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Superman: Birthright #1-12
Superman: Birthright - The Origin of the Man of Steel
Reweaves the Superman legend incorporating his established history, from escape as an infant from the doomed planet Krypton to arrival as reporter Clark Kent at the Daily Planet.
287 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2003
611 people are currently reading
6007 people want to read
About the author
Mark Waid
3,213 books1,297 followersMark Waid (born March 21, 1962 in Hueytown, Alabama) is an American comic book writer. He is best known for his eight-year run as writer of the DC Comics' title The Flash, as well as his scripting of the limited series Kingdom Come and Superman: Birthright, and his work on Marvel Comics' Captain America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,022 reviews
February 18, 2016
I think it’s safe to say that Mark Waid loves Superman like I love my children. And, I REALLY love my children. So, there’s that.
Look, I’m a Marvel zombie. As a general rule, I’ll take a mediocre Spider-Man book over a good Green Lantern book any day. To trot out a hoary old chestnut that’s not necessarily true anymore, Marvel heroes are human, fallible, and relatable, whereas their DC counterparts are godlike, perfect, and aloof. They’re just more interesting.
But, here comes Waid, his writing cape flapping in the breeze (it’s actually pretty dangerous to wear a cape whilst writing, as they tend to snag on one’s chair, and you often trip over them when getting up to get some coffee…not that I know anything about wearing a cape whilst writing…ahem), giving us a Superman with heart, humor, and *gasp* hipness (well, square hipness). Sure, he’s just as indestructible as ever, physically speaking (notwithstanding that kryptonite is to Superman as daycare germs are to my kiddos), but this is an emotionally vulnerable Clark Kent, a man trying to find his place in the world, navigate a complicated relationship with Pa Kent, and reconcile the fact that, for all of his powers, he just couldn’t save Lex Luthor from going down a very bad path.
A few months ago, I attended a comic con* at which Waid was the Guest of Honor (not sure if we capitalize that sort of accolade, but it feels right, so let’s go with it), and during a panel celebrating Waid’s career, he was asked a question about Superman. And, just like I do on occasion when talking about my kids (because I’m tough), Waid literally broke down into tears talking about how Superman was always there for him through a rough childhood, even going so far as to cite a ridiculous story from the early 60s in which the IRS tries to nail Superman for unpaid taxes for all of the miraculous treasures he has recovered, coal he has turned into diamonds, etc. (side note: I’d like to be reincarnated as a comic writer in the era where one could basically do the gluteal equivalent of kegels while sitting on a typewriter and produce a story someone would publish). The upshot of that ridiculous yet ridiculously touching anecdote was that, at story’s end, the moronic IRS guy’s boss pointed out that Superman doesn’t owe anything because he could make massive deductions by claiming everyone in the U.S. as a dependent because, well, we ALL depend on Superman…just like Waid did as a child.
I’m never going to feel THAT strongly about the Man of Steel (he’s not going to supplant Spidey in my heart anytime soon), but after reading Birthright, I get it. I get why Superman was a life raft for Waid to cling to as a kid. I get how the combination of square-jawed heroism and almost pathological need to engage in do-goodery is appealing to a kid in search of something to believe in. I get how one can get chills just from seeing Big Blue streaking through the sky, and how one might take comfort in knowing that he’s out there, always out there, watching over us all, ready to leap into the fray at the first sign of trouble.
And, now I want to read more Superman stories—a compulsion I’ve never really experienced before. (Suggestions welcome and appreciated, incidentally, Supes fans.) So, well played, Waid.
You know, it occurs to me that I’ve never seen Mark Waid and Superman in the room at the same time. Just sayin’…
4.5 Stars
*At that same con, I also discovered The Perhapanauts, which has proven to be a highly entertaining series. Worth checking out if you’re in the mood for something different.
Look, I’m a Marvel zombie. As a general rule, I’ll take a mediocre Spider-Man book over a good Green Lantern book any day. To trot out a hoary old chestnut that’s not necessarily true anymore, Marvel heroes are human, fallible, and relatable, whereas their DC counterparts are godlike, perfect, and aloof. They’re just more interesting.
But, here comes Waid, his writing cape flapping in the breeze (it’s actually pretty dangerous to wear a cape whilst writing, as they tend to snag on one’s chair, and you often trip over them when getting up to get some coffee…not that I know anything about wearing a cape whilst writing…ahem), giving us a Superman with heart, humor, and *gasp* hipness (well, square hipness). Sure, he’s just as indestructible as ever, physically speaking (notwithstanding that kryptonite is to Superman as daycare germs are to my kiddos), but this is an emotionally vulnerable Clark Kent, a man trying to find his place in the world, navigate a complicated relationship with Pa Kent, and reconcile the fact that, for all of his powers, he just couldn’t save Lex Luthor from going down a very bad path.
A few months ago, I attended a comic con* at which Waid was the Guest of Honor (not sure if we capitalize that sort of accolade, but it feels right, so let’s go with it), and during a panel celebrating Waid’s career, he was asked a question about Superman. And, just like I do on occasion when talking about my kids (because I’m tough), Waid literally broke down into tears talking about how Superman was always there for him through a rough childhood, even going so far as to cite a ridiculous story from the early 60s in which the IRS tries to nail Superman for unpaid taxes for all of the miraculous treasures he has recovered, coal he has turned into diamonds, etc. (side note: I’d like to be reincarnated as a comic writer in the era where one could basically do the gluteal equivalent of kegels while sitting on a typewriter and produce a story someone would publish). The upshot of that ridiculous yet ridiculously touching anecdote was that, at story’s end, the moronic IRS guy’s boss pointed out that Superman doesn’t owe anything because he could make massive deductions by claiming everyone in the U.S. as a dependent because, well, we ALL depend on Superman…just like Waid did as a child.
I’m never going to feel THAT strongly about the Man of Steel (he’s not going to supplant Spidey in my heart anytime soon), but after reading Birthright, I get it. I get why Superman was a life raft for Waid to cling to as a kid. I get how the combination of square-jawed heroism and almost pathological need to engage in do-goodery is appealing to a kid in search of something to believe in. I get how one can get chills just from seeing Big Blue streaking through the sky, and how one might take comfort in knowing that he’s out there, always out there, watching over us all, ready to leap into the fray at the first sign of trouble.
And, now I want to read more Superman stories—a compulsion I’ve never really experienced before. (Suggestions welcome and appreciated, incidentally, Supes fans.) So, well played, Waid.
You know, it occurs to me that I’ve never seen Mark Waid and Superman in the room at the same time. Just sayin’…
4.5 Stars
*At that same con, I also discovered The Perhapanauts, which has proven to be a highly entertaining series. Worth checking out if you’re in the mood for something different.
December 10, 2025
Over 20 years old now, and it holds up.
Waid's origin story for the Man of Steel is still relevant, maybe more relevant now than ever before.
How do you fit in when you stand out?
How much of yourself do you show the world, and how do you make a difference when everyone is so afraid and angry and untrusting?
Without really changing the core of Clark Kent, Mark Waid gives us an updated version of the timeless story of an American alien.
I believe most people are mostly good, given half the chance under normal circumstances.
But it takes a special kind of person to be the kind of good that overlooks the petty, mean parts of others and reaches out to help them anyway. Those people are few and far between. And Superman embodies that kind of person and celebrates their existence.
Lois is a badass and everything that I believe a strong man would want in a woman.
Ma & Pa Kent are adorable. Pa getting flustered and a bit butthurt by Clark wanting to embrace his alien side a bit more was such a realistic look at how fathers and sons sometimes circle around each other without knowing how to hug it out. And I loved the ending scene with his Kryptonian birth parents. That was a nice touch, Waid.
This is a good one, folks. <--my opinion, of course
Highly Recommended.
Waid's origin story for the Man of Steel is still relevant, maybe more relevant now than ever before.
How do you fit in when you stand out?
How much of yourself do you show the world, and how do you make a difference when everyone is so afraid and angry and untrusting?
Without really changing the core of Clark Kent, Mark Waid gives us an updated version of the timeless story of an American alien.
I believe most people are mostly good, given half the chance under normal circumstances.
But it takes a special kind of person to be the kind of good that overlooks the petty, mean parts of others and reaches out to help them anyway. Those people are few and far between. And Superman embodies that kind of person and celebrates their existence.
Lois is a badass and everything that I believe a strong man would want in a woman.
Ma & Pa Kent are adorable. Pa getting flustered and a bit butthurt by Clark wanting to embrace his alien side a bit more was such a realistic look at how fathers and sons sometimes circle around each other without knowing how to hug it out. And I loved the ending scene with his Kryptonian birth parents. That was a nice touch, Waid.
