Superman Books

"Superman: Secret Identity" was originally published in four issues, running about 48 pages each, from January to April 2004. "Secret Identity" begins with Clark Kent, a teenage boy in Picketsville, Kansas, who has to deal with the fact that his parents named him after the mythic superhero as sort of a light joke. Of course, it's not a joke for Clark, who has to endure the incessant mockery of his peers as well as a slew of Superman-related gifts for each of his birthdays. But then, one night, completely by accident, Picketsville's Clark Kent discovers that he has the powers of Superman. Through the rest of the comic, Clark journeys to New York, where he becomes a writer for the New Yorker (but not a reporter, mind you) and meets a girl named Lois -- who he just happens to fall head-over-heels in love with. Kent becomes the world's true Superman, living his superlife secretively so the world never becomes aware that the "Superman" is anything more than a story for Weekly World News.

Kurt Busiek's script is brilliant. Busiek has written what is truly one of the most clever, accessible, and downright fun comics in the history of medium. "Secret Identity" is easily the most charming comic I've ever come across. The story is non-canonical, a rarity when dealing with major characters like Superman. But that makes it no less relevant. It's a wonderful, wonderful idea, brought to life by Stuart Immonen's beautiful artwork. Immonen's art begins impressively with issue 1, and it only gets more bright and beautiful with each successive issue.

There isn't a lot to be said about "Secret Identity" -- it's one of those things that doesn't need a lot of talking and does need a lot of reading. What a pleasure. Unfortunately, it's currently out of print. It might be easier to find the individual issues than the collected work. One thing's for sure: it's worth searching for. Busiek and Immonen deserved a lot more attention than they received for this baby, a pure romantic fantasy gem. Comics don't get much more delightful.

I never would have known this was illustrated by Stuart Immonen if the cover hadn't told me. Acclimatized to Immonen's streamlined, cartoony images, the unique, rotoscoped style of Secret Identity came as a shock.

Busiek has definitely buttered his bread with stories about the real-life burdens of being a superhero (see: Astro City), and, in Secret Identity, he's proven that he's up to the task of giving a bit of emotional gravitas to the two-dimensional Superman. In fact, he occasionally skids dangerously close to making the World's Greatest Superhero too whiny.

Although each chapter is good, the whole package feels a bit jumpy - I'm not sure it could have been fleshed out more without becoming boring, but the transitions through Superman's life felt a bit abrupt.

What if you live in a tiny town in Kansas? What if your last name is Kent, and your parents, having an annoying sense of humor, have christened you "Clark"? All his life teenager Clark Kent had been hearing it, teased and taunted with Superman jokes. And there's really nothing for the introverted Clark to do but take it, and take it. Then, one night, Clark finds himself floating on air, and everything changes.

I'm glad I'm not the only one with fond memories of Superboy Prime. I remember reading DC Comics Presents #87 decades ago, when that whole Crisis on Infinite Earths thing was going on. That issue teamed Superman up with the Superboy from Earth-Prime, which is supposed to represent our real world and where Superman is nothing but a well known comic book figure. I loved that issue, but knew there wouldn't be much future for that Superboy (he did survive that Crisis, but then the recent INFINITE CRISIS just ruined him for me). Kurt Busiek, in his intro, credits DC Comics Presents #87 as the genesis for this mini-series.

The SUPERMAN: SECRET IDENTITY trade collects the 4-issue limited series which originally came out in early 2004, and, in my opinion, it's a must-read, not only for fans of Superman or comic books, but for fans of good stories in general. This is one of the best Man of Steel stories I've ever read, even though this Superman definitely falls outside the mainstream DC continuity. Nevertheless, it's right up there with the brilliant ALL STAR SUPERMAN series and Alan Moore's classic Superman take, "Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?" (which can be found in DC Universe: The Stories of Alan Moore).

What makes SECRET IDENTITY stand out for me is the level of thoughful realism injected by writer Kurt Busiek. He's done stuff like this before, of course, in Marvels (Marvel Premiere Classic) and in Astro City: Life in the Big City, so I'm not at all surprised at the depth and texture found here. Unlike other comic book efforts based in the so-called "real world" SECRET IDENTITY doesn't come off as dark or gritty. And while it does contain a measure of violence, it's not gratuitously thrown in to sacrifice good narrative. Despite its reflective tone, these pages are graced with moments of hope and optimism. Busiek uses language that is direct and simple and composed of everyday words. But, somehow, it all translates to storytelling that is lyrical, sensitive, and heartfelt. I've never seen Busiek write better.

SPOILERS now.

