s battle with the Sovereign, she discovers that the fight for peace has only just begun. The rogue Amazon, Emilie, has fled to a mysterious island overrun by mice—and ruled by a tyrant most foul. Can Wonder Woman save her fallen sister and her baby before they fall into the wrong hands? Only Mouseman knows!

The Story

When Wonder Woman receives word that her fallen Amazon sister and her daughter are in danger, she prepares to launch a rescue mission. But before she can act, she must navigate diplomatic channels—knowing full well that she’ll never get the Justice League’s blessing.

Meanwhile, on a mysterious island ruled by Mouseman and a horde of giant, meat-eating mice, the local population seems entranced—repeating a strange mantra:

“Mouseman knows! Mouseman knows! Mice have ears—Mouseman knows!”

But what exactly do they know?

Artwork

Daniel Sampere delivers some solid artwork in this issue. I especially loved the opening panel on the comic’s title page, where we see a giant mouse pulling a school bus—a surreal, striking image that immediately sets the tone. On that same page, we’re dropped into a conversation between Wonder Woman and Mister Terrific, who makes it clear the Justice League won’t support her attempt to rescue her sister and niece from the island. It’s a smart bit of storytelling: no wasted space, just straight into the drama.

The scenes set on the island are especially strong. We experience this strange world through the eyes of a young girl, woken by an alarm clock repeating a chilling mantra:
“Mouseman knows. Mouseman knows. Mice have ears—Mouseman knows.”
It’s spooky stuff, and the island’s look—visually decayed and steeped in post-apocalyptic grime—adds to the tension. I particularly loved the graffiti symbols of the mouse and the ears. After all, mice have ears… and Mouseman knows.

Overall

This is a strong opening for the new story arc, which really kicked off last month with Mouseman’s attack on the Capitol Building in DC. While it seemed like Wonder Woman had dealt with the problem, I had a feeling there was more to come—and, as it turns out, I was right.

Now, about the mantra: “Mouseman knows, Mouseman knows, mice have ears, Mouseman knows.” It’s a bit repetitive, and honestly, it got on my nerves more than a little. But hey, that’s also part of its charm—it’s creepy as hell, and I suspect that’s exactly what the creators intended. So, credit where credit’s due.

Still, here’s hoping for a bit more actual dialogue next issue—unless, of course, we’re supposed to be consulting Mouseman again!