[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Tom King
Art: Andy Kubert & Sandra Hope
Colors: Brad Anderson
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Summary
This issue of Superman Giant features reprints of Superman/Batman #3, Green Lantern (2005) #3 and The Terrifics #3. The issue leads off with a new Superman story from noted Batman scribe Tom King and fan-favorite penciller Andy Kubert.
King is no stranger to heavy material as his current Batman run proves, and he gives Superman a real punch in the gut in this first episode of a multi-part story exclusive to this comic. Batman enlists Superman’s help on a multiple homicide case in Gotham. He asks Superman to interview one of the surviving children for information, knowing that a kid will respond much more favorable to Superman than the Dark Knight. From the little girl, Superman learns that her foster sister was taken by an alien into space after their foster parents were killed.
Clark is unsure how to proceed, he enlists Green Lantern (Hal Jordan) for assistance with an APB on the missing girl to the Green Lantern Corps. He also talks to Pa Kent about the case looking for guidance. Upon learning that the missing girl’s sister who was in the hospital has passed he decides to go after her. He has a talk with Lois, explaining his reasons and soon after takes off into space to find the missing girl.
Positives
This is quite a gut-wrenching episode. No one likes to see kids get hurt, but this is what really hits Superman so hard and creates the connection for the reader. Superman is feeling all the pain and loss that the reader does. King dials right into the notion that Superman is human by nurture, despite his alien DNA. This story appears to be going right at the core of Superman’s character, and it’s quite stunning and emotional.
Batman’s role in the story seems to be manipulative in that he can’t help the girl anymore, because he can’t go into space chasing shadows like Superman can. However, he seems driven by the same empathy as the Man of Steel. King has found that parallel between these two dissimilar heroes and points to the element that connects them.
Negatives
The reprints in this issue are top-notch and the new material looks to be a classic in the making. No negatives here! It does bear mentioning that Superman’s status quo in the story appears to be undefined. Are Lois and Clark married? Why is Pa Kent still living? No matter, the story hits all the right notes for an emotional adventure with the Man of Tomorrow!
Verdict
These reprints are worth the price of admission, but King and Kubert commence a Superman story that appears to be a classic in the making. Go out and be one of those who can say they were there for it! You won’t be disappointed.
