So far in its short run, the Wonder Twins miniseries has tackled multiple facets of the teen experience--acclimating to a new school, the embarrassment of gym class, the disillusionment of discovering the futility of life. In issue #4, it finally covers dating. And also the mystery of science fairs and what goes on there, but mostly dating.

In Wonder Twins #4, both Zan and Jayna are invited out on dates by attractive classmates. Both go poorly for entirely different reasons, though Zan as always puts a positive spin on his experience. Along the way, the subplot of new characters Polly and Filo Math moves forward, and the Legion of Doom throws a Supervillain Mixer--all par for the course for this absurd series.

The highlight of this series has been the consistently strong writing of Mark Russell. It’s disappointing, then, that most of this issue lacks the strong plotting of the first three issues. This issue feels mostly like filler and table setting, which is particularly problematic for the penultimate issue of a limited series. That said, Russell’s trademark wit is ever-present.

Stephen Byrne’s art remains on point, as well. Byrne’s characters are expressive, and he packs as many gags into a panel as Russell does. Letterer Dave Sharpe does excellent work, highlighting Byrne’s art and telling the story clearly and concisely.

Wonder Twins #4 feels like a rare misstep in what has otherwise been an exceptional miniseries. Here’s hoping Russell, Byrne, and Sharpe stick the landing in next month’s conclusion.

Grade: B+