SUPERMAN: SECRET IDENTITY is a life story, chronicled in four parts and depicting several stages in Clark's life. In these pages he ages from teenhood to a ripe old age, and we see the generational shifts thru his eyes. Part one delves into his teenage years and his feelings of loneliness and alienation. These feelings only escalate when he comes into his powers. What would you do if you stumble into powers like that? Use them for wealth, fame, and power? But what would you have to give up? And who can you trust? Clark wrestles with these issues. This being a Superman story, it's not too surprising that Clark decides to do his bit, but, this being the real world, he's forced to do it in secrecy. Part two has Clark moving to Manhattan as a fledgling writer. There, the Superman ribbing continues, but this actually leads to a momentous turning point in his life. Clark also finds out that the government, in full paranoia mode, is sniffing around. Part 3 finds Clark in a family way and contemplating ways to keep his loved ones safe (the government is still after him). And in Part 4 Clark is now up there in years, with his powers waning but with the possibility of his legacy being kept alive.

SPOILERS end.

If Busiek's words are evocative, Stuart Immonen's visuals are stunning. He renders his characters in perfectly natural poses and gestures and excels in conveying quiet power and mood even in the quiet scenes. There's quite a number of splash pages placing Clark in some breathtaking, panoramic vistas. I've said that this has been Busiek's best writing so far. Well, this is the best I've seen of Stuart Immonen. Just spectacular artwork from the man.

Superman isn't in my short list of favorites. But that's the other Superman. This Clark Kent here is a different animal, someone who is complex in character and charming in his uncertainty. I like that he has to struggle thru his problems. I like that he derives such simple pleasure from the act of flying. The story is told thru his journals, which he clangs out on an old typewriter (he doesn't trust computers), and so we get to know him on a personal level. There are no supervillains. When not evading the government's grasp, all of Clark's superheroic feats are focused on preventing natural calamities and on undertaking rescue missions. The superhero stuff. But it's curious that, despite all the fantasy elements here, what really resonates for me is the intimate and grounded portrayal of Clark as a man, as a husband, and as a father. The real stuff.

I for one really was never into the whole "Superman" thing. That is, until presented this book. I didn't think anything of it at first, but I couldn't put it down; it was a real page-turner. No complaints here.

OKAY.. this book was okay,a bit slow and without any reason for waking up with superpowers,not one i will hurry to recomend.UNLESS you live in SOUTH AUSTRALIA-like me.why? Because for possibly the ONLY time in comic book history,past and future,WHYALLA is mentioned.A crap town not far from where i live that can now only live off this one famous moment,and plan to slide downhill from here.Perhaps Superman was bored or had relatives there,thats the only reason anyone I know goes there.Besides this great coincidence for me this book was nice...just nice.My wife is currently pregnant and i personally turn to comics to forget about these type of issues,(NOT TO BE INSENSITIVE!!!)seeing Clarkes reactions was OK but not the action or the emotional hieghts of other "touching" comic classics.If you havent read Superman before and your reading this review,DONT.....I JUST ORDERED PUNISHER MAX.2 TO LEVEL MYSELF OUT......Probably a book for life long Superman-fans to enjoy,not bad not 5 stars from me.(dont go to Whyalla)

Though I sometimes find Alex Ross's art to be a little TOO realistic, there are infinitely more instances where his painted work here is majestic and iconic beyond words. And speaking of words, Paul Dini demonstrates a deep understanding of each character represented here and tells their tales capably, thoughtfully, and emotionally. It's a gorgeous volume for a killer price. Grab it.

As the title says this book is a must have if you are a fan of the staple DC heroes at all.

The World's Greatest Super-Heroes is part comic, part encyclopedia giving you a good story as well as the background on some of the oldest super-heroes in the industry.

If you haven't yet seen the book in person let me make sure one thing is abundanlt clear: It...is...big. It comes in a hard-cover sleeve (the same sort of system you get full season TV shows on DVD) that measures in at 9.5" x 13". This information is readily available but people may still be in for a shock when they receive the book.

Once you pull the book from it's housing you will find a fantastic hard-cover book with an artistic sleeve over it. Why do I bother commenting about he artistic sleeve? Well, because it is painted by Alex Ross, a man who I think should be heralded as one of the "World's Greatest Comic Artits".

My first fun in with Alex's work was the Kingdom Come series. If you have ever picked up and read a comic in your life then you know the medium (style and materials of art) has changed over the last century. Modern comics are actually computer shaded and coloured for the most part. Before that was the great days of the sketch artist, inker, colour artist system. Jump way, way back and we had the basic sketch artist to colour-dot print colouring system.

Well, Alex Ross doesn't use a single one of those systems. No, the man uses oil paints. Having as many artists around me as I do in my life I can appreciate the skill required for this sort of work. In fact, I have watched Alex paint real-time on a few television shots. He brings the comic book, which is really a hard set of words to use when it comes to Ross' work, characters to a new photo-realistic quality. Seriously, if you are reading this and you have never seen a single piece of Alex's work stop reading and Google the man. You just might be impressed.

