DC Comics has officially announced its “Summer of Superman” initiative, an expansive celebration of the iconic Man of Steel. Featuring a lineup of exciting comic books, graphic novels, and events, this initiative honors Superman’s enduring legacy as a symbol of truth, justice, and hope. It also pays tribute to his first appearance in the legendary Action Comics #1 in 1938. Let’s dive into the highlights of this ambitious publishing plan.
Action Comics #1085 – April 9
The “Superman Superstars” storyline concludes with Action Comics #1085, set to release on April 9. Written by G. Willow Wilson with art by Gavin Guidry, this two-part story tackles a timely theme: climate change. When Lois Lane sends Superman to investigate groundbreaking technology in the Arctic, he discovers a villain threatening to derail humanity’s hopes for survival. The issue features a main cover by Brad Walker and variant covers by Davide Paratore, Cully Hamner, and Danny Earls.
Summer of Superman Special #1 – April 16
On April 16, the Summer of Superman Special kicks off with an epic 48-page issue featuring top-tier talent, including Dan Slott, Mark Waid, Joshua Williamson, and artist Jorge Jiménez. This one-shot features a three-act story centered on the wedding of Lana Lang and John Henry Irons (Steel). While the day begins as a heartfelt celebration, threats from past, present, and future emerge, setting the stage for major conflicts for the Superman family. Variant covers include works by Alexander Lozano, Mahmud Asrar, and Chrissie Zullo-Uminga, with a special Krypto variant cover.
Superman #25 – April 23
April 23 sees the release of Superman #25, an oversize 48-page issue that marks Lex Luthor’s dramatic return. Written by Joshua Williamson with art from Dan Mora, Eddy Barrows, and Eber Ferreira, the issue continues storylines from the Summer of Superman Special. Luthor’s fight to control Supercorp and Metropolis sets the stage for Superman’s next big challenge. Main and variant covers are provided by notable artists such as Rafael Grassetti, Laura Braga, and Jeff Dekal.
Celebrate Superman Day – April 18
DC is also marking Superman Day on April 18 with a curated selection of titles celebrating the Man of Steel. Highlights include:
- All-Star Superman Deluxe Superman Day Edition hardcover with a new cover by frank Quitely.
- Superman Unchained Deluxe Superman Day Edition hardcover featuring Jim Lee’s art.
- Special editions of All-Star Superman #1 and Superman For All Seasons Book One.
- A facsimile edition of Action Comics #1 with an homage cover by Dan Mora.
- An excerpt from the upcoming young adult graphic novel Jimmy Olsen’s Supercyclopedia.
Superman: The World – June 24
Releasing on June 24, Superman: The World is an international anthology that highlights Superman’s universal appeal. Featuring stories from renowned creators like Dan Jurgens and Lee Weeks, the anthology will launch simultaneously in several countries, including Brazil, India, Germany, and Argentina. This collection showcases why Superman remains a global symbol of hope.
Superman’s Good Guy Gang – July 1
Aimed at younger readers, Superman’s Good Guy Gang debuts on July 1. Written and illustrated by Rob Justus, this graphic novel follows an eight-year-old Clark Kent as he teams up with Hawkgirl and Guy Gardner to explore their budding superpowers. The series is designed for children ages 5–7 and promises future installments featuring Batman, Wonder Woman, and more.
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