This is a good one, folks. <--my opinion, of course
Highly Recommended.
August 17, 2013
Wow, where do I start? The short review of this book is: Birthright is the ONLY Superman origin book you need to read, it’s the book Mark Waid was born to write, and it is a true literary masterpiece.
That’s the short version. The longer version that will now follow will read like a firebrand preacher babbling on about the Saviour, etc. because reading this book and being an atheist, I had the same reaction and feelings that I imagine religious people do when they hear stories about Jesus or whoever their deity of choice is - that uplifting inspiration that inexplicably chokes you up and makes your heart beat stronger. Yeah, it’s Superman I’m talking about here guys, which might make some of you roll your eyes but he’s more real to me than any world religious figure.
I don’t want to scare any readers off though - if you’re not a devoted Superman fan, this book is hugely accessible and you’re going to have no trouble reading it. Hell, it’s basically written so that anyone wanting to read a Superman book can pick it up without knowing a damn thing about the guy and still getting a lot out of it! But if you love Superman - LOVE Superman - then this book will take pride of place on your bookshelves, to be taken down many times over the years and read again and again.
Basically this is the Superman story we all know - the exodus from Krypton, landing in Kansas where the alien baby is adopted by childless farming couple Jonathan and Martha Kent, becoming Clark, realising his powers, moving to Metropolis, and becoming Superman. It’s the classic origin - but it goes deeper than that. Waid doesn’t simply go through the familiar motions with this character but explains WHY Kal/Clark becomes Superman.
If you’re reading this after watching Man of Steel, there’s a lot here that’ll seem familiar to you - Jonathan telling Clark to hide his powers, that he’ll scare people if they know who he really is. There’s even some lines here that were used in the film like “you’re the answer to ‘are we alone in the universe?’”. However, unlike Man of Steel, Superman isn’t a murderous lunatic flinging his enemies into crowded city blocks with no thought to human life.
Clark leaves high school and goes travelling from then on, spending the next few years traversing the globe, slowly earning credits for his degree in journalism while filing reports wherever he goes. He winds up in an African country where he’s reporting on a tribe that is looking for equal representation in the government run by another tribe, and without getting into particulars, learns why he must put his all of his natural abilities to use, that he can no longer hide, and that one man can make a difference - all this from an ordinary man fighting an insurmountable system. It’s a breathtaking and emotional opening to the book that’s perfectly suited to the story.
From there we see the persona of Clark being developed to hide Kal’s true identity as Superman, we see a beautiful representation of Clark and Jonathan’s relationship in a highly charged emotional scene, Lois is superbly realised and has some fantastic zingers, Superman’s introduction in Metropolis is handled perfectly while Lex Luthor also takes a turn in the spotlight as Waid shows us why Lex became the way he did. He also writes the tragic friendship between Clark and Lex brilliantly. Great Caesar’s Ghost, there’s a lot to talk about! So I’ll stop there because otherwise this’ll go on forever, and just say this:
Reading Superman: Birthright doesn’t just familiarise you with the talking points of Superman’s origins - Waid writes the character in such a way that you understand him totally. You know why he thinks the way he does, you know why he must be Superman, why he does what he does. It’s an origin story that goes beyond treading familiar territory and revitalises the character for a new generation while paying homage to the many creators, writers and artists that worked on the character, going right back to the teenagers who created the Man of Tomorrow, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. This is the old Superman and the new Superman in one flawless representation.
Leinil Yu’s art is great as always, Waid’s writing is perfect - there’s no other word for it, he’s leaving nothing in the tank on this one; Birthright, like I said at the start, is a masterpiece. It’s a truly brilliant comic with no mis-steps, a real emotional core, and a deep and profound understanding and respect of the character that is rarely seen with Superman.
You’ll believe a man can fly - I sure do.
That’s the short version. The longer version that will now follow will read like a firebrand preacher babbling on about the Saviour, etc. because reading this book and being an atheist, I had the same reaction and feelings that I imagine religious people do when they hear stories about Jesus or whoever their deity of choice is - that uplifting inspiration that inexplicably chokes you up and makes your heart beat stronger. Yeah, it’s Superman I’m talking about here guys, which might make some of you roll your eyes but he’s more real to me than any world religious figure.
I don’t want to scare any readers off though - if you’re not a devoted Superman fan, this book is hugely accessible and you’re going to have no trouble reading it. Hell, it’s basically written so that anyone wanting to read a Superman book can pick it up without knowing a damn thing about the guy and still getting a lot out of it! But if you love Superman - LOVE Superman - then this book will take pride of place on your bookshelves, to be taken down many times over the years and read again and again.
Basically this is the Superman story we all know - the exodus from Krypton, landing in Kansas where the alien baby is adopted by childless farming couple Jonathan and Martha Kent, becoming Clark, realising his powers, moving to Metropolis, and becoming Superman. It’s the classic origin - but it goes deeper than that. Waid doesn’t simply go through the familiar motions with this character but explains WHY Kal/Clark becomes Superman.
If you’re reading this after watching Man of Steel, there’s a lot here that’ll seem familiar to you - Jonathan telling Clark to hide his powers, that he’ll scare people if they know who he really is. There’s even some lines here that were used in the film like “you’re the answer to ‘are we alone in the universe?’”. However, unlike Man of Steel, Superman isn’t a murderous lunatic flinging his enemies into crowded city blocks with no thought to human life.
Clark leaves high school and goes travelling from then on, spending the next few years traversing the globe, slowly earning credits for his degree in journalism while filing reports wherever he goes. He winds up in an African country where he’s reporting on a tribe that is looking for equal representation in the government run by another tribe, and without getting into particulars, learns why he must put his all of his natural abilities to use, that he can no longer hide, and that one man can make a difference - all this from an ordinary man fighting an insurmountable system. It’s a breathtaking and emotional opening to the book that’s perfectly suited to the story.
From there we see the persona of Clark being developed to hide Kal’s true identity as Superman, we see a beautiful representation of Clark and Jonathan’s relationship in a highly charged emotional scene, Lois is superbly realised and has some fantastic zingers, Superman’s introduction in Metropolis is handled perfectly while Lex Luthor also takes a turn in the spotlight as Waid shows us why Lex became the way he did. He also writes the tragic friendship between Clark and Lex brilliantly. Great Caesar’s Ghost, there’s a lot to talk about! So I’ll stop there because otherwise this’ll go on forever, and just say this:
Reading Superman: Birthright doesn’t just familiarise you with the talking points of Superman’s origins - Waid writes the character in such a way that you understand him totally. You know why he thinks the way he does, you know why he must be Superman, why he does what he does. It’s an origin story that goes beyond treading familiar territory and revitalises the character for a new generation while paying homage to the many creators, writers and artists that worked on the character, going right back to the teenagers who created the Man of Tomorrow, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. This is the old Superman and the new Superman in one flawless representation.
Leinil Yu’s art is great as always, Waid’s writing is perfect - there’s no other word for it, he’s leaving nothing in the tank on this one; Birthright, like I said at the start, is a masterpiece. It’s a truly brilliant comic with no mis-steps, a real emotional core, and a deep and profound understanding and respect of the character that is rarely seen with Superman.
You’ll believe a man can fly - I sure do.
February 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
Let it be known that this was the book that made me a Superman fan.
This modern retelling of Superman's origin story is everything I never knew I wanted.
Granted, this is my second time reading a Superman solo book, so maybe I'll find better stories(looking at you All Star. The hype is real.) But the fact is, I connected to this story, I smiled, laughed, I even got emotional. Mark Waid takes this invulnerable character and humanizes it in ways I wasn't expecting. At the end, this book is the bittersweet story of a young man who loves this world, but who doesn't belong here. Of a man longing for answers and never quite getting them, but when Clark sees those images of his people wearing the Symbol, he knows what's missing in his life, is the hope that they all brought, is the hope that he wishes to carry on here, because, as a child of Krypton and Earth, that's his mission, his birthright.
Damn did I love this book. The beginning in Krypton, even though is well known, it is still heartbreaking, but how Waid connects both the opening and the ending of this book is beautiful. The first time that we see Clark we're immediately seeing not only the joy and the inspiration he seeks to give everyone he cares about, but his doubts and insecurities too. In the midst of Clark's job, trying to protect, write and learn from Mr. Asuru, a symbol of revolution, protection and equality in Ghana, there are beautiful illustrations of Clark being free. Of Clark, the young man, smiling while flying, laughing while playing with lions and thoughtful while learning about Krypton. It is a great introduction to his characters and it gives a great reason of why he isn't Superman yet.
