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Superman: The Harvests of Youth
Clark Kent’s idyllic teen life is wrenched away when the death of a classmate rocks Smallville. As he and his friends grieve, the challenges they face become darker, more complex, and deeply insidious. For the first time in his life, Clark must grapple with life’s biggest questions, and confront his own mortality (or lack thereof) in order to become the hero his beloved town needs. Acclaimed GLAAD Media Award-nominated writer and artist Sina Grace (Iceman) tells the deeply moving and quintessential story of teenage Clark Kent and the town that must overcome grief and hate to restore hope.
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Sina Grace
223 books145 followersSina Grace’s parents had big plans for their son: Ivy League schooling, professional credentials, a 6-figure income as a doctor– the works! Fortunately for us, he found the wonderful world of comics instead. It was in this world of contradictions that he “matured,” one foot teetering on the edge of academia, the other drawn to the inescapable grasp of an ink-bound fantasy underworld.
At 14, Grace seemingly appeased his parents by interning at Top Cow Productions, under the guidance of Editor-in-Chief Renae Geerlings (his single mother figured at least he was collecting college credit). However the only thing he was collecting (other than comics), was the compulsive habit of drawing unrealistically proportioned, scantily clad women.
At 16, he got a perpetual summer-time job at the Santa Monica landmark: Hi De Ho Comics, where he would be inspired to create Books with Pictures. By 17 he wrote, drew, and self-published his first comic, The Roller-Derby Robo-Dykes versus the Cannibals. His knowledge of disproportionate harlots with weapons came in handy when depicting a story about Robo-Dykes bent on taking over the world. His mother was happy that he was taking interest in girls. The book went into a second printing, and received the praise of Lying in the Gutters critic, Rich Johnston.
Weeks after graduating high school, he was asked by Rilo Kiley front-woman Jenny Lewis to illustrate a limited edition comic book adaptation of their 2004 record, More Adventurous. In the spring of 2006 he was asked to apprentice under comics genius, Howard Chaykin (even though it may not be apparent in Books with Pictures, Grace did learn the function of a ruler and the meaning of a vanishing point).
Between the summers of 2005 and 06, Grace’s partially-biographical indie dramedy, Books with Pictures, went from hand-xeroxed zines to full-fledged, full-sized comic books. Shortly after its debut at San Diego Comic-Con, Diamond Distributors accepted the series into their ordering catalogue, Previews. Grace’s work on the series was met with admiration from bloggers and reviewers alike, and has since taken on several projects for multiple anthologies due in late 2008.
To his parents’ delight, he graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, receiving an undergraduate degree in Literature, with an emphasis on Creative Writing.
Sina Grace recently self-published an illustrated novel about a sorcerer sleuth in Orange County, aptly named Cedric Hollows in Dial M for Magic, his next project will be providing illustrations for Amber Benson’s novel, Among the Ghosts, through Aladdin Books.
At 14, Grace seemingly appeased his parents by interning at Top Cow Productions, under the guidance of Editor-in-Chief Renae Geerlings (his single mother figured at least he was collecting college credit). However the only thing he was collecting (other than comics), was the compulsive habit of drawing unrealistically proportioned, scantily clad women.
At 16, he got a perpetual summer-time job at the Santa Monica landmark: Hi De Ho Comics, where he would be inspired to create Books with Pictures. By 17 he wrote, drew, and self-published his first comic, The Roller-Derby Robo-Dykes versus the Cannibals. His knowledge of disproportionate harlots with weapons came in handy when depicting a story about Robo-Dykes bent on taking over the world. His mother was happy that he was taking interest in girls. The book went into a second printing, and received the praise of Lying in the Gutters critic, Rich Johnston.
Weeks after graduating high school, he was asked by Rilo Kiley front-woman Jenny Lewis to illustrate a limited edition comic book adaptation of their 2004 record, More Adventurous. In the spring of 2006 he was asked to apprentice under comics genius, Howard Chaykin (even though it may not be apparent in Books with Pictures, Grace did learn the function of a ruler and the meaning of a vanishing point).