It's funny, I own over 700 comic books myself, some 40+ years old. I was a Marvel fanatic when I was younger, but I find as I age that the DC universe actually holds more for me. I blame this partly on Alex Ross, Paul Dini, Marv Wolfman, and Mark Waid for bringing me such deep stories with true emotion then presenting them in brilliant form. I know I have harped on Alex Ross' work but the authors mentioned above should be lauded for their work as well (with the respective works being The World's Greatest Super Heroes, Crisis on Infinite Earths, and Kingdom Come).

Either way, if you love anything DC you should own this book.

Read More at www.GameTechWorld.com

I am not a knowledgable comic person but the art work and the information for me was just outstanding.

Ross and Dini did a fantastic job in delivering powerful and heartfelt stories surrounding these great characters. Its A+ work from some of comicdoms most fantastic creators. A must own.

Alex Ross is an incredible artist and this is the type of book that really showcases his art. If you are a dc comics fan and a fan of incredible art work get this book.

First Off: When buying a slipcased, oversized comic book you should always CHECK THE QUALITY. This book in particular came with a torn up slipcase.

I'm by no means a "comic book" guy. Everyone I know puts this book in the league of extraordinary comics (such as Watchmen, Dark Night Returns) but I cannot figure out why.

The story is rushed and sporadic (see: the building/filling of the prison). The reproduction of the artwork is spotty (as many have pointed out). The overall length is depressingly short. The comic doesn't take its time and develop; it makes a mad dash for the finish line, ignoring its initial themes in favor of a quick, predictable ending.

The story is magnificent, the wide array of background characters and new characters provides a rich backdrop for the conflict, and the artwork is absolutely amazing.

A ground-breaking must-read for any fan of DC comics characters!

The hardcover Absolute Kingdom Come is one of the BEST hardcover comics I own. The story is excellent as well. If you want a comic that will boost your collection this is definitely one of the ones to choose!

Exactly what I was looking for at a great price! My husband could not get enough of it - he has read it from cover to cover!!

This book was the best gift I've ever given. I've read it before and its a must read by for any comic lover. Plus, the price is unbeatable because it normally goes for atleast $75 in any give bookstore. It came in awesome condition and very timely. A high reccomended item for any comic fan.

Nothing like the original stuff which came out before I was old enough to read. A 'must have' for anyone serious about the classic comics.

The reprints are gorgeous and in a wonderful hardcover that shouldn't fall apart too quickly. The text prefacing the book is boring and unneccessary, mostly, this book just costs waaayyyy too much. I would've preferred to get it in comic book format for about 10 dollars, but they no longer reprint this stuff. The stories aren't very good, but it's interesting to read in it's amateurishness and see how things originally were intended.

This is actually some great stuff. I think the early Superman stories are good examples of exciting storytelling with interesting social commentary.

For example, the first Superman story contains a none-too subtle anticaptial punishment message, as our man saves a lady from an execution and a man form a lynching (remember, this is 1938). The second shows Supe stopping a war that is concocted by munitions manufactureres (an early anti-WW2 message).

Along with that, reading these early adventures gives you the feeling that you're a little kid in pre-television 1938-39, sitting with awe and wonder with these exciting tales either being read to you by a skilled adult storyteller, or by yourself with a flashlight at night. Once you get in that mood of an inner child, you can really get into this stuff and it's lots of fun.

However, I would agree that the cost is a bit much for a new edition. Buy a good used copy. Gather the kids (over age 10, that is) around, turn the lights down low, read it with vigor, and have a ball!

The book was recived with in a week of sale and was shipped very well.

I was going to point out that the chief value of reading the first four issues of "Superman" collected in Volume 1 of the "Superman Archives" was nostalgia, but then I realized that the term really applies to the past that you remember, and I was not reading "Superman" comic books back in 1939. Actually, reading any of the Superman titles was something I only did when we went to visit my cousins because their sun porch had a treasure trove of comic books. The comic books I remember buying on a semi-regular basis were war comics, specifically "Sgt. Fury and His Howling Commandos" and "Sgt. Rock" ("Our Army at War" back then). Since my father was in the military this was hardly surprising. When the "Batman" television series came out I was caught up in that and bought a subscription to the "Batman" comic book for a year, by first superhero comic book, very much aware that it was quite different from the show. But it was not until we were stationed in Japan that I got into Marvel Comics in a big way ("Amazing Spider-Man" #62 was my first purchase), and while I was busy Making Mine Marvel I developed a corresponding disdain for Superman and the entire DC line that lasted for a while. After all, I remember a Superman story where he swallows his costume to protect his identity, assuring the readers everything would come out okay in the end. Anyhow, it was not until DC rebooted the Man of Steel, giving him over to John Byrne for a significant makeover, that I started reading Superman comics on a regular basis. So actually reading the first four issues of was a revelation.

