Nevertheless, the villain is no less imposing. Clean analog that pervades public consciousness. Sale’s balding but redheaded Lex Luthor is a striking reimagining of the scheming businessman, a far cry from the muscular Mr. One can instantly recognize the bumbling, oafish Clark Kent in “All Star Superman” in Sale’s own rounded, gentle giant. There’s also a unique flavor, one that has since worked itself into the fabric of the Superman visual tapestry. There’s the obligatory call-back to the iconic images of Superman history, i.e. There are hints of Superman: The Movie, with the film’s early train scene lifted nearly shot for shot. Joined by colorist Bjarne Hansen, whose dreamy pastels and water color-esque panels are truly awe-inspiring, Sale mixes established visual cues with his own distinct style. It is arguably one of Sale’s finest works of art. Now, for a completely objective statement: this is a stunningly gorgeous book. So, I hope you wont write me off when I say that “Superman For All Seasons” is one of finest Superman stories to have ever been put to page, deserving recognition among the likes of “All Star Superman” and “Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow.” Don’t let its gimmicky framing device fool you, Loeb and Sale get to the heart of the Superman mythos, distilling it down to its most accessible and emotionally resonant end. As with Lois in the midst of a magic summer, you could say I’ve lost my objectivity. An admitted Superman apologist, hailing from a small farming town, marrying his high-school sweetheart, moving from said small town to the big city this story speaks to my soul.

I’ll admit upfront, I’m a total mark for this type of story. It also features in-depth characterizations of Lana Lang, Lex Luthor, Lois Lane and the Kents. The catalyst for the “Smallville” television program, SUPERMAN FOR ALL SEASONS is emotional and insightful, humanizing the alien from another planet so that he is not only realistic but also relatable. Told through the course of four seasons in the Man of Steel’s adolescent life, it illustrates that it is the person, not the powers, that makes Superman a hero. In this coming-of-age tale witness the experiences and adventures that transform a simple country boy into the world’s greatest hero.

Superman for all seasons deluxe edition