Unlikely new comic book superhero on the way _ a Muslim boy in a wheelchair

New Muslim comic book superhero on the way

NEW YORK — Comic book fans will soon be getting their first glimpse at an unlikely new superhero — a Muslim boy in a wheelchair with superpowers.

U.S. philanthropist and businessman Jay T. Snyder says he was inspired by President Barack Obama’s effort to reach out to the Muslim world in his inaugural address.

Last month, Snyder flew 12 disabled Americans to Damascus to meet a group of disabled young Syrians. One of their main goals was to come up with ideas for the new superhero.

The superhero’s appearance hasn’t been finalized, but he definitely will be a Muslim boy in a wheelchair. An early sketch shows a boy who lost his legs in a landmine accident and later becomes the Silver Scorpion with the power to control metal with his mind.