Between the summers of 2005 and 06, Grace’s partially-biographical indie dramedy, Books with Pictures, went from hand-xeroxed zines to full-fledged, full-sized comic books. Shortly after its debut at San Diego Comic-Con, Diamond Distributors accepted the series into their ordering catalogue, Previews. Grace’s work on the series was met with admiration from bloggers and reviewers alike, and has since taken on several projects for multiple anthologies due in late 2008.
To his parents’ delight, he graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, receiving an undergraduate degree in Literature, with an emphasis on Creative Writing.
Sina Grace recently self-published an illustrated novel about a sorcerer sleuth in Orange County, aptly named Cedric Hollows in Dial M for Magic, his next project will be providing illustrations for Amber Benson’s novel, Among the Ghosts, through Aladdin Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
September 18, 2023
"I guess this is your version of a driver's license. Be home by eleven." -- Jonathan 'Pa' Kent, draping the signature red cape over teenage son Clark's shoulders before he takes flight, on page 133
Although titled Superman: The Harvests of Youth, this graphic novel should more accurately be titled Superboy. Adolescent Clark Kent - still a student at Smallville High and not yet sporting his super-heroic alter ego - investigates the shocking suicide of a classmate who was under the spell of a burgeoning and very controversial social media movement. While the villain 'reveal' scene (using a reimagined version of one of Superman's classic foes) was a pretty good surprise, and Clark's amiably altruistic nature is consistently displayed without being cloying, the rest of the content was not very satisfying. The updated chic interpretations of Ma and Pa Kent mostly miss the mark (for instance, he resembles a young Ernest Hemingway while she sports a pink hairdo), one of the supporting teen characters has an overwrought crisis that smacks of an 80's sitcom's Very Special Episode status, and there was much more earthbound hand-wringing drama than actual (and desired) action scenes.
Although titled Superman: The Harvests of Youth, this graphic novel should more accurately be titled Superboy. Adolescent Clark Kent - still a student at Smallville High and not yet sporting his super-heroic alter ego - investigates the shocking suicide of a classmate who was under the spell of a burgeoning and very controversial social media movement. While the villain 'reveal' scene (using a reimagined version of one of Superman's classic foes) was a pretty good surprise, and Clark's amiably altruistic nature is consistently displayed without being cloying, the rest of the content was not very satisfying. The updated chic interpretations of Ma and Pa Kent mostly miss the mark (for instance, he resembles a young Ernest Hemingway while she sports a pink hairdo), one of the supporting teen characters has an overwrought crisis that smacks of an 80's sitcom's Very Special Episode status, and there was much more earthbound hand-wringing drama than actual (and desired) action scenes.
December 20, 2023
More like a high 4.5 but it doesn't quite measure up to the art or storytelling sweep of bona fide classics like Secret Identity or All-Star Superman so I couldn't quite justify going the full 5 stars.
That said, this one really should be required reading on a lot of Grade 9 curricula, it really engages with what dealing with serious issues of mental health exacerbated by toxic online communities can be like for isolated or troubled youth. It does contain what I suppose would be considered "triggering" topics such as suicide, misogyny, and mass shooting-style lone wolf attacks
Smallville-vibes aside, this one is highly recommended as a vital update to the greatest superhero's formative years that will no doubt resonate with the youth of today and serve as a cautionary tale for their parents and caregivers.
That said, this one really should be required reading on a lot of Grade 9 curricula, it really engages with what dealing with serious issues of mental health exacerbated by toxic online communities can be like for isolated or troubled youth. It does contain what I suppose would be considered "triggering" topics such as suicide, misogyny, and mass shooting-style lone wolf attacks
Smallville-vibes aside, this one is highly recommended as a vital update to the greatest superhero's formative years that will no doubt resonate with the youth of today and serve as a cautionary tale for their parents and caregivers.
December 28, 2023
I'm kind of going back and forth on how to rate this. I love the idea of exploring a teenage Clark Kent in today's world, particularly when it comes to hate groups, the dark side of social media, incels and the like.
I really like this portrayal of Clark, I like his friend group, I like that even here he's a boy scout and it annoys the Hell out of some of his friends. I like that it's a story about how you don't need superpowers to do the right thing, or alternatively sometimes even with superpowers some people can't be saved.
