Robin #142 – Vol. 2 – 2005 marks a pivotal moment in Tim Drake’s journey, as he returns to the mantle of Robin following the dramatic and ultimately tragic tenure of Stephanie Brown. Written by Bill Willingham and featuring art by Scott McDaniel, this issue signals a shift in tone — one that blends emotional reckoning, renewed purpose, and the cold, calculated mindset of a Robin who’s no longer just learning, but surviving.
In the aftermath of Stephanie’s death and Gotham’s growing instability, Tim is back — but not unchanged. Robin #142 explores a darker, more determined version of Tim, grappling with guilt, grief, and the pressure to step up in ways he hadn't before. There’s a sense of urgency to his return, not just to reclaim the role, but to do it better — sharper, more precise, less vulnerable.
Willingham’s script leans into these themes with quiet strength. Tim’s internal dialogue is reflective and weighted, showing a boy forced to grow up too quickly. His interactions — whether with Batman, allies, or enemies — are more controlled, more strategic. He’s no longer reacting to the world; he’s adapting to dominate it. The emotional undercurrent is strong, especially in how Stephanie’s legacy lingers throughout the issue, haunting Tim’s choices without derailing his focus.
Scott McDaniel’s artwork gives this chapter a raw, kinetic energy. His bold lines and sharp angles mirror Tim’s intensified resolve. The fight scenes are punchy and fast, while the shadows and framing of Gotham’s architecture underline the sense of tension and isolation. Visually, it feels like a city that never rests — and a hero who’s learned that rest is a luxury.
Robin #142 is essential reading for anyone invested in Tim Drake’s evolution. It’s a return to form, but not a reset. It’s a step forward, tempered by loss and reshaped by hard-earned experience. Whether you’re following the continuity of the Bat-family or exploring key turning points in Tim’s character arc, this issue delivers with both narrative weight and dynamic storytelling.
Available now at ComicBookXS.com, where swift UK dispatch and securely packaged shipping ensure your comic arrives in pristine condition — perfect for collectors of milestone issues and fans of Tim Drake’s defining moments.
Tags: Comicbook, Robin, 2005, DC, Ilsa von Hammer, Johnny Cloud, Tommy Tinker, Veteran, Demons, Dan DiDio, Scott McDaniel, Andy Owens, Guy Major, Bill Willingham, Phil Balsman, Michael Wright