Mikeys Library Hot Picks: The Big Blue
This weeks Library hot picks take us back into the old DCU, we have two books featuring Superman, with two very different feels to them.
First up is Superman: Last Stand of New Krypton Book 1, Written by James Robinson, Sterling Gates and Eric Trautmann and artwork by Pete Woods, Julien Lopez, Jamal Igle and others this book collects the first half of the story that ran through the “Last Stand of New Krypton” mini series and all of the Super family titles.
The story follow on from the “World of New Krypton” storyline which saw the recently returned Kryptonians create a whole planet so they could be away from Earth. During this storyline Superman partially severed his ties with earth and joined the Kryptonian army under the dubious leadership of long time foe General Zod.
After struggling to keep their society alive, New Krypton faces the threat of Brainiac, the alien who captured the city of Argo all those years ago and was believed to be responsible for the annihilation of the original planet Krypton. Brainiac isn’t alone in his attack, being assisted by Lex Luthor. The book gives us brilliant battles as Brainiac unleashes an army of drones on the planet. We get all the Super Family, as well as the Legion of Superheroes, and Mon El in this book. Brainiac is basically after the city again and wants Argo back in a bottle. But Kryptonian General Zod has been waiting for this moment since Brainiac first attacked old Krypton and he has a plan to save his people.
It’s a great read, and I’m really looking forward to picking up book two due to the way in which it ends.
The second book is Superman/Batman, this is part of the long running title and reprints issues 60-63. Written by Mike Johnson & Michael Green with artwork provided by Rafael Albuquerque and Francis Manapul. The book present three different stories that are all very good. The first story is titled “Mash Up” and is set in the amalgamated city of Gothamopolis, we meet the Justice Titans and we see some really clever takes on some villains (my favorite being Jimmy Olsen Two Face).
The second story is called “Sidekicked” and doesn’t actually feature either Batman or Superman, instead we are treated to a story featuring Supergirl and Robin (Tim Drake). the story is great with them having to deal with a hostage situation at Arkham Asylum, along the way they encounter everyone’s favorite inmates, who get a good beating for being in the way.
The final story is the titular “Night & Day”, in which Gorilla Grodd floods Earth’s atmosphere forcing Superman to leave. He then takes over the entire world using his telepathic powers….except for Batman.
I must admit to loving this series, even though there have been some shocking moments, there have also been some real gems. It’s a shame that this book didn’t survive the New 52…yet.
Well next week I’ll be trying to review an entire series, so make sure to check that out. Check out your local libraries for books, and drop me a line if you want me to review anything.
Also if your going to Cardiff Comic & Anime Expo, be sure to check out Cardiff Library who will have a stand there.
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