The aspects around how powerful online hate groups can be ruffled me a bit, but for the sake of drama I was willing to go with it. I wasn't sure how I felt with the idea that good people can be convinced to murder others because they feel excluded. It felt like a surprisingly sympathetic view of incels. It could just be my interpretation though.
I really love Sina Grace's art, I really hope to see more of it.
I really like this portrayal of Clark, I like his friend group, I like that even here he's a boy scout and it annoys the Hell out of some of his friends. I like that it's a story about how you don't need superpowers to do the right thing, or alternatively sometimes even with superpowers some people can't be saved.
The aspects around how powerful online hate groups can be ruffled me a bit, but for the sake of drama I was willing to go with it. I wasn't sure how I felt with the idea that good people can be convinced to murder others because they feel excluded. It felt like a surprisingly sympathetic view of incels. It could just be my interpretation though.
I really love Sina Grace's art, I really hope to see more of it.
February 23, 2024
A dreary YA look at a mopey, teenaged Clark Kent dealing with an acquaintance's suicide and a friend being radicalized into joining a misogynistic hate group of incels with a vague anti-elitist agenda and an arcane knowledge of obscure children's literature trivia.
For all it's "Afterschool Special" or "very special episode" blandness, the most frustrating part of this book for me was how the kid lit riddle that becomes a key part of the story is never fully shown for the audience to solve even though the answer is later uselessly revealed. What was the point of that?
For all it's "Afterschool Special" or "very special episode" blandness, the most frustrating part of this book for me was how the kid lit riddle that becomes a key part of the story is never fully shown for the audience to solve even though the answer is later uselessly revealed. What was the point of that?
November 5, 2023
The illustrations were fantastic, and seeing Superman tackle some of the real issues we’re seeing today is fascinating and exciting. Some of the writing was clunky and awkward, but the heart was there.
October 28, 2024
(3.0) It’s good to see a young Superman deal with real life issues through great artwork. The writing wasn’t as fluid as I’d hoped but it embodied cliche sentiment in a haphazard yet good way.
September 24, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and DC Entertainment for the advanced copy.
This is the Superman we're all familiar with, but updated for Gen Z. Jobs, attitudes, and language are all modern and very 2023, as are the conflicts presented in this particular Superman tale, but somehow everyone is still themselves!
I especially enjoyed the dialogue. These felt like real people that I know, and I was especially impressed with Sina Grace writing modern teenagers so well. Will some of it be dated in a few years? Inevitably, but still enjoyable.
Clark's boy-next-door personality is front and center, as it should be in a classic Superman story, but so are those typical teenage problems of drifting from friends and falling in love... along with modern teenage problems like depression, suicide, school shooters, and the online radicalization of the youth into far-right ideologies. Not going to lie, for the first half of the comic I found it a bit much. I didn't see the inter-connectedness of the story right away and it felt more like those 80s tv "special episodes" but all in one episode. As it goes on though you see how it all goes together, and then the final message is quite obvious.
Will this be a divisive comic? I think so, just for the fact that incels and online extremism is main conflict. I recommend anyone not in the mood for "politics" to give Harvests of Youth a shot though, because this is a wonderful and optimistic update of Superman as a character, bringing him into 2023 in a way that modern teenagers can better relate to. Like it or not, these are the sorts of things kids are dealing with these days and it makes sense for them to be addressed or become topics of focus, and that's par for the course for comics - there's a long history of the medium giving voice to current events and societal issues.
This is probably my favorite Superman story that I've read in a long time.
This is the Superman we're all familiar with, but updated for Gen Z. Jobs, attitudes, and language are all modern and very 2023, as are the conflicts presented in this particular Superman tale, but somehow everyone is still themselves!
I especially enjoyed the dialogue. These felt like real people that I know, and I was especially impressed with Sina Grace writing modern teenagers so well. Will some of it be dated in a few years? Inevitably, but still enjoyable.
Clark's boy-next-door personality is front and center, as it should be in a classic Superman story, but so are those typical teenage problems of drifting from friends and falling in love... along with modern teenage problems like depression, suicide, school shooters, and the online radicalization of the youth into far-right ideologies. Not going to lie, for the first half of the comic I found it a bit much. I didn't see the inter-connectedness of the story right away and it felt more like those 80s tv "special episodes" but all in one episode. As it goes on though you see how it all goes together, and then the final message is quite obvious.