Throughout the book, we see him finding his own identity, embracing both Kryptonian legacy, but also, always proud of being a child of Smallville, honoring both Jonathan and Martha Kent. And let me tell you, the relationship between that family makes me so damn happy and emotional. What a wonderful dynamic to keep Clark human, in the moments where he's lost or defeated he has his parents there. Also, what a perfect, positive and intimate way to build both Clark's identity, Superman, and his Clark Kent -Daily Planet employee- persona.
Of course, all the classic names are in this title. Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, Perry White and Lex Luthor. What's new and interesting is Lex's introduction to the story, how he met Clark for the first time and their relationship, their parallel and connection. It gave this book another layer of complexity. Luthor was the only person who really understood Clark, who understood his pain of not belonging, of being isolated from everyone else. A pain that's always there, Clark is always the outsider, just as Luthor still is. Great stuff, really.
I don't know if I can keep writing about this book because I plainly loved it. And I don't have the proper words to explain why I loved it so much. Why I connected, why I'm so glad I finally gave this character a chance. It is never too late to appreciate what Superman means. If you haven't read much of this character, I wholeheartedly recommend this title.
Also, can I say how beautiful it was reading this book while listening to the Man of Steel soundtrack? Best thing ever.
Oh man, I just want to go back in time and punch me in the face anytime I thought or said that Superman was boring. READ A FUCKING COMIC BOOK. I would like to yell. Oh well, I'm doing it now and I still have five more Superman titles waiting on my bookshelf and I can't wait to dive into more.
I you plan to read this, here I'm hoping you can appreciate Clark and his journey as much as I did.
Let it be known that this was the book that made me a Superman fan.
This modern retelling of Superman's origin story is everything I never knew I wanted.
Granted, this is my second time reading a Superman solo book, so maybe I'll find better stories
Damn did I love this book. The beginning in Krypton, even though is well known, it is still heartbreaking, but how Waid connects both the opening and the ending of this book is beautiful. The first time that we see Clark we're immediately seeing not only the joy and the inspiration he seeks to give everyone he cares about, but his doubts and insecurities too. In the midst of Clark's job, trying to protect, write and learn from Mr. Asuru, a symbol of revolution, protection and equality in Ghana, there are beautiful illustrations of Clark being free. Of Clark, the young man, smiling while flying, laughing while playing with lions and thoughtful while learning about Krypton. It is a great introduction to his characters and it gives a great reason of why he isn't Superman yet.
Throughout the book, we see him finding his own identity, embracing both Kryptonian legacy, but also, always proud of being a child of Smallville, honoring both Jonathan and Martha Kent. And let me tell you, the relationship between that family makes me so damn happy and emotional. What a wonderful dynamic to keep Clark human, in the moments where he's lost or defeated he has his parents there. Also, what a perfect, positive and intimate way to build both Clark's identity, Superman, and his Clark Kent -Daily Planet employee- persona.
Of course, all the classic names are in this title. Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, Perry White and Lex Luthor. What's new and interesting is Lex's introduction to the story, how he met Clark for the first time and their relationship, their parallel and connection. It gave this book another layer of complexity. Luthor was the only person who really understood Clark, who understood his pain of not belonging, of being isolated from everyone else. A pain that's always there, Clark is always the outsider, just as Luthor still is. Great stuff, really.
I don't know if I can keep writing about this book because I plainly loved it. And I don't have the proper words to explain why I loved it so much. Why I connected, why I'm so glad I finally gave this character a chance. It is never too late to appreciate what Superman means. If you haven't read much of this character, I wholeheartedly recommend this title.
Also, can I say how beautiful it was reading this book while listening to the Man of Steel soundtrack? Best thing ever.
Oh man, I just want to go back in time and punch me in the face anytime I thought or said that Superman was boring. READ A FUCKING COMIC BOOK. I would like to yell. Oh well, I'm doing it now and I still have five more Superman titles waiting on my bookshelf and I can't wait to dive into more.
I you plan to read this, here I'm hoping you can appreciate Clark and his journey as much as I did.
February 19, 2025
The last son of Krypton. Let him never forget.
Superman: Birthright ~~~ Mark Waid
I grew up reading Superman. I loved his stories of truth and honesty and goodness. In “Superman Birthright” we have a story worthy of Superman's greatness. There are some truly great Superman choices out there these days, but for me, 'Birthright is one of the best. It's a must read story if you love Superman. It's a must read story if you want to learn about Superman. And, last but certainly not least, it's a must read story if you just want to read a terrific tale. It's gripping, beautiful and a brilliant revamp of the legendary character's origin story.
Back in 2003, this twelve-issue series served as the new retelling of Kal-El's origin. I know, I know -- we've seen Clark's early years and his path to becoming Superman countless times before, but ‘Birthright’pulls it off masterfully. It's definitely a refreshing change of pace and an excellent way to set him on the right path. Honestly, the only thing that’s not answered here is why Clark Kent has nary a chest hair while Superman’s chest resembles Sean Connery.
Soon Clark heads to Metropolis and Waid does a first-class job creating an engrossing relationship between Superman and Lex Luthor, greatly expanding upon their history and eventual rivalry. Additionally, his take on having Clark's career path with the Daily Planet plays out in an incredibly amusing and somewhat unexpected manner. It's clear Man of Steel drew some inspiration from this storyline.
Waid manages to juggle all of these different plot points quite well, giving this story great pacing and it all builds up to an exciting finale. Then there's the ending. It’s unlike any told in a Superman origin tale so far. It's a strong emotional punch after a series of totally thrilling events and it's truly the perfect way to top off this triumphant retelling of the Superman story.
The artwork delivers on all of these powerful moments Waid's script offers, too. Whether it's a scene driven by an emotional conversation or Superman fighting for his life, the artists beautifully bring these moments to life and make them feel dynamic. The artists do create some legitimately breathtaking and cinematic moments -- everyone involved in the visuals brought their "A" game to this arc.
'Birthright' illustrates why Superman is such an iconic character and someone we should all strive to be like. It's heroic, truly inspiring and I loved reading each and every page of it. If you love Superman, graphic novels, or a great story, do yourself a favor and read this. And if you've already had the luxury of reading it, go ahead and read it again. There's plenty of debate over what the "best" Superman story is -- but 'Birthright' may well be the best of them.
Superman: Birthright ~~~ Mark Waid
I grew up reading Superman. I loved his stories of truth and honesty and goodness. In “Superman Birthright” we have a story worthy of Superman's greatness. There are some truly great Superman choices out there these days, but for me, 'Birthright is one of the best. It's a must read story if you love Superman. It's a must read story if you want to learn about Superman. And, last but certainly not least, it's a must read story if you just want to read a terrific tale. It's gripping, beautiful and a brilliant revamp of the legendary character's origin story.
Back in 2003, this twelve-issue series served as the new retelling of Kal-El's origin. I know, I know -- we've seen Clark's early years and his path to becoming Superman countless times before, but ‘Birthright’pulls it off masterfully. It's definitely a refreshing change of pace and an excellent way to set him on the right path. Honestly, the only thing that’s not answered here is why Clark Kent has nary a chest hair while Superman’s chest resembles Sean Connery.
Soon Clark heads to Metropolis and Waid does a first-class job creating an engrossing relationship between Superman and Lex Luthor, greatly expanding upon their history and eventual rivalry. Additionally, his take on having Clark's career path with the Daily Planet plays out in an incredibly amusing and somewhat unexpected manner. It's clear Man of Steel drew some inspiration from this storyline.
Waid manages to juggle all of these different plot points quite well, giving this story great pacing and it all builds up to an exciting finale. Then there's the ending. It’s unlike any told in a Superman origin tale so far. It's a strong emotional punch after a series of totally thrilling events and it's truly the perfect way to top off this triumphant retelling of the Superman story.
The artwork delivers on all of these powerful moments Waid's script offers, too. Whether it's a scene driven by an emotional conversation or Superman fighting for his life, the artists beautifully bring these moments to life and make them feel dynamic. The artists do create some legitimately breathtaking and cinematic moments -- everyone involved in the visuals brought their "A" game to this arc.
'Birthright' illustrates why Superman is such an iconic character and someone we should all strive to be like. It's heroic, truly inspiring and I loved reading each and every page of it. If you love Superman, graphic novels, or a great story, do yourself a favor and read this. And if you've already had the luxury of reading it, go ahead and read it again. There's plenty of debate over what the "best" Superman story is -- but 'Birthright' may well be the best of them.
October 21, 2016
A superman origin story, and a very good one, fleshing out what you already knew, maybe, with some interesting twists, such as that Lex Luthor at one point knows more about Superman than Clark himself does, using this info against him in an epic Metropolis take-over attempt. It actually early on has a scene in Africa, with some social justice background for Superman's future work as journalist and superhero. We get to see background on how Luthor got to be the way he is, too; they were once sorta friends, then the arrogant super tech/science Lex turns. . . even more arrogant and power-hungry and vindictive against Supes.