Keep in mind that Superman first appeared in the first issue of "Action" comics in 1938, so even though we get an origin story in "Superman" #1 these are not the very first Superman stories. I have a reprinted version of "Superman" #1 that is part of the "Superman Masterpiece Edition," along with an 8-inch state of the 1938 Superman and an illustrated book chronicling the Man of Steel's Golden Age, so I had read that premier issue before. The origin is actually just the first two pages of the first story in which the main plot has Superman saving an innocent woman from the electric chair (and getting Clark Kent a job at the "Daily Star"). This leads to the second story where Superman teaches a munitions maker about the horrors of war. Then we find an invitation to become a charter member of "Supermen of America" and a "Scientific Explanation of Superman's Amazing Strength" (Krypton's inhabitants evolved to physical perfection). The other two stories in the issue are reprinted from earlier issues of "Action," with Superman teaching a lesson to the heartless own of a coal mine and then taking the place of Tommy Burke, the greatest football player of all time. Following an introduction to Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman's creators, there is two-page prose story regarding the Man of Steel (amazing that kids would want to read a prose story in a comic book).

In "Superman" #2 the Man of Tomorrow saves Larry Trent the ex-heavyweight champ from committing suicide and getting him a chance to re-win his title in the first story and "Champions Universal Peace!" in the second by ending the Boravian Civil War (at one point a soldier thinks he must be shooting blanks at Superman and shoots himself in a foot to prove, well disprove, his hypothesis). Then we have "Superman and the Skyscrapers," where Clark Kent investigates five deaths in as many days at the erection of the Atlas Building, followed by another prose story (but this time accompanied by two drawings). "Superman" #3 offers stories in which Superman and Clark help a runaway orphan, Clark battles Lois to get a big story (and Lois kisses Superman for what appears to be the first time), Superman has to deal with advertisers using his name as well as a spate of crimes, and Superman captures a smuggling ring. Clark has a lot more to do in these stories (and he is now working at the "Daily Planet"), which are a bit shorter as Siegel and Shuster's work is compliment by a couple of prose stories that have nothing to do with Superman and a one-page strip about a dog named "Shorty." In "Superman" #4 our hero takes on the evil Professor Martinson, fights a torpedo-like projectile and a pterodactyl courtesy of the mad scientist known as Luthor (no first name, but he has hair), stops a saboteur, and saves a truck drivers union from racketeers.

As I was reading these stories I was rather surprised that Siegel and Shuster were coming up with four Superman stories for each of these 72-page issues, but when you get to the back of this volume the Afterword by Jim Steranko explains that some of these stories are reprinted from "Action" and a couple were converted from stories drawn for newspaper syndication. Steranko, who also does the Foreword where he puts the creation of Superman in historical perspective, candidly observes that these two young pioneers typically stumble and fall in these early efforts, "yet, in retrospect, their failures are often as interesting as their successes." That is really what is captivating about these early stories, because neither the quality of the stories nor of the artwork is all that compelling. Here we discover that Superman is clearly a creature of the Great Depression whose commitment to justice is tempered by socialist inclinations as he protects the workers against the rich. It is also interesting to see that Superman dislikes Lois Lane as much as she disdains Clark Kent. Most obvious is that Superman does not have his full superpowers at this point where he can "hurdle skyscrapers, leap an eighth of a mile, raise tremendous weighs, run faster than a streamline train, and nothing less than a bursting shell could penetrate his skin!" Still, you can find the bare bones of the Superman mythos here and come to a better understanding how the first comic book superhero ended up becoming the greatest one of them all.

This is historically the best book I've read since, "Sister outsider". In only 129 pages you will find the history of the world. Historians will truly enjoy this witty and humorous text. It reminds one of the teachings of Fanon. What I would like to know, if anyone can answer this question for me. Who is the M. Finot that J.A. Rogers often quotes in the book? Thanks Sincerely.Jm

I had this book for five years before I finally picked it up to read and to my surprise, it was magnificent...an exciting verbal exchange between a politician whose knowledge regarding people is neglegeable and a porter whose knowledge of people is extensive. The two strike up a conversation first as servant to customer then ending as teacher informer to student learner. Its very passionate, engrossing and will keep your interest.

While cleaning out a closet full of books at the community center where I serve as its Educational Director, this book falls off of the shelf. It has been the most enlightening book I have ever read! The previous reviewers have spoken ever so eloquently, I will simply say, given the psuedo-intellectual, "we have overcome" times we live in, J.A. Rogers' work should be manditory reading for all. At home and abroad. This book keeps it "real.

