As a long-time Superman fan, I find myself enjoying all things Superman more so in a long, long time. For the past couple of years, every time I say to myself, “It can’t possibly get better.” It does. And now we have a new title, Superman Unlimited, from writer Dan Slott and artist Rafael Albuquerque.
While the Superman mythos is enjoying a resurgence, let’s take a pause and look at some of the creators who made Superman what he is today. The DC: Superman book from The Folio Society is a premium collection honoring Superman’s enduring legacy and showcases 12 classic stories that mark pivotal moments in his evolution, all crafted before the year 2000.
A standout feature for me, the book includes a rarely seen 1934 letter from Superman’s co-creator, Jerry Siegel. In it, he outlines many of his original concepts for Superman—four years before Clark Kent made his historic debut in Action Comics #1. At a little over 300 pages, it does a fantastic job of representing Superman over the years.
Some of the stories stand out, like the first two appearances of Mr. Mxyztplk, from Superman #30, from 1940, and Mister Mxyzptik, Superman #96, from 1955. See if you can spot the difference between the two! There is Superman #75, from 1993, by writer Dan Jurgens, artists Dan Jurgens and Brett Breeding, with the whole page told in splash pages. Altogether, there are almost a dozen stories. There’s work from John Byrne, Alan Moore, Elliott S! Maggin, and others who put the “super” into Superman.
By far, my favorite comes from the Silver Age, from Superman 149, from 1961. “The Death of Superman,” by Jerry Siegel and Curt Swan. We’re all familiar with imaginary stories, but this one was different because of its dark and tragic depiction of Superman’s demise. At the hands of Lex Luthor, of course. It was not a typical story for the time.
In this alternate timeline, the infamous Lex Luthor pretends to turn over a new leaf, convincing the world—and Superman himself—that he has reformed. He aids the Man of Steel in acts of heroism, gradually earning his trust. However, it’s all part of a sinister plot. Luthor ultimately lures Superman into a carefully devised trap and kills him with Kryptonite radiation, delivering a devastating blow that leaves the world mourning its greatest champion.
In the wake of his death, Superman’s closest allies—including Lois Lane, Supergirl, and the Justice League—are consumed by grief. The world pays tribute to its fallen protector with an elaborate funeral, acknowledging the depth of its loss. But sorrow soon turns to retribution, as Supergirl and Superman’s allies ensure Luthor faces justice for his betrayal.
Though not part of official continuity, Superman #149 holds a special place in comic book history. It was one of the earliest stories to delve into Superman’s mortality, predating the famous Death of Superman arc of the 1990s. The issue is widely praised for its emotional depth, compelling narrative, and Curt Swan’s stunning artwork, which vividly captures Superman’s tragic fate.
DC: Superman from The Folio Society is an excellent addition to any fan’s collection. And, the Superman of today owes a lot to decades of stories by some of the finest creators of comic books. After all, this is Superman’s Year, and what a way to celebrate.
About Author
