The following contains spoilers for the story "They Make Great Pets" from Batman #119, on sale now
There have been numerous Robins over the years, with the role serving as a necessary counter to Batman's darker impulses. Some versions of Robin have been darker than others, but none have been as naturally bright and optimistic as the newest potential person to take on the role.
"They Make Great Pets" from Batman #119, by Karl Kerschl, and John Rauch sees Maps suit up as Robin on her own and work alongside a reluctant Batman. Even if the Dark Knight has reservations about recruiting Maps as the next Robin, she might actually be the best possible candidate to take on the position.
"They Make Great Pets" takes place during a vacation for the students of Gotham Academy. With most of her friends on holiday or otherwise disposed, Maps ends up investigating the disappearance of her classmate Lindsay Okamura. Returning home, Maps ends up donning her homemade Robin suit and searching the river near where Lindsay's family lives. But while there, Maps encounters Batman -- who's also investigating the disappearance of Lindsay. Batman initially tries to drive Maps home to keep her safe, but a horde of mysterious creatures catches their attention near the river. Batman orders Maps to remain in the Batmobile, but she quickly tries to help before he's pulled into the river.
Maps Mizoguchi has been a fan-favorite character since her debut in Gotham Academy. One of the leads of the series and the founder of the academy's "Detective Club," Maps is a bright young woman who idolizes heroes like Batman. Maps has encountered the Bat-Family before, befriending Damian Wayne and encountering Tim Drake and Batgirl during separate missions. Maps has been teased as a potential Robin recruit in the past -- with the (at the time seemingly non-canonical) Batman: Black & White #4 showcasing how well she could work with Batman. Like Tim Drake, Maps could bring a youthful enthusiasm and natural intellect to the role. She has a great deal of potential, with Damian Wayne noting on more than one occasion that she has real potential as a crime solver.
Although it's clear from their interactions that Batman fears for Maps' safety, he might not have a choice. In the past, Batman has tried to sway other young heroes from following in his footsteps. But numerous Robins and Batgirls have ignored this and instead fought alongside him (such as Steph Brown), and Maps could do the same. The burgeoning young detective would introduce a bright outside perspective to the Bat-Family. She'd further connect the young people of Gotham (and specifically Gotham Academy) with the Bat-Family. She already has good relationships with some of their number. Her presence as a Robin could even help bring back Damian Wayne following his recent rebellion.
Maps might quietly be one of the best modern candidates to become a new Robin, especially if she can find a way to help save Batman's life. She could also bring a unique sense of empathy to the proceedings. Her time as Olive Silverlock's best friend has given her the chance to see "monstrous" villains like Killer Croc in a softer light. Maps might be an ideal addition to the Bat-Family, even if Batman seems wary about working alongside her. In an era where Batman and his allies have been confronting the character's inherent darkness, Maps could provide a bright new light to the hero.