It's sort of--just a little--like the Batman-Joker story in that both are remarkable, talented, isolated, and they are the way they are because of their upbringing. One turns dark, another light. We get to establish a solid Lois relationship which is always pleasant. Many of the other characters are sort of annoying: Perry, Mom and Dad Kent, the whole office, basically.
But I think it's really good, a really well written story from Waid and I thought the art was great. Some of the full pages are especially and dramatically impressive. If you want to read one Superman comic, this has got to be one of the best.
It's sort of--just a little--like the Batman-Joker story in that both are remarkable, talented, isolated, and they are the way they are because of their upbringing. One turns dark, another light. We get to establish a solid Lois relationship which is always pleasant. Many of the other characters are sort of annoying: Perry, Mom and Dad Kent, the whole office, basically.
But I think it's really good, a really well written story from Waid and I thought the art was great. Some of the full pages are especially and dramatically impressive. If you want to read one Superman comic, this has got to be one of the best.
January 5, 2026
The origins brought together
This has been one of my favourite origin stories of Superman. I am old enough to remember the first movie staring at Christopher Reeves. This book is right up there what that movie.
Bring a continuity lover. I love that they took elements of Smallville and other tv series and managed as well as staying true to the core comic material.
I much prefer Lex as a ruthless villain to the more likeable character he played in Smallville. I like how they explained Clark/Superman being more worldly. I really liked what how they explained Clark's "disguise" it made much more sense. As well as his reasons for not wearing a mask. I also liked the reason for Clark's attraction to Lois Lane.
I love Leinil Yu's artwork from the first time I saw it in a Wolverine comic. I love everything about this book, even a bit of the full circle at the end. Always the mark of a 5 star book is as soon as it was finished. I want more! I would love another book in this universe I the there are a couple of plot lines left to tie up.
This has been one of my favourite origin stories of Superman. I am old enough to remember the first movie staring at Christopher Reeves. This book is right up there what that movie.
Bring a continuity lover. I love that they took elements of Smallville and other tv series and managed as well as staying true to the core comic material.
I much prefer Lex as a ruthless villain to the more likeable character he played in Smallville. I like how they explained Clark/Superman being more worldly. I really liked what how they explained Clark's "disguise" it made much more sense. As well as his reasons for not wearing a mask. I also liked the reason for Clark's attraction to Lois Lane.
I love Leinil Yu's artwork from the first time I saw it in a Wolverine comic. I love everything about this book, even a bit of the full circle at the end. Always the mark of a 5 star book is as soon as it was finished. I want more! I would love another book in this universe I the there are a couple of plot lines left to tie up.
February 13, 2017
There were some creative changes I dug - like Clark Kent being an established reporter long before Superman came into Metropolis and the journalist donned his hat at the daily planet. This makes more sense of him passing his dual personas off without people catching on. His parents help him make the costume, even with a joke about the glasses not fooling anyone.
I like the connection with both parents living and the e-mails back and forth through the crisis's in The Daily Planet. After the intro of the book where Clark as a journalist finds other heroes in human form in Africa, he comes home for awhile to face some issues with his parents. It gave credibility to the story and their relationship.
I liked the prominent Daily Planet setting, Lois's character, Jimmy, Perry White. I enjoyed Lex was focused on quite a bit but I found a lot of that part rushed. I do like how they made Superman into a 'powerful Superman version' - some wimp him down a bit.
I disliked him not knowing his origins, no fortress, and the rushed feel with the main story-line. It makes sense the city wouldn't trust him fully at first, but the story started losing me a bit after awhile. I also didn't like the whole hack into Krypton thing, just felt weird for me. Lex felt a little hokey.
The art was great, I liked so much focus on heat vision. They captured most of what makes Superman Superman and Clark Clark. Anyone catch the little Batman figurine in one panel when he's in his room? Awesome. There's a little humor too - love the wink he gives Lois as a nod from the movies when they meet, and the Africa selfies e-mailed home to mom.
It's always interesting to see different interpretations of Superman's beginnings - this one took some risks, working with some of them but not pleasing me with others.
August 17, 2016
Definitely my new favorite Supe's origin (ever-so slightly ahead of Superman: Earth One, Vol. 1).
So here's the rundown. Luthor knows more about Superman's origins than he does.
And he proceeds to go out of his way to use all of this knowledge against Superman. It's actually quite genius. But just when everyone thinks Superman is going to throw in the towel?
Of course he has a little help from his greatest friend/admirer.
My favorite part was probably Perry's list of reasons to keep or fire Lois.
Well done, Mr. Waid. Well done.
So here's the rundown. Luthor knows more about Superman's origins than he does.
And he proceeds to go out of his way to use all of this knowledge against Superman. It's actually quite genius. But just when everyone thinks Superman is going to throw in the towel?
Of course he has a little help from his greatest friend/admirer.
My favorite part was probably Perry's list of reasons to keep or fire Lois.
Well done, Mr. Waid. Well done.
October 11, 2025
this was excellent, oh my god. just no notes. 10/10 🙂↔️🚬
as you might've noticed, i've been obsessed with superman lately. i got into it after watching the movie back in july, and i'm slowly getting through the comics; this one's my fave so far. it captures perfectly clark's loneliness, doubts, and his fight as superman to make people understand he's no threat; lex's twisted backstory and (honestly) depressing motives; and lois's stubbornness and courage. plus, the art is so vivid it makes you feel everything these characters are feeling as if you were right there.
as you might've noticed, i've been obsessed with superman lately. i got into it after watching the movie back in july, and i'm slowly getting through the comics; this one's my fave so far. it captures perfectly clark's loneliness, doubts, and his fight as superman to make people understand he's no threat; lex's twisted backstory and (honestly) depressing motives; and lois's stubbornness and courage. plus, the art is so vivid it makes you feel everything these characters are feeling as if you were right there.
“You watch what happens the next time someone tries to co-opt that symbol. People know now, it stands for courage. It stands for hope. It stands for Superman.”
March 11, 2021
After my disappointment with
Superman: Earth One, Volume One
, I felt the need to revisit other titles featuring the Man of Steel and what better way than to reread Superman: Birthright by Mark Waid and Leinil Francis Yu. I have previously discussed in a number of reviews about creators’ fascination at reinterpreting Superman’s origin and despite terrific revamps by Mark Millar and Geoff Johns, Mark Waid – who has written many superheroes for DC and Marvel – shows he has the biggest fanboy hard-on towards the OG American superhero.
Showcasing his origin and updating him for the 21st century, Clark Kent decides to do something useful with his powers, having been inspired by the heroism within a West African conflict. Arriving into Metropolis as a mild-mannered reporter for the Daily Planet, Clark begins his career as a superhero as he must learn tough lessons including his friend-turned-enemy Lex Luthor and his alien heritage.
There are many Superman comics that can apply to newcomers, however Birthright feels like a definitive introduction for anyone who would like to start reading the Man of Steel. As a retelling of the origin, it certainly ticks the boxes, such as the destruction of Krypton, Clark’s upbringing in Smallville, his arrival as both journalist and superhero, as well as the introduction of his arch-nemesis Lex Luthor. However in twelve issues, Waid takes the classic tropes of what is essentially an old-fashioned character and rejiggers them in a way that would fit nicely in the context of our current century such as Metropolis being monitored by surveillance drones, evoking our post-9/11 fears of terrorism.
As much as Superman has always fought for truth, justice and the American way, Waid establishes him as a citizen of the world with West Africa being a key part into why Clark would want to save people, as well as realising that he cannot save everyone. Amidst the super-heroics and science-fiction, Waid’s greatest strength as a writer is the organic characterisation throughout, whether it is Jonathan Kent’s fatherly fear of his alien son being exposed or Clark’s rocky childhood friendship with Luthor which perhaps was the cause for the latter’s villainy.
Known for his art style that is described as "Dynamic Pseudo-Realism", Leinil Francis Yu is not an obvious artist to draw Superman and yet he brings a modernity to the character and his supporting cast. With Yu primarily drawing in wide panels, you get the sense of cinematic scope from Superman interacting with the streets of Metropolis to the other-worldly technology of Krypton.
Much to Waid’s displeasure towards Man of Steel, Zack Snyder’s film (and no doubt its upcoming sequel) was influenced by Birthright which in its twelve-issue narrative tells a definitive version of Superman’s origin with such warmth and humanity.
Showcasing his origin and updating him for the 21st century, Clark Kent decides to do something useful with his powers, having been inspired by the heroism within a West African conflict. Arriving into Metropolis as a mild-mannered reporter for the Daily Planet, Clark begins his career as a superhero as he must learn tough lessons including his friend-turned-enemy Lex Luthor and his alien heritage.
