Superman for All Seasons (Superman)

Customer reviews:

Pretty subtle and sparse, 2006-12-28
This is unlike usual Superman comics because it lacks intense plotting, heavyset morality, and striking iconography. Instead, it's a pretty gentle read for people who already like Superman and just want to bask in a subtle homage.

There's very little plot, and even the dialogue is very simple. The whole story is told in a reflective, almost wistful, tone. It's pretty much a portrait of Clark Kent, without spelling everything out for you. The dialogue isn't the sort of thing that will immediately grab you, but it creates a nice sense of character.

The real center of this comic is the art though. Tim Sale tries to capture a distinct mood with his drawing. The panels are big and open, there are loads of panoramic views of landscapes, large, empty fields and rooms, scenes are often drawn from a distance, and even Clark Kent is drawn as quite introverted and passive. Hansen's colours are also really beautiful, he gives the book warmth and a natural sort of look.

Although this is a great comic, I would recommend reading a bit in a bookshop before getting it. It's pretty different, and there's not much to it. But if you like it's gentle, atmospheric style then it's a good comic to have in your collection

Loeb and Sale at their best, 2006-02-09
I became a huge fan of Loeb and Sale since reading their wonderful noiresque work on Batman in The Long Haloween and it's sequel Dark Victory and upon hearing about this book was intrigued to find out their take on Krypton's last son.
Those seeking wall to wall action may be disappointed but make no mistake the depth of character, masterful storytelling and sumptuous artwork is guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.
Loeb and Sale succeed in doing what very few writers who tackle the character are able to do. Make Superman vulnerable and someone a reader can really relate to. It does this by helping us share Clark's growing pains and apprehensions about his powers and their implications (like Smallville but better).
The supporting cast are superbly fleshed out with Lex Luthor, Lois Lane, Lana lang and ol' Pa Jonathan Kent providing narratives for the corresponding seasons.
Despite the book's character driven montage there are some superb set pieces and action sequences and the artwork provides a silver age style nostalgia to a timeless Superman story.

And for this price whether or not to buy this book should not be an issue.