Will this be a divisive comic? I think so, just for the fact that incels and online extremism is main conflict. I recommend anyone not in the mood for "politics" to give Harvests of Youth a shot though, because this is a wonderful and optimistic update of Superman as a character, bringing him into 2023 in a way that modern teenagers can better relate to. Like it or not, these are the sorts of things kids are dealing with these days and it makes sense for them to be addressed or become topics of focus, and that's par for the course for comics - there's a long history of the medium giving voice to current events and societal issues.
This is probably my favorite Superman story that I've read in a long time.
April 16, 2024
While overall a strong story, I do have two critiques:
1) Thematically, this felt a biiiit too similar to Supergirl: Being Super at times. Which wouldn't normally be a problem--nothing new under the sun and all--but since they're both Superman family stories it's just a bit annoying.
2) The whole online hate mob thing felt very....neutered. Like the author wanted to tackle the issue of online harassment but didn't want to directly include how vile it can get, and so we get Pepe-esque appropriations of cartoon characters but none of the actual hatred--I think the idea was something like incels and while I appreciate the commentary on how online hate groups prey on lonely men and boys to draw them into their groups, it felt VERY toned down compared to reality, and this is a graphic novel that already covers heavy topics like suicide--it isn't as if it getting dark would be out of place. All in all it felt like they wanted to do a story about online harassment and loneliness but didn't really include any of the teeth that make online harassment such a horrible issue. I wish that the only thing online hate groups were responsible for irl were graffiti and calling people sluts.
1) Thematically, this felt a biiiit too similar to Supergirl: Being Super at times. Which wouldn't normally be a problem--nothing new under the sun and all--but since they're both Superman family stories it's just a bit annoying.
2) The whole online hate mob thing felt very....neutered. Like the author wanted to tackle the issue of online harassment but didn't want to directly include how vile it can get, and so we get Pepe-esque appropriations of cartoon characters but none of the actual hatred--I think the idea was something like incels and while I appreciate the commentary on how online hate groups prey on lonely men and boys to draw them into their groups, it felt VERY toned down compared to reality, and this is a graphic novel that already covers heavy topics like suicide--it isn't as if it getting dark would be out of place. All in all it felt like they wanted to do a story about online harassment and loneliness but didn't really include any of the teeth that make online harassment such a horrible issue. I wish that the only thing online hate groups were responsible for irl were graffiti and calling people sluts.
December 5, 2023
Superman takes on mental health, depression and wanting to hurt others to make yourself feel better.
I haven’t seen characters like this before, and it was interesting to see the most powerful man in the world be powerless. He can’t fix his friend’s sadness or depression. Him wanting to fix everything is something I relate to. And sometimes it pushes others further away.
I think it did a great job juggling a real issue, but also tying it all together with Superman’s origin story. It made me really want to watch Smallville after, or see how his relationship with Lex evolves. Pity there isn’t a sequel.
I haven’t seen characters like this before, and it was interesting to see the most powerful man in the world be powerless. He can’t fix his friend’s sadness or depression. Him wanting to fix everything is something I relate to. And sometimes it pushes others further away.
I think it did a great job juggling a real issue, but also tying it all together with Superman’s origin story. It made me really want to watch Smallville after, or see how his relationship with Lex evolves. Pity there isn’t a sequel.
February 24, 2025
I really enjoyed the portrayal of a modern day Clark Kent. How his uprightness would definitely turn some people off. And how there's balance to overly mothering someone as opposed to being there for them.
The storyline tried to zero in on how some men are swayed into incel/manosphere/redpill "they're owed happiness" rhetoric. I find it difficult to extend sympathy to these types due to the harm caused and entitlement, but this story takes a more understanding approach to this/them.
Ultimately, I like that Clark's superpowers played a background role. The power of community and doing the right thing.
3.5
The storyline tried to zero in on how some men are swayed into incel/manosphere/redpill "they're owed happiness" rhetoric. I find it difficult to extend sympathy to these types due to the harm caused and entitlement, but this story takes a more understanding approach to this/them.
Ultimately, I like that Clark's superpowers played a background role. The power of community and doing the right thing.