There are many Superman comics that can apply to newcomers, however Birthright feels like a definitive introduction for anyone who would like to start reading the Man of Steel. As a retelling of the origin, it certainly ticks the boxes, such as the destruction of Krypton, Clark’s upbringing in Smallville, his arrival as both journalist and superhero, as well as the introduction of his arch-nemesis Lex Luthor. However in twelve issues, Waid takes the classic tropes of what is essentially an old-fashioned character and rejiggers them in a way that would fit nicely in the context of our current century such as Metropolis being monitored by surveillance drones, evoking our post-9/11 fears of terrorism.
As much as Superman has always fought for truth, justice and the American way, Waid establishes him as a citizen of the world with West Africa being a key part into why Clark would want to save people, as well as realising that he cannot save everyone. Amidst the super-heroics and science-fiction, Waid’s greatest strength as a writer is the organic characterisation throughout, whether it is Jonathan Kent’s fatherly fear of his alien son being exposed or Clark’s rocky childhood friendship with Luthor which perhaps was the cause for the latter’s villainy.
Known for his art style that is described as "Dynamic Pseudo-Realism", Leinil Francis Yu is not an obvious artist to draw Superman and yet he brings a modernity to the character and his supporting cast. With Yu primarily drawing in wide panels, you get the sense of cinematic scope from Superman interacting with the streets of Metropolis to the other-worldly technology of Krypton.
Much to Waid’s displeasure towards Man of Steel, Zack Snyder’s film (and no doubt its upcoming sequel) was influenced by Birthright which in its twelve-issue narrative tells a definitive version of Superman’s origin with such warmth and humanity.
December 24, 2015
"Here it is, the support group for people who hate fictional characters."
I walk in, sit down, and patiently wait my turn.
This is your first time here, right? Why don't you stand up and introduce yourself.
"Hi I'm Terence and I hate a fictional character."
Hi Terence the group says in unison.
"Hi, so the fictional character I hate is Superman."
Gasps, shocked faces, and the rustling sound of people sucking air sharply through their teeth is all I hear.
"Oh come on I can't be the only one. I mean yes you feel for old Kal-El when his parents send him away to save his life as a baby, but after that it's all downhill with Mr. Perfect."
The group stands up and file out of the room as though I said the place was rigged to blow.
"I mean come on, his disguise is glasses and a slumped posture. For all the technology available in the comics, facial recognition software apparently isn't one of them."
Superman: Birthright was touted to me as the best of the best Superman comics. Unfortunately I am predisposed to
September 10, 2019
One of the best origin stories of Superman I've read, maybe The Best. Beautifully written, thoughtfully characterized and intricately detailed updated origin of Man of Steel appropriate for the 21st century. With proper amount of cynicism and fear reflected from the people when Superman showed up, which is a realistic take for this post-9/11 modern world if ever a superpowered alien suddenly came zipping through our sky. Contrastingly we get a perfect idea of why Superman is the icon of hope and optimism, and why it is sorely needed now more than ever... as even in the face of overwhelming odds and negativity from everyone and all the fucked up situations, he never loses hope in people and in himself. As the man himself said, "Like hell!"
I once again wholeheartedly understood why Mark Waid is one of the great comic-writers of the last 15 years, he was the ideal man to perfectly recreate yet another origin story for Superman, bringing something new to the table, which not only feels fresh but also makes it relevant and stand out as undoubtedly one of the all-time greatest iterations of Clark Kent as Superman in his 50+ years of publication legacy.
9.5 out of 10.
I once again wholeheartedly understood why Mark Waid is one of the great comic-writers of the last 15 years, he was the ideal man to perfectly recreate yet another origin story for Superman, bringing something new to the table, which not only feels fresh but also makes it relevant and stand out as undoubtedly one of the all-time greatest iterations of Clark Kent as Superman in his 50+ years of publication legacy.
9.5 out of 10.
March 26, 2022
A book that's a fraction away from being four stars if wasn't for the sections that can only be described as boring. There's a lot of good stuff here, ranging from some fantastic artistic choices and a portrayal that wonderfully captures who The Man of Steel is. It manages to add in every Superman story cliché in a way that works, especially since it's an introduction to a character who's received more than his fair share of origin stories.
April 3, 2018
Mark Waid's classic graphic novel was an attempt to update Superman's origin for a modern audience, and it's considered one of the best Superman stories and the definitive origin tale. It was even used as inspiration for Zack Snyder's Man of Steel movie. And reading it, you can totally see the influences. But I wasn't as smitten with this book as many others were. I found it a bit plodding and at times, actually boring, which is a real crime for a superhero book. I really disliked the art as well, not only ugly in it's detailing and awkward in it's rendering of action, but also failing to provide the sort of iconic imagery that one would imagine would fill a story about the Man of Tomorrow coming to Metropolis. But what I did like was some of the character work on Lex Luthor, which detaile some of his origin as well, and showed what makes him such a great villain in a super-powered world. And the climactic moments in the last act were fairly well done. But overall, I expected much more! But why they hired this artist to work on a Superman book, I'll never understand...
November 23, 2016
You'll believe a man can fly
When Mark Waid writes at his best, he is one of the best authors in the comics industry.
This 12 issues retelling of the Man of Steel origin is a real masterwork, a well done reboot for the new generations of readers and diehard fans too.
All classic characters and storyline elements are here (escape from dying Krypton, growing in Smallville, Pa and Ma Kent, Lex Luthor, Perry White, Jim(my) Olsen and Lois Lane) with some twists that make Waid's origin tale his tale: no more Fortress of Solitude (but you hardly notice that), Clark and Lex younghood friends like in "Smallville" tv series, and Clark Kent's persona being made by his experiences in a war torn Africa.
Waid took for good Bill's wise words in "Kill Bill: part 2" monologue, the element that made Siegel & Shuster's character so unique:
Superman is the mankind's champion who Pa and Ma Kent raised him to be, Clark is a disguise, a fabrication to make him accepted by his peers.
And thanks to Waid's storytelling the alien who fell from the sky never been so human: you can almost feel his falling in love to Lois here.
Leinil Yu's art is great too, but you can really feel here all Mark Waid's love for Superman.
One of the best origin stories and comics ever. And I tell this as more a Marvel zombie than a DC fan.
April 12, 2013
There is a little over a decade of comic book writing I need to catch up on. I loved comics and collected religiously from my early teens to my mid-twenties, then I drifted away from comics for a long time. Only now, now that my kids are discovering comics, have I found my way back to this world I love so deeply, and now that I am back in comic book land, I get to come to fantastic works I missed out on the first time around. Enter Superman: Birthright.
With the possible exceptions of Batman, Spider-Man and the Hulk, Superman has the most well known origin story. Even those who've never read a comic or seen a superhero movie are likely to know the origin of Superman. They know he is the last son of Krypton (even if they've never heard of Jor-el). They know he was adopted by a childless farming couple in the American prairies (even if they don't know it's in Smallville, Iowa). They know that he goes to the big city and hides his alien identity behind a pair of glasses and a bumbling demeanour (even if they don't know he is a jornalist named Clark Kent and that the city is Metropolis). They know he is the most powerful being on Earth.
We all know these things because it has been told and retold countless times, in comics, in cartoons, in multiple movies, in multiple television shows, in dime-store novels; we know these things because they have become the target of satire or criticism or celebration in sit-coms, comedies, plays, academic theses and even literary works.
So with that level of cultural saturation -- a saturation that goes well beyond the comic nerd sphere of influence -- how in the Multiverse can anything new be brought to the generative myth of Superman? Much to my surprise, very easily and with excellence.
The key is in the recognition, which has since become an integral part of Superman's existence, that no one on Earth would be too pleased with a sublimely powerful, indestructible alien wandering around doing good deeds. Superman / Clark Kent / Kal-el is simply not welcome around these parts. No matter how much good he does, he can be either a potential enemy to us all or an unwelcome deus ex machina who can only make our decisions -- even our destructive decisions -- meaningless because he has the potential to correct them and save us, against our will, from ourselves.
It seems like a small thing, perhaps, but it is far removed from the dazzling Superman, the perfectly good and beloved Superman, the completely accepted Superman, who existed from his creation to the Christopher Reeve films and beyond. He was the Superman that only the "bad guys" would fear because if you were a good guy you'd have nothing to fear from the Last Son of Krypton. But that's not the world we live in now. We live in a world of chronic xenophobia, paranoia and insecurity, and there is nothing secure about a super-alien who can do damn near anything.
