Broken Frontier

The next generation of heroes are here!

Teshkeel Media Group, KSC announced today the launch of their popular superhero characters, The 99 in an ongoing, monthly series. The first issue went on sale today throughout the MENA region. The magazine will feature the continuing adventures of The 99, superheroes from 99 different countries who receive their powers from gemstones that contain the knowledge of the Dar Al-Hikma, the legendary ancient Islamic library.

Created by award winning author Dr Naif Al-Mutawa, the series is the world’s first superhero project based on Islamic culture and history. The central messages of the series include the value of teamwork and importance of tolerance. With its diverse cast of characters from multiple cultural and ethnic backgrounds, Al-Mutawa intends the series to be his gift to the children around the world. The 99 characters were launched in an “Origins Special” magazine earlier this year and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Parents are delighted to see positive role models for their children,” noted Al-Mutawa, “But, more importantly, kids love seeing characters that share their culture and their experiences. Heroes who come from the same places they do and deal with the same problems they face in their own lives.”

The UAE is the latest country to have a superhero to call their own, as Dana Ibrahim, a young Emirati who will be transformed into Noora the light, makes her debut in this month’s issue. Characters from the US, Portugal, Britain, Pakistan, and Indonesia will follow shortly. “After that, our next characters will probably come from Egypt and Jordan,” noted Al-Mutawa, “But it’s only a matter of time until most of the countries of the world are represented.” The launch of a monthly magazine is only the latest step in the development of the “99” concept. Future plans call for the creation of animation, mobile content, videogames, apparel and more. In addition, Teshkeel Media Group (publishers of THE 99) is in discussions to publish the title everywhere from America to Azerbaijan.

With all of the excitement surrounding the debut, Al-Mutawa is making sure that his team stays focused on their main mission, entertaining and educating children. “As the father of four boys, I’m constantly reminded of why I’m doing this,” he explained, “Ultimately, it’s about giving our kids something to aspire to, to teach them about the importance of tolerance and diversity. And of course, to make sure that they have a lot of fun while learning those lessons! We want to make this series every kid’s favourite read.”

THE 99 #1, written by Naif Al-Mutawa and Fabian Nicieza and illustrated by John McCrea and James Hodgkins is available form major retailers throughout the MENA region.