3.5
June 21, 2025
I liked this take on what challenges a Clark Kent growing up and going to high school today might face. It’s introspective and emotional. Makes me nostalgic. I think I read somewhere around the time of this book’s release that Taylor Swift’s “folklore” was an inspiration for it, and I can feel that same energy here. Emotional, nostalgic, introspective, but still warm, optimistic, and youthful.
December 20, 2024
Dunno what I liked more, Clark Kent quoting Maya Angelou or Lex Luther looking like Elon Musk
August 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, DC Comics, DC Entertainment, and Sina Grace for the opportunity yo read this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
Warning: heavy emotional content including suicide.
What an interesting way to see Superman. Clark in high school and hides his powers from the people of Smallville. When a student commits suicide, Clark undergoes his own investigation, thinking there is a leading cause linked to a local hate group. By happenstance, Clark befriends (and kind of unofficially dates) Amy, the sister of the boy who killed himself.
Amy being targeted by the hate group and her own depression at the loss of her brother brings her into a negative space. Similarly, Gil, one of Clark's friends, hurts his ankle during skating and may never skateboard again. This brings Gil into his own pool of anger as he attempts to join the hate group, unbeknownst to everyone else.
We also have a little bit of Lux Luthor interaction, as Luther Corp is looking to buy/use a ton of empty Smallville land. We get a glimpse of what the corporation is up to.
A really great graphic novel dealing with more mature themes (suicide, grief, and taking the world upon one's shoulders), along with exploring relationships, including friends, family, and romance. I absolutely adored the final pages of this book and find it to wrap up nicely as a stand-alone, though as it is Superman, there is certainly promise for more.
**After some minor research to see if Amy and Alvin Buenaventura make other appearances in the DC universe only to find Alvin being named in honor of comic book artist Alvin Buenaventura who passed away in 2016.
Warning: heavy emotional content including suicide.
What an interesting way to see Superman. Clark in high school and hides his powers from the people of Smallville. When a student commits suicide, Clark undergoes his own investigation, thinking there is a leading cause linked to a local hate group. By happenstance, Clark befriends (and kind of unofficially dates) Amy, the sister of the boy who killed himself.
Amy being targeted by the hate group and her own depression at the loss of her brother brings her into a negative space. Similarly, Gil, one of Clark's friends, hurts his ankle during skating and may never skateboard again. This brings Gil into his own pool of anger as he attempts to join the hate group, unbeknownst to everyone else.
We also have a little bit of Lux Luthor interaction, as Luther Corp is looking to buy/use a ton of empty Smallville land. We get a glimpse of what the corporation is up to.
A really great graphic novel dealing with more mature themes (suicide, grief, and taking the world upon one's shoulders), along with exploring relationships, including friends, family, and romance. I absolutely adored the final pages of this book and find it to wrap up nicely as a stand-alone, though as it is Superman, there is certainly promise for more.
**After some minor research to see if Amy and Alvin Buenaventura make other appearances in the DC universe only to find Alvin being named in honor of comic book artist Alvin Buenaventura who passed away in 2016.
October 4, 2023
Superman: The Harvests of Youth
Following the tragic death of a school friend, a teenaged Clark Kent must try to balance his secret life with his desire to help his classmates through their different forms of grief.
The title and cover both intrigued me. I love the graphic of a Clark Kent on the verge of being Superman, still sitting on a fence in Smallville, surrounded by his friends and (on looking for the source of the quote) there are many readings to choose from. The two I feel most relevant are Colton's "The seeds of repentance are sown in youth by pleasure, but the harvest is reaped in age by pain" and Chittister's "The harvest of youth is achievement".
Grace's story is a tough read as it deals with tough topics, such as the rise of despair and depression in teenage life as well as the rise of Incel culture, but it was for the darkness (albeit a different sort of darkness) that Superman was created as a beacon of hope. Perhaps, as far as Grace seems to saying here, Clark needed to experience the despair in order to become the symbol for hope. It is fitting too that Grace uses Kal-El's red blanket with the Kryptonian crest as the source of Clark's comfort as he battles with his frustration at not being able to help people through this pain with superpowers.