In Birthright, Mark Waid recognizes the truth about Superman's near omnipotence, and he expresses it through the two most important human men in Superman's life: Pa Kent and Lex Luthor. The former tries to warn Superman of humanity's fears and convince his son to stay hidden and avoid conflict. The latter embodies humanity's paranoia, only ramped up to the levels that only a mad ultra-genius could attain, putting Luthor in a position to make a power grab using the best possible tool -- Superman himself.
Details of Luthor's power grab aside, Pa winds up being correct, and the world is not happy about the rise of Superman, even less so when Lex Luthor's plans come to fruition, and nothing Superman does to thwart Luthor's plans for domination can overcome the damage done to his own trustworthiness at the hands of his greatest enemy (a man/boy with whom Clark Kent was once a friend).
It's powerful, it's refreshing, and it leads seamlessly into this summer's newest expression of the Superman origin in the Man of Steel. We've heard Kevin Costner's Pa telling Clark that maybe he should have let others die to remain hidden. Some have been appalled by that idea, but the idea was Waid's and for a legion of comic book fans who prefer to have their superheroes in a world like our own, it is an embracing of verisimilitude that will make Superman relevant once again. And no matter how good the movie is, Birthright already exists and has done the job for nerds everywhere.
Yep ... we'll always have Birthright, but wouldn't it be wonderful if Man of Steel was excellent too?.
With the possible exceptions of Batman, Spider-Man and the Hulk, Superman has the most well known origin story. Even those who've never read a comic or seen a superhero movie are likely to know the origin of Superman. They know he is the last son of Krypton (even if they've never heard of Jor-el). They know he was adopted by a childless farming couple in the American prairies (even if they don't know it's in Smallville, Iowa). They know that he goes to the big city and hides his alien identity behind a pair of glasses and a bumbling demeanour (even if they don't know he is a jornalist named Clark Kent and that the city is Metropolis). They know he is the most powerful being on Earth.
We all know these things because it has been told and retold countless times, in comics, in cartoons, in multiple movies, in multiple television shows, in dime-store novels; we know these things because they have become the target of satire or criticism or celebration in sit-coms, comedies, plays, academic theses and even literary works.
So with that level of cultural saturation -- a saturation that goes well beyond the comic nerd sphere of influence -- how in the Multiverse can anything new be brought to the generative myth of Superman? Much to my surprise, very easily and with excellence.
The key is in the recognition, which has since become an integral part of Superman's existence, that no one on Earth would be too pleased with a sublimely powerful, indestructible alien wandering around doing good deeds. Superman / Clark Kent / Kal-el is simply not welcome around these parts. No matter how much good he does, he can be either a potential enemy to us all or an unwelcome deus ex machina who can only make our decisions -- even our destructive decisions -- meaningless because he has the potential to correct them and save us, against our will, from ourselves.
It seems like a small thing, perhaps, but it is far removed from the dazzling Superman, the perfectly good and beloved Superman, the completely accepted Superman, who existed from his creation to the Christopher Reeve films and beyond. He was the Superman that only the "bad guys" would fear because if you were a good guy you'd have nothing to fear from the Last Son of Krypton. But that's not the world we live in now. We live in a world of chronic xenophobia, paranoia and insecurity, and there is nothing secure about a super-alien who can do damn near anything.
In Birthright, Mark Waid recognizes the truth about Superman's near omnipotence, and he expresses it through the two most important human men in Superman's life: Pa Kent and Lex Luthor. The former tries to warn Superman of humanity's fears and convince his son to stay hidden and avoid conflict. The latter embodies humanity's paranoia, only ramped up to the levels that only a mad ultra-genius could attain, putting Luthor in a position to make a power grab using the best possible tool -- Superman himself.
Details of Luthor's power grab aside, Pa winds up being correct, and the world is not happy about the rise of Superman, even less so when Lex Luthor's plans come to fruition, and nothing Superman does to thwart Luthor's plans for domination can overcome the damage done to his own trustworthiness at the hands of his greatest enemy (a man/boy with whom Clark Kent was once a friend).
It's powerful, it's refreshing, and it leads seamlessly into this summer's newest expression of the Superman origin in the Man of Steel. We've heard Kevin Costner's Pa telling Clark that maybe he should have let others die to remain hidden. Some have been appalled by that idea, but the idea was Waid's and for a legion of comic book fans who prefer to have their superheroes in a world like our own, it is an embracing of verisimilitude that will make Superman relevant once again. And no matter how good the movie is, Birthright already exists and has done the job for nerds everywhere.
Yep ... we'll always have Birthright, but wouldn't it be wonderful if Man of Steel was excellent too?.
July 17, 2013
Let me clear all the baggage out of the way in one bold claim: this is the best Superman story I have ever read, period. End of story. Sure, Geoff Johns wrote a pretty solid reimagining of Superman with Superman: Secret Origin and I've been told the Grant Morrison Action Comics, Vol. 1: Superman and the Men of Steel is meant to be grand but I don't care, I've encountered Mark Waid's vision and it is amazing.
For those who are new or have no clue in regard to the world of graphic novels, comic books and basic drawn superhero lore let me explain one quick thing. Superman: Birthright was part of the inspiration behind the recent Man of Steel movie. At least, most of the good ideas in that film were based on some of the breathtaking imagery and storytelling in this work of fiction.
To put it simply this is a fantastically amazing artwork. Not only are the pencilling and the inking jobs top class, but the plotting and story itself are so composed. There is a brilliant balance between the sheer joy of Clark Kent existing as Superman and Clark Kent; a wonderful retelling of the Superman legend; and also a further balance between subtlety, dialogue and melodrama. In short it is a work of brilliance.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ SUPERMAN BIRTHRIGHT
MARK WAID'S REVIEW OF MAN OF STEEL
In short, if you are any kind of a fan of Superman, do yourself a favour and get yourself a copy of this. Better yet, do what I did and buy it. It should only be around 20 dollars or so if you go to right place and in my view it was 20 dollars well spent.
August 11, 2016
This is a great book for someone who's never read Superman before.
This book goes through Clark first starting his Superman persona and getting the city to learn who he is (and what he stands for). Watching Superman save people, go head to head with Luther, and of course dealing with the inner turmoil of who he is and what he should do. It has all the elements to make it one of the best comics ever.
Except I read better Superman stories this year. Both had a deeper look into life as Clark. Both had broader look into both Superman and Clark. Both leave you with questions yet satisfaction. This story leaves you with satisfaction but it feels very safe. Very very very safe.
The art is also a bit on the mixed side. The backgrounds, some fights, and certain emotions are all well drawn. But a lot of time everyone looks like they're ready to take a shit. It's a odd design and something I couldn't get over.
So it's a solid book for first time Superman readers, but there is better.
This book goes through Clark first starting his Superman persona and getting the city to learn who he is (and what he stands for). Watching Superman save people, go head to head with Luther, and of course dealing with the inner turmoil of who he is and what he should do. It has all the elements to make it one of the best comics ever.
Except I read better Superman stories this year. Both had a deeper look into life as Clark. Both had broader look into both Superman and Clark. Both leave you with questions yet satisfaction. This story leaves you with satisfaction but it feels very safe. Very very very safe.
The art is also a bit on the mixed side. The backgrounds, some fights, and certain emotions are all well drawn. But a lot of time everyone looks like they're ready to take a shit. It's a odd design and something I couldn't get over.
So it's a solid book for first time Superman readers, but there is better.
October 9, 2021
This was a retelling of the origins of Superman and its pretty well done!
It starts with Superman in his 20s visiting some African village and seeing the revolution there and trying to report on it and the tribal battles and politics of it all and like how it inspires him to do more with his power, returning to Smallville and then becoming Superman and then reconciling his differences with his dad and mom and I really liked that aspect of it!
Plus the arrival in Metropolis and how he meets others including Lois, Jimmy and Perry and then we see the past friendship he had with Lex and that was a weird and strange retcon but really well done and builts up Lex so much! I love how Waid takes time to explore the genius and how that leads to frustration and all and how Lex becomes the man he is today and the plan he pulls off to make people distrust Superman is something!
Its an epic battle between two arch foes and its excellent the way its done and shows both as they are, opposites of each other and ends on a perfect note with Lois and Clark and the arrival of Superman!
Its a good volume with great twists and turns and does such a good job on increasing motivations and what not and expands on relationships and characters and is like one of the best Superman origin stories!
It starts with Superman in his 20s visiting some African village and seeing the revolution there and trying to report on it and the tribal battles and politics of it all and like how it inspires him to do more with his power, returning to Smallville and then becoming Superman and then reconciling his differences with his dad and mom and I really liked that aspect of it!