This book was given to me by a good friend. I've read it at least 3 times. The clever way the author used this fictional story to illustrate that genotype among the human race is unilateral and how differentiating us by phenotype is ridiculous, is brilliant. "Prejudice is the reason of fools."-Voltaire. This book should be required in all areas of sociology and cultural studies. Again, a must read.

Hands down this book should be a MANDATORY read of all young African Americans. If BET were to share just a fact a day with it's viewers; that would single handedly change the state of todays youth, which would entail a more productive renasiance-esque future for all!!! Please read this book!! And share with all!!

I am pleased with this book. It is written in a non-technical, professional manner and provides practical, useful strategies that I can do with my child. I would encourage anybody with add kids to read it.

This is the only book that I have come across that presents ADHD in a positive light. Additionally, it provides many helpful strategies for both teachers and parents. The only knock that I can say about this book is that it doesn't talk much about medications. All else is great.

Cimera, Robert E. (2002) Making ADHD a Gift: Teaching Superman How to Fly. Lanham, Maryland: Scarecrow Education.

How you teach children about ADHD could set the tone for the rest of their lives. You'll have to paint an honest picture of the condition but also be very positive .... Talk to them about their favorite superhero.... Bring up the fact that each superhero has different abilities.... Then explain that people in real life are a lot like superheroes-everybody has different abilities.... The super abilities of kids with ADHD include having a lot of energy and being able to run around a lot without getting tired. They can also be very creative and intelligent. The purpose of school and IEPs is to get children with ADHD to control and utilize their super abilities for "The Good"... You are teaching Superman how to fly (p. 97).

This is the gift of this book. Robert E. Cimera is an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh who was diagnosed with ADHD-C as an adult. He views ADHD as a positive ability. Each chapter begins with a chapter outline; a case study, illustrating elements that will be addressed in the chapter; questions for consideration, for understanding the case study; and a discussion of underlying elements, concerns and strategies. The information is conveyed in a conversational style suitable for the layperson or student educator.

In the first chapter he gives an overview of definitions and diagnoses of the four types of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): ADHD-I (Inattentive), ADHD-HI (Hyperactive-Impulsive), ADHD-C (Combined), ADHD-NOS (Not Otherwise Specified). This information serves as a basis for understanding the case studies and discussions that follow. Each chapter gently carries the reader through a critical thinking process of application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.

In the chapters that follow, the author covers the topics of: inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, social skills, educational programs, and strategies for ADHD children, adolescents and adults. Cimera also has the reader consider the possibility of other conditions or situations that could mistakenly be diagnosed as ADHD. The last chapter contains resources for individuals with ADHD and resources for their teachers and parents. It includes booklists, periodicals, videotapes, contact information for organizations and support groups and an annotated list of Internet sites. Most of the materials had imprints from the early nineties and late eighties. Only one of the websites mentioned was not currently accessible. The website annotations were quite pertinent to their content with the exception of the U.S. Department of Education site, which has been drastically revised since the publication of this book. Although there is a very detailed table of contents, there is no index. The addition of an index would have been useful.

Overall, Cimera provides a positive, supportive and informative voice on the subject of ADHD. I found the examples of students and their goals (pp.130-131) especially illuminating in exploding my own preconceived attitudes toward ADHD. Special education students, classroom teachers, parents and adult individuals with ADHD could find valuable information and insights in this book. It provides an accessible introduction to the condition and provides the reader with the educational, environmental and behavioral accommodations and strategies that can help ADHD students, their parents, teachers and classmates create supportive scaffolding for success...

Positive and informative. I big help for teachers or parents of children with ADD. Loads of strategies and resources.

Somebody at a CHADD meeting suggested that I read this book. I am happy that I did! It is so well written that I couldn't put it down. I read it in one evening. It gives many practical strategies. But the best feature is that it views ADHD as a gift that should "be utilized, not repressed!" I can't recommend this book more highly. Get it. You'll be happy that you did!

This is one of the most unusual books I've come across in a long time in the way it thoughtfully blends learning from the author's life and many different disciplines of study. By carefully organizing the material into two sections, Robert Kamm makes some very profound ideas easy to understand. There are wonderful insights about why we so readily give in to the speed of the information age. Especially enjoyable for me was Chapter Four which peels back the Superman myth layer by layer to reveal some startling messages. I also found quite unique among all books on family and workplace issues Kamm's emphasis on the importance of the grieving process in helping us grow. The scope of the book is almost too ambitious, but he pulls it off with passion. A courageous and eloquent work.