Following the tragic death of a school friend, a teenaged Clark Kent must try to balance his secret life with his desire to help his classmates through their different forms of grief.
The title and cover both intrigued me. I love the graphic of a Clark Kent on the verge of being Superman, still sitting on a fence in Smallville, surrounded by his friends and (on looking for the source of the quote) there are many readings to choose from. The two I feel most relevant are Colton's "The seeds of repentance are sown in youth by pleasure, but the harvest is reaped in age by pain" and Chittister's "The harvest of youth is achievement".
Grace's story is a tough read as it deals with tough topics, such as the rise of despair and depression in teenage life as well as the rise of Incel culture, but it was for the darkness (albeit a different sort of darkness) that Superman was created as a beacon of hope. Perhaps, as far as Grace seems to saying here, Clark needed to experience the despair in order to become the symbol for hope. It is fitting too that Grace uses Kal-El's red blanket with the Kryptonian crest as the source of Clark's comfort as he battles with his frustration at not being able to help people through this pain with superpowers.
July 2, 2023
Superman vs. toxic masculinity! There’s some really good ideas in this book, but it ends up just being a simplistic rehashing of themes I’ve seen often and done much better elsewhere. I am a fan of some of Grace’s other works, like Iceman, but I can’t say this is one of his better works. His art style here is great though, and arguably one of the highlights. I wish this story had cut the entire antagonist and shitty dude plot line, and focused more on Clark confronting the hopelessness people can face in life. That theme is here, but not nearly enough, especially when it’s the strongest aspect of the story, imo; I didn’t need the other plot lines at all to lift this one up or bog it down. We needed to spend more time with Clark and see his friends through his eyes, as I didn’t care about any of them. But honestly, I’d probably just focus on the Clark/Lex dynamic mainly, since that was the only interesting relationship in the book; this needed more of it. The actual love story here was so basic and took up too much space. I admire what this book was trying to do, but it didn’t work for me, overall. 2.5/5 stars.
October 26, 2023
"Superman: The Harvests of Youth" showcases Sina Grace's deep and nuanced gifts for storytelling. This updated Suberboy story tells a tale that reads true to the original material while dealing with very current issues and concerns. Set against the background of a classmate's recent suicide this story follows the struggles of Clark and his friend group over the course of about a year to deal with its impact and the specific social stresses that are tearing through their community.
4.5 stars rounded to 4.
4.5 stars rounded to 4.
January 17, 2024
I'm glad this was sitting on my library shelf. I don't read much Superman, but this was one of the better uses of the character. I liked how it approached mental health and the hazards of seeking validation on the Internet.
Art was crisp and I liked the creative liberties. I'll put this in people's hands, but I suspect the main readers have already found it.
Art was crisp and I liked the creative liberties. I'll put this in people's hands, but I suspect the main readers have already found it.
October 29, 2023
“Ma’s advice never strays from the straightforward. That if you boil any event down to its core there’s a right thing to do and a wrong this to do. I think this version of the truth was the right thing to do.”
October 29, 2023
Emotional, educational and Superman. The best.
November 23, 2025
I really didn’t like this. I don’t know if it was entirely the fault of the graphic novel or the fact that I just read two amazing and impact DC stories just before this. Superman Smashes the Klan and This Land is Our Land are a better representation of what Harvest of Youth tries to do but ultimately doesn’t do well. The conversations about online hate groups and suicide just didn’t work well when being tied with a shallow but face paced story.
I also felt that randomly characters would get mad at each other with no build up and it was like well he is really sad and that’s why he is being horrible. I don’t know. Just not for me.
I also felt that randomly characters would get mad at each other with no build up and it was like well he is really sad and that’s why he is being horrible. I don’t know. Just not for me.
October 23, 2025
I really liked this portrayal of a teenage Clark Kent set in modern times. The art in this comic was gorgeous but I did find the story a little lacking especially involving the online hate groups. But overall this was a good quick little graphic novel focusing on mental health awareness and could be a great read for a younger audience.
August 3, 2024
A great take on what Clark Kent would have been like as a teen in 2023 rather than as far back as the 1950s as well as a wonderful telling on the real life issues of just being a teenager.
November 6, 2023
This is a spoiler free review.
