Many things are working in this first issue. Jon's compassion and understanding of humanity is similar to Clark's. We see this displayed in small ways throughout the issue and it shows both new readers and longtime fans how Jon is trying to wear the cape. We also see a dialogue between Damian and Jon that reminds avid readers of their friendship and introduces new readers to their bond. The art from John Timms is poignant and telling!

However, Tom Taylor tries too hard to force the reader to understand specifically what types of issues Jon faces and tries to make this a distinction between he and his father. I found this distasteful. While different generations deal with different issues, The Superman Storyline has always been "more about" showcasing the resilience of truth and justice regardless of the problem than the "issue at hand", and that an individual like Superman can always exemplify the principles behind goodness despite what they are facing.

While some will certainly have issues with the revised birth of Jon Kent, I don't necessarily. The issue arises when the reader realizes that the revised birth is used to position Jon Kent as a product of Earth-0 as opposed to an alternate Earth and therefore create a different distinction between him and his father. Jon Kent is born of this planet while Clark is not. I can see why Tom Taylor thought this way, but I don't foresee it being a great plot device for Jon Kent. Hopefully I am wrong.

As I continue to read this series, I hope to see a subtler story being told as opposed to the on-the-nose political and social commentary Taylor is trying to pass as storytelling. There are some gems in this first issue and I hope he runs with those instead. more

The creators took their time to finish this series. You can tell by the intricate, subtle and dynamic content in the last comic. They managed to do what many can't do and tie all of the threads together magnificently to create an appropriate and artistic ending. Rick Remender amazed me with Tokyo Ghost and continues to enchant with his storytelling! Jerome Opena and Matt Hollingsworth beautifully flesh out a fantastical world with intricacy and grace. more