Superman: Secret Identity

(DC, 2004, 2013)
™ and © DC Comics, Inc.

In this thoroughly engaging story, a boy with the misfortune to be named Clark Kent endures the taunts and teasings of family, friends, and classmates until he discovers that, somehow, he has the powers of his famous namesake. This the four-issue mini-series follows Clark through adulthood—including marriage and parenthood—as he balances the needs of his personal and professional lives against his efforts to use his powers in secret.

Busiek’s tale is a thoughtful exploration of what it might mean to fill the role of Superman in a world where he exists as a fictional character to the public at large; a concept Busiek uses for clever effect without it overpowering the tale—from his family’s teasings throughout his life (including his own wife and children) to his adoption of the costume—for reasons that make sense within the story.

Immonen is no stranger to the Superman mythos, and his textured art here adds a grounded quality to the story that perfectly conveys the tone Busiek sets.

— George Nelson

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