Superman: The Harvests of Youth is a dark modern reimagining of a young teenage Clark Kent / Superboy story. I enjoyed reading this modern Superman graphic novel. It's not what I expected and tackles a lot of modern issues that all teenagers deal with. I think it's great that even a Superman deals with doubts and even feels overwhelmed at times. Clark Kent is just like all of us, he has fears, self doubt and needs help sometime. This story showed me that everyone, even a Superman, needs help sometime and it's ok to ask for it. It's a great lesson to tell young people.
This graphic novel is a different feeling Superman tale which is what drew me in. The story reminds me of Smallville but much darker in tone. Superman: The Harvests of Youth is definitely geared towards a younger audience but I think all Superman fans will find something they enjoy and relate to in this interesting graphic novel.
The story begins on a very sad note with the death of a student who committed suicide. The poor kid who died was also friends with Clark Kent. All of Smallville mourns this tragic death in different ways. Clark, Lana, and their new friend Amy try to solve some of the questions surrounding this very sad death. All of this really hit home for me because a long time ago a dear friend of mine hurt herself and died shortly after I graduated from college. So the beginning of Superman: The Harvests of Youth was upsetting to me but I pushed on and read the entire YA graphic novel.
Superman: The Harvests of Youth is a different Superman story which is what made me want to continue reading it. Most Superman comics don’t deal with such dark themes as suicide. So that made me want to see how Clark and his friends would deal with tragedy at such a young ages. I remember it being so hard for me so I appreciated what Clark and friends go through during this comic.
The only other Superman comic I can remember being this sad besides the death of Superman comics is the 1993 Superman 84 by Dan Jurgens where the Toyman murders Cat Grant's son, Adam Grant. That was an awful sad story which evoked emotion from all fans who read it. That was the first time I read a Superman comic where it dealt with such an emotional dark topic as the death of a child. It's good to see Superman: The Harvests of Youth shows us comics can still cover such dark topics today.
That being said I was hoping there would be more light hearted moments and heroics from Clark but it was fun to see an uncertain youth trying to cope with High school drama and his growing powers... I liked how in the beginning of this graphic novel Clark enjoys sitting on his parents roof and looking at the sky and the farm, this is a peaceful place for Clark. Then as the story progresses we see Clark discover how much flying is also an escape for him. Then finally towards the end of the book Clark flies holding his Kryptonian blanket with the House of El symbol for hope, the Superman S in full view. This made me so happy and gave me hope that Clark would find the right path to help his friends.
The artwork in Superman: The Harvests of Youth is awesome. The illustrations really compliment the tone of the story so well. I felt like there was a lot of sad somber colors used in the background which added to the melancholy tone of the book. I really liked how there was a lot of movement and turmoil in the artwork at times. It felt like there was always a breeze passing by Clark and his friends which showed all the changes each character is dealing with it. Well done, great job having the illustrations and story working hand in hand to immerse the readers.
If you are a fan of Superman or teenage drama this is the book for you. Superman: The Harvests of Youth is entertaining and also very sad. This story will draw you in and it's worth reading!
Stay awesome and keep reading!
Superman: The Harvests of Youth
Written and Illustrated by Sina Grace
Superman: The Harvests of Youth is a dark modern reimagining of a young teenage Clark Kent / Superboy story. I enjoyed reading this modern Superman graphic novel. It's not what I expected and tackles a lot of modern issues that all teenagers deal with. I think it's great that even a Superman deals with doubts and even feels overwhelmed at times. Clark Kent is just like all of us, he has fears, self doubt and needs help sometime. This story showed me that everyone, even a Superman, needs help sometime and it's ok to ask for it. It's a great lesson to tell young people.
This graphic novel is a different feeling Superman tale which is what drew me in. The story reminds me of Smallville but much darker in tone. Superman: The Harvests of Youth is definitely geared towards a younger audience but I think all Superman fans will find something they enjoy and relate to in this interesting graphic novel.
The story begins on a very sad note with the death of a student who committed suicide. The poor kid who died was also friends with Clark Kent. All of Smallville mourns this tragic death in different ways. Clark, Lana, and their new friend Amy try to solve some of the questions surrounding this very sad death. All of this really hit home for me because a long time ago a dear friend of mine hurt herself and died shortly after I graduated from college. So the beginning of Superman: The Harvests of Youth was upsetting to me but I pushed on and read the entire YA graphic novel.