Extraordinary depth of thought yet expressed very clearly. The most comprehensive book of its kind available--moves from a theory about human nature through a fascinating explanation of the underlying meaning of the superman myth, to personal application, then professional and organizational. Very wise on intrapersonal dynamics. A unique applicatiion of the grieving process as part of a liberated person's standard operating mode. Insights could be as valuable to just anybody trying to live their live or apply to business, social, religious and political leaders. Being in business myself, I'm impressed that a business leader, or any leader for that matter, who really "gets" the author's message could revolutionize his way of operating and lead his people to higher productivity, more genuine satisfaction and a better balance between work and family. One of those books that, if it hits you, it hits you hard and you want to share it with a lot of people you know. Author's description of superman made me feel as if he'd been peeking into my psyche, my father's and my grandfather's. Strong stuff...and apparently only the first in a trilogy. More, please, Mr. Kamm!

Best selling author Harvey Mackay wrote "Swim With The Sharks", describing the dog-eat-dog world we live in and how to be the dog that eats. In "The Superman Syndrome," Kamm brings the voice of compassion, integrity and openess to the service of humanity as the way we ought to conduct our lives. He provides the counterpoint to Mackay: "Swim With the Dolphins."

When we choose to live a life at speed, not depth, we choose an unrelenting willingness to sacrifice family, love, marriage and all else in pursuit of success. That's the synthesis of what Kamm calls "The Superman Syndrome."

For men in particular, there's an opportunity to cast the Superman uniform aside in favor authentic selfhood and family. Kamm says it's where "the inner and outer journeys are inextricably woven together...to tear down the wall of illusion between personal and professional realms."

Amen.

I had Bob Kamm's book for several months before I slowed down to read it. I knew better, but my life was caught up in speed at the expense of depth. Bob has a hard hitting way of reminding me about the importance of relationships, without leaving me bleeding on the side of the road. So, after reading the book, I gave it to my son to read, and now I'm going to get another copy for my daughter and son-in-law. This is a must read for all of them. For someone you love, read The Superman Syndrome.

I expected this book to be about our being inundated with information and how that drives us to be super-human and create something in us that makes us seem sick. What I got was a hundred pages of reviews of Superman (the movies, comics, and other items) and then 200 pages of how to fix our problems as a result of our Superman myth becoming reality. But the real gist of this book is that we are addicted to the working speed of the information age (which is a synonym for today) and, as a result of this, we are denying our most valuable job: to be effective parents. If we change the purpose of our lives to be children-focused, then we will have a better society. No argument there. What he suggests is very much akin to The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, which I happen to agree with. While his writing is imaginative and flowing, in general, I found this book redundant, not very cohesive, and not well organized. I agree with the findings he presents in the last half of the book, but it certainly could be more succinct. The title could better reflect the content.

Hands down the most interesting 'behind the scenes' book I have ever read. Despite my thinking I knew alot of the background to the controversial development of the Superman movies this book has so much new information I couldn't stop reading it and knocked it off in 3 days. The history on the Reeves's Serial and Reeve's Film series is incredibly detailed (The 'Dinner with Brando' story is a highlight) while including an interesting commentary on how the charater's portrayal by hollywood relates to the character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. I had no idea the amount of grief they were put through by Warner so it is a very interesting read in terms of the ongoing legal battles between their respective estates and Warner.

The sections on Smallville and Superman Returns are unfortunately brief compared with the other parts of the book but that is a slight criticism on a book that was otherwise thoroughly engrossing. A very welcome addition to my superhero library.

This was a great book and a very quick read! It is also a very scary and eye-opening look into the world of Hollywood in general, not just with Superman. And it seems that anyone who's not a corporation who becomes associated with Superman projects historically gets screwed in some way. Sadly, it began with Superman's creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, who unfortunately fought for their rights to the character until their deaths. (this was recently ruled in their favor, but sadly it went to their descendants so the two men didn't live to see their life long struggle victorious). Even the Fleischer Studios Superman cartoons of the 1940's came with their share of bad luck for Max Fleischer who was forced to hand over profits made. Then, when George Reeves died mysteriously after participating in 1950's show, The Adventures of Superman, the legend of "The Superman curse" spread. When Richard Donner created his memorable Superman movies ,they were already mired in conflict with the studios which is why they degraded in quality until Superman IV killed the franchise for 20 years. And for all those Superman Returns nay-sayers, there was a whole load of crap that could have been made during those years, so I have a new appreciation for that movie. Overall, a great book which also goes into Smallville (for those of you who still watch).

This was one of the most enjoyable books about a comic icon that I have ever read. I won't bore you with what I liked as others posting reviews have done so already and much more thoroughly than I ever could...If you are a Superman fan, read this book. I am sure you will find many things you did not know. It was very hard to put it down. Enjoy

I was expecting a picture laden history of the large scale Superman movies from the 70's and eighties when I first thought about buying this book and was a little put out by the fact there were not a lot of pictures in it. However, the information inside the covers of this book was eye opening indeed and didn't need pictures to illustrate the point.