Plus the arrival in Metropolis and how he meets others including Lois, Jimmy and Perry and then we see the past friendship he had with Lex and that was a weird and strange retcon but really well done and builts up Lex so much! I love how Waid takes time to explore the genius and how that leads to frustration and all and how Lex becomes the man he is today and the plan he pulls off to make people distrust Superman is something!
Its an epic battle between two arch foes and its excellent the way its done and shows both as they are, opposites of each other and ends on a perfect note with Lois and Clark and the arrival of Superman!
Its a good volume with great twists and turns and does such a good job on increasing motivations and what not and expands on relationships and characters and is like one of the best Superman origin stories!
November 24, 2017
Wow, ANOTHER Superman origin story, because we really need one of these don't we.
I just don't get it. Superman's origin is boring AF. Why keep reimagining it, when instead like All-Star superman the writer could expand on his current universe. Yes we fucking know he's from a planet called Krypton that blew up. There are starving children in undeveloped countries that probably know that.
Why keep boring us with this same material. Here is a list of just some of the retellings of supermans' origin with twists and turns.
Superman Earth one
Superman: Secret Origin
Superman for all seasons
Superman Red son
The Man of Steel
Superman Secret Identity
Superman Action Comics - Men Of steel
Action Comics - New 52
Superman Birthright
Superman: Last Son of Krypton
Is there anything better than All-Star superman? I enjoyed Superman unchained, but even that wasn't as good.
I just don't get it. Superman's origin is boring AF. Why keep reimagining it, when instead like All-Star superman the writer could expand on his current universe. Yes we fucking know he's from a planet called Krypton that blew up. There are starving children in undeveloped countries that probably know that.
Why keep boring us with this same material. Here is a list of just some of the retellings of supermans' origin with twists and turns.
Superman Earth one
Superman: Secret Origin
Superman for all seasons
Superman Red son
The Man of Steel
Superman Secret Identity
Superman Action Comics - Men Of steel
Action Comics - New 52
Superman Birthright
Superman: Last Son of Krypton
Is there anything better than All-Star superman? I enjoyed Superman unchained, but even that wasn't as good.
May 9, 2016
Superman Birthright is a Mark Waid retelling of the Superman origin story. In a 12 issue series it starts with the destruction of Krypton. Though mostly the same as in other Superman origin stories, it has subtle differences. Then the story jumps to Clark Kent on Earth. He is now in his 20's and a reporter, covering some African backwater ethnic conflict. During this reporting he gets the idea to "do something" to help others. The story then goes through with him returning to Smallville to enlist Ma and Pa Kent to help. Again, very similar but with subtle differences- Ma Kent is a UFO consipracy theorist (though to be fair, I guess you really can't blame her) and Pa Kent is much more of an emotional whiny old man. The rest of the story is Superman introducing himself to the world and fighting Lex Luthor.
When I started this story I didn't think I liked it very much. But as I continued it began to grow on me. Mark Waids' Luthor isn't just sociopathic but also so supremely arrogant he is unable to interact with most humanity. The only person who is consistently likeable, to me, was Superman. Everyone else is in one way or another- annoying, bitchy or just "off". Perhaps it's a subtle way of showing us how good Superman is. I don't know. Lois Lane comes off as a supremely stuck up bitch, Lex Luthor is a sociopath with Asperger's Syndrome, Ma Kent a loon, Pa Kent overly emotional and stomps around with hurt feelings, etc. That was what I didn't like, but Waid's Superman is truly interesting. He has taken the standard origin and made it into something uniquely HIS. By the end of the story I appreciated Waid's take. The same went for the art. I didn't really know if I liked it or didn't. But as the Story progressed it grew on me. The artwork is expressive, yet in a soft style. It never is very detailed, but there is a lot going on. Some of the splash pages are indeed impressive.
While this may irk some of the traditional Superman fans- I think the new take on his origin, his relationship with Lex, his relationship with the people of Earth and Metropolis are all rather interesting. A good read for people looking for a new look at Superman.
When I started this story I didn't think I liked it very much. But as I continued it began to grow on me. Mark Waids' Luthor isn't just sociopathic but also so supremely arrogant he is unable to interact with most humanity. The only person who is consistently likeable, to me, was Superman. Everyone else is in one way or another- annoying, bitchy or just "off". Perhaps it's a subtle way of showing us how good Superman is. I don't know. Lois Lane comes off as a supremely stuck up bitch, Lex Luthor is a sociopath with Asperger's Syndrome, Ma Kent a loon, Pa Kent overly emotional and stomps around with hurt feelings, etc. That was what I didn't like, but Waid's Superman is truly interesting. He has taken the standard origin and made it into something uniquely HIS. By the end of the story I appreciated Waid's take. The same went for the art. I didn't really know if I liked it or didn't. But as the Story progressed it grew on me. The artwork is expressive, yet in a soft style. It never is very detailed, but there is a lot going on. Some of the splash pages are indeed impressive.
While this may irk some of the traditional Superman fans- I think the new take on his origin, his relationship with Lex, his relationship with the people of Earth and Metropolis are all rather interesting. A good read for people looking for a new look at Superman.
September 8, 2015
Good. Not my favorite Superman origins book but still good.
March 24, 2016
I Still don't get how metropolis cant tell that Clark Kent is Superman. I mean, he is not even wearing a mask or something, just a pair of glasses and suits. Still a great read, nonetheless.
April 18, 2020
It was a modern day retelling of Superman's origin set during the modern time well modern time circa 2003 so not to modern as it's 2019 now and the updated time is already 16 years past but still a fun fun read and it was fun read about Supes start in the modern times and we have almost all the major points like his journey as a secret superhero, his initial journey to earth, his search for his truth, creation of his dress, Louis Lane, Jim, Mr. White, Lex Luthor etc. and this deals with Clark's search for the way to use his powers for good and he tries to do that in Metropolis but he has Lex Luthor in his path who does his best to discredit Superman. And it was lotsa fun.
I have always loved comics, and I hope that I will always love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics or Diamond Comics or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on the international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I can. I Love comics to bit, may comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
I have always loved comics, and I hope that I will always love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics or Diamond Comics or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on the international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I can. I Love comics to bit, may comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
October 14, 2013
Another Superman Origin story, after Secret Identity, which I tremendously enjoyed. Mark Waid's Birthright is a very solid reboot for the 21st Century/Post 9-11/Terrorism Age. This Superman isn't accepted right off the bat, people aren't sure what to make, and it's there that Lex Luthor takes full advantage to try and destroy Superman before he really gets started.
This is great because it has Superman/Clark admit fully that while he can read fast, Lex is a genius of unparalleled levels. This is a Superman where Ma and Pa Kent are just different enough to have come from this century, not the 1930s. Ma Kent likes to study UFOs and the cosmos (in order to try and better understand her adoptive son) and Pa Kent isn't nearly the wise stoic man he is in most treatments, which is a nice change.
This includes Lex's connection to Smallville, and to Clark, but the beauty here is to show how and why they connected as well as they did in high school.
This also plays up Clark's interest in truth, justice, and bettering of the WORLD...not the AMERICAN WAY...It shows his travels across the world, learning, searching, discovering what he can about the world in order to try and better understand himself (much like most young people do). What's great is that he comes very close to humanity while being an alien.
There's also more hints of angry Superman, with panels of red glowing eyes and a black shadow, which I love to see. I hate when Superman isn't used to his full potential, and when they try to pretend that he's above emotional outbursts (which never makes sense, given that he was raised human, he's going to have human emotions, he's not a robot).
There's also a great part when he confronts a gun store owner who's sold guns to 2 teens who went to shoot up their school:
'I saw a 9 year old girl today wailing because she had a gun fired at her, and it will haunt her forever'
Then we see the gun fire towards the man, and his facial reaction of sheer terror, before Superman catches the bullet and says: 'Now you'll get to live with that same feeling.'
I LOVE IT. The Superman of too many people would just tie him up and leave him for the cops, but this one goes more dark on him, and I love Mark Waid for doing that.
I also love the shout outs to the past of Superman (one page is a modern version of the Iconic Action Comics #1 Cover; another is Clark changing behind a billboard for a cell phone carrier).
There's shades of potential for great good and great evil here we see if he's pushed (which Waid would later explore in his superb series' 'Incorruptible' and 'Irredeemable').
There's much to like here, for Superman fans and fans of good stories as well. I wasn't entirely keen on all of the artwork, but it did serve the story well enough.
This is a great Superman story, partly because it's about characters and explores the characters most of all, and stays away from the stupid stuff. Even Kryptonite is handled in a better, more believable, yet still very dangerous way.
Essential. I'm even more impressed because for the first 20+ pages I was really ho-hum on it before it took off. I'm now going to jump into Waid's Daredevil work....fingers crossed!
