I’ll be honest with all of you.  I’m not the biggest Superman fan.  It really doesn’t have anything to do with the character per se, but I’ve never really read Superman stories that are all that interesting.  I mean, how do you write interesting stories about an indestructible guy that has a heart of gold?  I think this is something that many writers have struggled with, but there just so happens to be one guy at DC that gets it: Geoff Johns.  As long time iFanboy residents will know, Geoff Johns is probably the only guy keeping DC afloat these days as he continues to write meaningful and amazing stories about each of their marquee characters.  So, it’s no surprise to me that he’s one of the first writers to really throw an interesting Superman story at me.

What I love about the story line is it’s simple premise: what would happen if someone took away what made Superman Superman, including his powers and his history.  From this premise, Johns has continued to craft a story that is an amazingly fun read,and has added an extra layer of fun by bringing in Legion of Superheroes.  I’ve been having a blast watching these characters continue to deal with problem after problem, and just as you think they’re about to win, things get worse.  But with this issue, we’re shown a light at the end of the tunnel, as Superman shows the villains just what it means to be a hero.

I’m sure I would still enjoy the story, but Gary Frank’s art is adding so much to this book for me.  It’s just so beautiful, and each of the characters exudes a personality and a vitality that many artists often fail to capture.  To say that this is one of the most beautifully drawn Superman books is a bold statement, but it is a statement that I make with confidence.

If you’ve missed out on this storyline, do yourself a favor: track down the other issues or run out and buy the trade.  I promise, you won’t be disappointed.