If you're looking for all the juicy, digging up the dirt on celebrities trivia on what went on behind the scenes in any of the incarnations of Superman, this really isn't the place to look.

If you're looking for a well researched history on all the trials and tribulations involved in getting Superman off the pages of comic books and up into the sky via radio serials, TV live action series and cartoons or cinemas, this is the book for you.

The author has dug deep and gathered together a wide cross section of information that shows just how hard it is to get a idea past the post. From writers who have no idea how to write the Superman character to studio execs who are only interested in the after market merchandising and how to save a few million dollars by compromising the vision.

The fact that Superman actually got to fly is pretty amazing.

I was so engaged that I read the book in a day instead of stretching it out. Lots of interesting info. The backstage in-fighting was fascinating and so were the accounts of the evolution of various Superman TV shows and movies. Since the other reviewers have hit a lot of the high points, and at the time that I purchased the book, no table of contents was attached, here's a breakdown of the subjects covered.

The first couple of chapters cover Bud Collyer,Kirk Alyn, and George Reeves, as you might expect. The middle section deals largely with the Salkinds, Richard Donner, Richard Lester, and Christoper Reeve; the making of Superman I-III. There's an excursion by one chapter into the Salkinds' Supergirl movie and it's effect on the Superman franchise. There are also scattered references throughout the book to the Batman TV shows/movies and that franchise's effects on Superman. Spiderman and other superhero movie/shows are referenced, but Batman gets the most page time.

The Cannon Group and Superman IV are also discussed. Then we move onto the Superboy TV show and more on the Salkinds. The next bit covers Lois & Clark and there's a brief visit to Bruce Timm's animated version of Superman. Smallville is also dealt with. Most of the latter portion of the book is about with the scripts, producers, and actors contemplated for various possible versions of a new Superman movie before Superman Returns was decided upon. Bryan Singer and the making of Superman Returns are also discussed.

On the whole, this is a very intriguing look. I wish the author had been less cursory in the discussions of Smallville and had gone into more detail with the animated versions of Superman, but I would recommend this book to any Superman fan.

This one was as good as Last Son of Krypton, even if in a different way. The characterisations of Luthor and Superman were done in the same way, even if, due to the nature of the antagonist here, there was not the same amount of byplay between the two old foes. The plot centres around a time travelling post graduate history student, coming back to find out the events surrounding what they call Miracle Monday.

Forget what Byrne and the others have done for/to Superman. THIS is the real Superman and Lex Luthor. In this, Lex Luthor is not a maniacally-laughing, hand-wringing super-villain trying to "take over the world." He's a man with emotions and motivations--in other words, he's believable. In this novel, and Maggin's other great novel Superman: Last Son of Krypton, both characters are real people with real emotions and you will grow to love them both in different ways. Pick this book up and I promise you will not be disappointed in the versions of Superman and Lex you find here.

This was one of the best prose adaptions of Superman. I haven t even read it in years but I remeber it fondly. I really wish todays comic writers would all read it and focus on quality not quantity. If you are interested in Superman as a comics fan or for his mainstream sell this book is a great read (although some things about Mork and Mindy date it a bit).

...and find the only two books (that I know of) that Mr. Maggin wrote in this series. I remember reading them nearly twenty years ago and loved them then.

Time has only made me appreciate the writing even more. Not only are the characters drawn with a finer hand than in the movies, but you really get a feel of the heroic dimensions of Superman. The personalities, the history, the sheer scope of what it means to be a superman are all made as realistic as you could imagine.

The synopsis has been written about in earlier reviews. I'll just say that of the two, I preferred Miracle Monday somewhat more because of the intergalactic scope. But the first book was great as well.

If only there had been more in the series. These books are on my shelf of "oldies but goodies" and I when I'm looking for a great read, Mr. Maggin's books never fail.