This is great because it has Superman/Clark admit fully that while he can read fast, Lex is a genius of unparalleled levels. This is a Superman where Ma and Pa Kent are just different enough to have come from this century, not the 1930s. Ma Kent likes to study UFOs and the cosmos (in order to try and better understand her adoptive son) and Pa Kent isn't nearly the wise stoic man he is in most treatments, which is a nice change.
This includes Lex's connection to Smallville, and to Clark, but the beauty here is to show how and why they connected as well as they did in high school.
This also plays up Clark's interest in truth, justice, and bettering of the WORLD...not the AMERICAN WAY...It shows his travels across the world, learning, searching, discovering what he can about the world in order to try and better understand himself (much like most young people do). What's great is that he comes very close to humanity while being an alien.
There's also more hints of angry Superman, with panels of red glowing eyes and a black shadow, which I love to see. I hate when Superman isn't used to his full potential, and when they try to pretend that he's above emotional outbursts (which never makes sense, given that he was raised human, he's going to have human emotions, he's not a robot).
There's also a great part when he confronts a gun store owner who's sold guns to 2 teens who went to shoot up their school:
'I saw a 9 year old girl today wailing because she had a gun fired at her, and it will haunt her forever'
Then we see the gun fire towards the man, and his facial reaction of sheer terror, before Superman catches the bullet and says: 'Now you'll get to live with that same feeling.'
I LOVE IT. The Superman of too many people would just tie him up and leave him for the cops, but this one goes more dark on him, and I love Mark Waid for doing that.
I also love the shout outs to the past of Superman (one page is a modern version of the Iconic Action Comics #1 Cover; another is Clark changing behind a billboard for a cell phone carrier).
There's shades of potential for great good and great evil here we see if he's pushed (which Waid would later explore in his superb series' 'Incorruptible' and 'Irredeemable').
There's much to like here, for Superman fans and fans of good stories as well. I wasn't entirely keen on all of the artwork, but it did serve the story well enough.
This is a great Superman story, partly because it's about characters and explores the characters most of all, and stays away from the stupid stuff. Even Kryptonite is handled in a better, more believable, yet still very dangerous way.
Essential. I'm even more impressed because for the first 20+ pages I was really ho-hum on it before it took off. I'm now going to jump into Waid's Daredevil work....fingers crossed!
December 26, 2012
This got 5 stars from me because I generally just don't care about Superman. Thus, like with the novel be Tom DeHaan, "It's Superman!" when a Superman story can interest me to a major degree, it's impressive. Of course, it's hard to tell that from what I've reviewed, but to be fair, All-Star Superman is also widely regarded as a masterpiece of Superman stories.
Birthright does a new origin story and yet isn't boring. The updated Daily Planet, the Smallville-esque way of incorporating Lex into Clark's hometown (which has happened before, but not to as strong effect), and especially the way his "disguise" works are all finely honed here. Prior to this, I don't think anyone's been so forthright about WHY Clark's disguise works. It's not just glasses (though as a pop culture joke, it won't go away), it's tinted lenses, the way he carries himself, a higher voice, trying to purposefully blend in, never wearing t-shirts, etc. It's a really thoughtful look at what was (probably back when he was created) not a well-thought out disguise.
The one thing I wavered on was the use of the S symbol. I'd heard about this before, how someone decided to make the S stand for something other than Superman and this is that story. Luckily, there are some interviews at the back of the book that help explain. The goal was to have Superman carry on a symbol for Krypton as he's the lone survivor. It's marking him as a Kryptonian even as he attempts to save humans. It's a legacy. I'm still not sure that really works, but I can buy it with the detailed explanation.
All in all, apart from All-Star Superman, it's hard to argue that there's a better Superman story, or at least not a better origin one out right now.
Birthright does a new origin story and yet isn't boring. The updated Daily Planet, the Smallville-esque way of incorporating Lex into Clark's hometown (which has happened before, but not to as strong effect), and especially the way his "disguise" works are all finely honed here. Prior to this, I don't think anyone's been so forthright about WHY Clark's disguise works. It's not just glasses (though as a pop culture joke, it won't go away), it's tinted lenses, the way he carries himself, a higher voice, trying to purposefully blend in, never wearing t-shirts, etc. It's a really thoughtful look at what was (probably back when he was created) not a well-thought out disguise.
The one thing I wavered on was the use of the S symbol. I'd heard about this before, how someone decided to make the S stand for something other than Superman and this is that story. Luckily, there are some interviews at the back of the book that help explain. The goal was to have Superman carry on a symbol for Krypton as he's the lone survivor. It's marking him as a Kryptonian even as he attempts to save humans. It's a legacy. I'm still not sure that really works, but I can buy it with the detailed explanation.
All in all, apart from All-Star Superman, it's hard to argue that there's a better Superman story, or at least not a better origin one out right now.
July 25, 2014
Superman: Birthright is an excellent origin story. If you get the impulse to know how exactly Supes started, then this is the only comic book you need. The subplots on the other hand are just ordinary. It touches on so many points of Clark's life that it doesn't really go deep on most of them.
Birthright's story started strong. The Africa story is a heartfelt and a convincing anecdote in Kent's life to don the red cape (and underwear) and carry the great moral responsibility. After that, the Clark Kent - Superman journey from the barn to the big city is everything you have expected.
Then there is Luthor.
As an aside, let us take a look about why Batman Year One is the definitive Batman story, and perhaps the top Bats story of all time. The answer is simple: you have no villain. We just focus ourselves with Batman, Gotham and Gordon. Frank Miller could have added the Joker but he did not, because an arch-enemy as early in a hero's early career would have stolen the spotlight. Besides, it's inevitable for the Joker to have his own origin story (The Killing Joke).
That is the problem with Birthright, it has given a lot of panels to Lex Luthor. The main thesis is that Superman is the symbol of hope and courage. That is him. That is why we need a Superman. Instead, Birthright forced a reason for the people to need Supes, that the exposition of the thesis felt contrived: we need Superman because there is a super-villain. I lost interest by the time the final series of battles started. For me it was just a messy cocktail of destruction and rescue.
Yu has done a great job in his artwork though. I'm just not a fan of his under lashes.
Superman: Birthright is a modern origin story of the Man of Steel. It is modern but not definitive. Just don't expect Batman: Year One or All-Star Superman level of feels.
Birthright's story started strong. The Africa story is a heartfelt and a convincing anecdote in Kent's life to don the red cape (and underwear) and carry the great moral responsibility. After that, the Clark Kent - Superman journey from the barn to the big city is everything you have expected.
Then there is Luthor.
As an aside, let us take a look about why Batman Year One is the definitive Batman story, and perhaps the top Bats story of all time. The answer is simple: you have no villain. We just focus ourselves with Batman, Gotham and Gordon. Frank Miller could have added the Joker but he did not, because an arch-enemy as early in a hero's early career would have stolen the spotlight. Besides, it's inevitable for the Joker to have his own origin story (The Killing Joke).
That is the problem with Birthright, it has given a lot of panels to Lex Luthor. The main thesis is that Superman is the symbol of hope and courage. That is him. That is why we need a Superman. Instead, Birthright forced a reason for the people to need Supes, that the exposition of the thesis felt contrived: we need Superman because there is a super-villain. I lost interest by the time the final series of battles started. For me it was just a messy cocktail of destruction and rescue.
Yu has done a great job in his artwork though. I'm just not a fan of his under lashes.
Superman: Birthright is a modern origin story of the Man of Steel. It is modern but not definitive. Just don't expect Batman: Year One or All-Star Superman level of feels.
July 4, 2025
The Superman origin story has been told countless times and honestly a lot of my favorite Superman stories are his first few months/years. Other characters add greater depth and rogues to fight and grow but Superman works best when he finds himself and that usually happens when he first hits Metropolis. Real Superman fans can tear me apart in the comments if need be.
This is one of the definitive origin stories and keeps it modern enough to be NEW while still holding that 40s can do spirit. This is a great way to get prepared for the new movie and I hope that optimism and self-will works its way into the 2025 film. I really enjoyed this and was a great 4th of July read.
This is one of the definitive origin stories and keeps it modern enough to be NEW while still holding that 40s can do spirit. This is a great way to get prepared for the new movie and I hope that optimism and self-will works its way into the 2025 film. I really enjoyed this and was a great 4th of July read.
October 22, 2017
I've been reading both a fair amount of Superman books and various titles featuring the involvement of Mark Waid this year. Superman: Birthright is a great combination of character and writer. With nodding references to the 50's TV series and '78 blockbuster (among others), this updates the Man of Steel's well-known origin to the 21st century. From the scenes on the Kent family farm to Perry White's pros/cons list on keeping/firing Lois Lane, this had the right amount of heart and humor to mix in with the expected action.
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