Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Superman: The Dailies, Volume 1 -1939-1940

Superman: The Dailies, Volume 1 - 1939-1940
by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster [741.5 qSie]

This is a collection of the first Superman stories from the 1930's. They were originally printed in the newspaper, but reading them feels like a graphic novel short story collection. There are several story arcs in the book; Superman comes to the aid of a variety of folks including a suicidal boxer, a runaway orphan, and royalty. What I liked about this, and I think would appeal to others too, is that it's very easy to get into. What I mean by that is if superheros or comics sound interesting, but you're put off by all the back stories it feels you need to know before beginning, then you should try this. The first few strips recount Superman's birth on an alien planet and how he came to Earth. His story then starts as he decides to use his super power to help those in need as Superman, and as Clark Kent, gets a job as a reporter for a newspaper. Adventure after adventure ensues, but in these strips his powers have limits. I think that makes things more exciting than knowing he can do anything and survive any circumstance. In addition to the heroic adventures, what's equally entertaining is watching him switch between his Superman and Clark Kent personas. It's especially comical when he finally goes on a date with his co-worker Lois Lane as Clark, when he hears something on the radio which causes him to duck out and disappear as Superman; when he returns hours later, Lois is rather grouchy. I think this would appeal to graphic novels readers or superhero fans who haven't read the original comics. -- recommended by Kristen A. - Gere Branch Library [If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try Old American comics: Superman: the dailies, volume 2, Dick Tracy: The Thirties, Micky Mouse the Race to Death Valley.]

[ official Superman: The Dailies page on the offical DC web site ]


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