Since the popularity of Kingdom Come, a lot has been made of 'that' version of Superman. His influence is felt throughout Superman comics and on the Smallville TV show on the WB. But even the story's creators, Mark Waid and Alex Ross, acknowledge the debt they owe to Elliot S! Maggin. While Chris Reeve was making us believe a man could fly in the cinemas, Maggin was turning out these masterpieces of writing based on, of all things, comic book characters. In this, the second of his two novels (check out Last Son of Krypton also!) Superman must undergo a truly neverending battle, as C. W. Saturn, Hell's agent on Earth, harries the hero twenty-four seven: upending buildings, causing plagues of frogs, exposing Supes' secret identity, and for a big finish (and this is just a terrifying moment) setting off every nuclear weapon on the planet simultaneously, which, by the way, is handled MUCH better than the anti-nuke issue in Superman 4. Maybe they should have read this thing. Superman must circle the globe over and over again trying to head off the fiend's multiple menaces. Meanwhile, Lex Luthor is carrying on in one of the subplots with the style and humor that make Maggin's interpretation of these characters the best ever. This book is a real companion piece to the first, but can be enjoyed alone. People who prefer a little more darkness to their superheroes can also get something from this. Particularly disconcerting is the flashback to when Pa Kent realizes that his adopted son's absolute power could make him a champion of all mankind - or Earth's greatest tyrant. The scene where Jonathan Kent is diggng for the buried fragment of Kryptonite and Superboy comes out of the ground to confront him is chilling to the bone. To those who only see the Pre-Crisis Superman as the child-oriented humerous comics of the 50's and 60's, this book would be a real eye-opener, and maybe broaden a few horizons back to a time when the larger than life affectations of comic book characters were treated thoughtfully and used to tell mature and entertaining stories, rather than today's tendency to lock them away from sight like a mad relative in a period romance. Check this one out.

I am amazed with the art department for Superman Returns. The designs for The Daily Planet and Lex Luthor's yacht are simply beautiful. Absolutely pick this up and see just how much went into the design of Superman Returns. It's super!

Fans of the film SUPERMAN RETURNS must have this film book: it covers all the concepts and developmental art which served as the movie's foundation, pairing over two hundred works of art - costumes, locations, sets - with interviews with the director, screenwriters, artists and costume designers involved. Sketches and color stills accompany reviews of the plot's progression and choices in production. THE ART OF SUPERMAN RETURNS packs in the color and the depth and is the perfect accompaniment to the movie.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

I really liked this book because it gave you a behind the scenes look into the film through Pre-Production artwork. I especially enjoyed all the artwork where Superman gets into a spaceship on krypton, this scene was cut out of the movie. Over all the Artists did a good job in recreating the Superman Univerise, the book supports there efforts! A must have for your (art of) Collection:)

Matt

This is a magnificent book. If you were swept away by the artistry of the movie "Superman Returns" like I was, this book is a MUST. Big photographs from the film, sketches, paintings, and storyboards galore abound in this excellent coffeetable edition.

Among my favorites are:
*A full page painting of Superman lying unconscious in a crater in Metropolis Park after falling from space
**An almost 2-page painting of Superman lifting New Krypton out of the ocean, complete with tidal waves and green Kryptonite-laced lightening
***Photos and details about the new Superman uniform - like that it is actually fit for a 9-year old boy, then stretches onto a 6-foot-three Brandon Routh so that there will be absolutely no wrinkles
****Great explanation about Superman's story-opening trip to Krypton and his starship, complete with awesome paintings and photos from deleted scenes
*****Insight about the art deco design of Metropolis - why we just can't take our eyes off of that COOL Daily Planet Building

Superman fans will be happily consumed by the book's artwork and text that will broaden their knowledge and scope of the film. It is a nice size, probably worth more than you'll pay for it, and will definitely become a collector's item! To be re-read often!

One of the best cross-promotional items I've seen based on the new Superman Returns film is "The Art of superman Returns" from Chronicle Books. This 160 page, hardcover book with dust jacket is simply breathtaking as it takes readers behind the cameras of the recent blockbuster film with hundreds of pieces of concept art, storyboards, models and miniatures, paintings, sketches, costumes and photography. It serves to show in vivid depth the amount of detail and planning that goes into making a big budget film like Superman Returns.

The Foreward by director Bryan Singer brings this home right off the bat as Singer is shown standing in the midst of a miniature version of Metropolis, surrounded by buildings taller than he as train tracks and weave all around him. It's a fascinating photo. Full color paintings show Superman's rescue of the stricken jet. Storyboards bring the rooftop standoff sequence to near life as the machine gun pours bullets at the Man of Steel to no avail.

Moving to Smallville, we see the Kent farm recreated in perfect miniature and you can't help but marvel at the skill of the model and miniature artists as no detail is too small for them to include in their work. Once painted, you'd be hard pressed to guess that you were looking at a model, and not a real farmhouse and barn.

One of my favorite parts of the book was a look at Krypton. The Krypton of this film, while similar to the earlier Superman films, is a bit darker and edgier. Superman's Fortress of Solitude gleams compared to earlier films where it was sort of a dull white.

Throughout the book, author Daniel Wallace provides even more detail about the creative process behind the various creations of settings, scenes, and costumes. Metropolis, with all its art-deco accents is truly a sight to behold. Wallace is aided by comments from the film's screenwriters, production and costume designers, not to mention Bryan Singer himself. This is one of those books designed for the avid fan or collector, or even those who might be interested in getting into film work themselves.

Reviewed by Tim Janson