Very few comics can claim to be part of a larger movement that features activism and fundraising initiatives for non-profits. Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez‘s The Borinquenian is one such comic. Its titular hero promotes discussions about the Puerto Rican diaspora and the many forms of justice that can still be pursued for communities that have historically struggled to keep their identities and their traditions alive.
Miranda-Rodríguez made sure his comic book character could function as a spokesperson for these causes since the publication of the first issue in 2016. Now, The Borinquenian‘s entire first story arc is getting collected in a deluxe hardcover edition that’s the perfect starting point for new fans while being a great collector’s item for those who’ve been along for the ride since the beginning.
The Borinquenian Volume 1 features original cover artwork by Ariel Jesus Colon and interior art by Will Rosado (G.I. Joe) and Christopher Sotomayor (Avengers). For those who are coming into the story for the first time, The Borinquenian follows the titular hero as she faces a series of threats that represent some of the many ills that have plagued Hispanic and immigrant communities in the US and, more specifically, in the island of Puerto Rico.
La Borinqueña finds her identity is her superpower. It’s apparent from the second you look at her de ella suit and cape de ella, bathed in the colors of the Puerto Rican flag. Taking a page from the Captain America playbook, La Borinqueña’s physical presence always lets people know that a powerful Puerto Rican is currently keeping an eye out for justice and truth.
A portion of the book’s sales will go to Miranda-Rodríguez’s continued charity work, which has already raised and awarded $200,000 to different local organizations in Puerto Rico. This alone is a testament to the character’s influence outside the pages of the comic book, with Ricanstruction: Reminiscing & Rebuilding Puerto Rico as one of the most impressive examples of this. The book was done in collaboration with some of the comics industry’s most notable names with the express purpose of raising funds for the recovery process that came after Hurricane María hit the island of Puerto Rico in 2017.
With his eyes constantly set on growth and expansion, Miranda-Rodríguez also announced the upcoming release of four 1:12 scale figures from The Borinquenian universe. The set includes La Borinqueña, Luz, Oro El Coquí Dorado, and La Gárgola. They will be produced by Boss Fight Studios.
The hardcover and the action figures will be available for retailers to pre-order this September for a holiday season release (TBD).
To read The Borinquenian is to become part of a movement. The new hardcover will provide new readers the opportunity to do just that.
Below you’ll find images for the action figure set.
