For those who followed Clark Kent's journey, this graphic novel continues his story as he fully embraces his destiny as Superman, facing new challenges and evolving as a hero.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is navigating a significant life transition, such as starting high school or a first job, and feeling the weight of new expectations. This graphic novel continues the story of the beloved TV show 'Smallville', showing Clark Kent as he finally embraces his public role as Superman. It's less about his origin and more about the challenging 'first year on the job' as the world's greatest hero. The story explores themes of identity, responsibility, and how to stay true to yourself when the world's perception of you changes. Appropriate for teens 13 and up, it offers a mature yet hopeful look at stepping into adulthood, making it a great choice for fans of the show or any teen grappling with their own evolving identity.
Main characters are consistently in life-threatening situations common to the superhero genre.
Rating EscalationMild
The comic sometimes deals with slightly more complex or intense scenarios than the TV show.
Sensitive Topics
The primary sensitive topic is superhero-style violence (large scale property destruction, explosions, fighting). It is action-oriented and not graphic. Identity is a core theme, handled directly through Clark's internal monologue and conversations as he struggles with his new public persona. The resolution to each arc is hopeful, reinforcing the value of heroism and teamwork in a secular context.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a teen (14-18) who was a fan of the 'Smallville' TV series and wants to know what happens next. It's also perfect for a teen who is stepping into a new leadership role or facing the pressure of post-high school decisions, and is grappling with questions of identity and how to meet big expectations.
Parent Prep
No specific preparation is needed, though a basic familiarity with the 'Smallville' TV show will greatly enhance the reading experience. A parent can hand this to a teen and let them read it cold, but the emotional weight is carried by the ten seasons of character development that precede it. Parents should be aware of the standard level of comic book action and violence. A parent has heard their teen express anxiety about a new chapter in their life: "Everyone at my new school (or job) expects me to be this certain kind of person, and I'm not sure I can be," or "I feel like I have to leave my old self behind."
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely enjoy the fast-paced action, the return of beloved characters, and the spectacle of Superman in action. An older teen (15-18) is more likely to connect with the nuanced themes of public versus private identity, the political ramifications of a superhero's existence, and the adult relationship dynamics between Clark, Lois, and their friends.
What Makes It Special
Unlike most Superman comics that begin with him as an established icon, this book uniquely chronicles the transition from a known, developing character into that icon. It leverages a decade of television storytelling to give an unparalleled depth to Superman's 'rookie year,' making his struggles with fame, identity, and responsibility feel incredibly personal and earned.
Read plot summary
This graphic novel picks up six months after the 'Smallville' television series finale. Clark Kent has officially become Superman, saving people publicly while balancing his life at the Daily Planet with Lois Lane. The first major story arc involves a series of mysterious energy events and the appearance of a new, powerful adversary, Lex Luthor, who continues to be a threat even from beyond the grave. Clark must team up with his friends, including Chloe Sullivan-Queen and Oliver Queen (Green Arrow), to combat a threat that has global and even interstellar implications. The series also begins to introduce other heroes from the wider DC Universe, re-imagined for the Smallville continuity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Clark has to adjust from being a secret hero ('The Blur') to a public one (Superman). How does this change his decisions and his relationships? When have you felt a change in how people see you?
2
Chloe and Oliver don't have superpowers like Clark, but they are essential heroes in the story. What does the book say about the different ways a person can contribute and make a difference?
3
The world's governments react to Superman with both awe and fear, immediately starting to develop countermeasures. Do you think this is a realistic reaction? Why or why not?
4
Lois Lane has to navigate her relationship with the most famous person on the planet. What specific challenges does she face in this volume, and how does she prove to be Clark's equal partner?