Superman: The Harvests of Youth is a different Superman story which is what made me want to continue reading it. Most Superman comics don’t deal with such dark themes as suicide. So that made me want to see how Clark and his friends would deal with tragedy at such a young ages. I remember it being so hard for me so I appreciated what Clark and friends go through during this comic.
The only other Superman comic I can remember being this sad besides the death of Superman comics is the 1993 Superman 84 by Dan Jurgens where the Toyman murders Cat Grant's son, Adam Grant. That was an awful sad story which evoked emotion from all fans who read it. That was the first time I read a Superman comic where it dealt with such an emotional dark topic as the death of a child. It's good to see Superman: The Harvests of Youth shows us comics can still cover such dark topics today.
That being said I was hoping there would be more light hearted moments and heroics from Clark but it was fun to see an uncertain youth trying to cope with High school drama and his growing powers... I liked how in the beginning of this graphic novel Clark enjoys sitting on his parents roof and looking at the sky and the farm, this is a peaceful place for Clark. Then as the story progresses we see Clark discover how much flying is also an escape for him. Then finally towards the end of the book Clark flies holding his Kryptonian blanket with the House of El symbol for hope, the Superman S in full view. This made me so happy and gave me hope that Clark would find the right path to help his friends.
The artwork in Superman: The Harvests of Youth is awesome. The illustrations really compliment the tone of the story so well. I felt like there was a lot of sad somber colors used in the background which added to the melancholy tone of the book. I really liked how there was a lot of movement and turmoil in the artwork at times. It felt like there was always a breeze passing by Clark and his friends which showed all the changes each character is dealing with it. Well done, great job having the illustrations and story working hand in hand to immerse the readers.
If you are a fan of Superman or teenage drama this is the book for you. Superman: The Harvests of Youth is entertaining and also very sad. This story will draw you in and it's worth reading!
Stay awesome and keep reading!
Superman: The Harvests of Youth
Written and Illustrated by Sina Grace
December 22, 2023
I did not expect this to be as dark or as serious as it turned out to be. To be honest, whenever I think of DC, I think of the more campy versions of the comics and tv shows. I liked that this seemed to be a one-shot and can appreciate it for what it is, and the artwork is actually pretty good too. However, I can't give it 5 stars because even though I understand the message, there was a bit of redundancy. I think as a woman reading this, it was just a little too weird and maybe I wasn't the audience for this. I enjoyed it overall though and if continuations were released in this series, I would be interested in reading them.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the eARC.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the eARC.
May 20, 2024
I wasn't expecting this graphic novel to personally resonate as much as it did with me. Unfortunately, the plot hit extremely close to home, and my husband and I are still grieving almost a year later.
I think this graphic novel has a great message. You can't save everyone, and you just have to do the best you can when confronted with difficult emotions.
Also, please reach out if you think someone is hurting. It really could save a life.
I think this graphic novel has a great message. You can't save everyone, and you just have to do the best you can when confronted with difficult emotions.
Also, please reach out if you think someone is hurting. It really could save a life.
June 19, 2024
"Son, the people will save the people...you'll save the world"
A quote by Jonathan Kent to his son Clark Kent.
I went into reading this graphic novel based only on a small summary that stated Clark Kent and his friends dealt with loss. That had me intrigued, but I still had no idea what to expect. Like many other Superman fans, I am probably more used to reading action-oriented comic runs - this was not that. It caught me off guard. That being said, this book was still a good read, albeit the style of it was unexpected. It felt like a young adult graphic novel layered with tidbits of Superman's life. Not even Superman exactly, but Clark Kent. If you grew up watching the Superman-based TV Show "Smallville", I guess you could say it kind of felt like an episode of that series.
The content of the book was still good. It did deal with loss; loss in the form of the suicide of a classmate of Clark Kent, Lana Lang, Chloe Sullivan, Pete Ross, and more. The impact of Alvin's death sent shockwaves throughout Smallville, affecting everyone in different ways, especially Alvin's sister, Amy, and another close friend of Clark's named "Gill." The crux of this book deals with Clark's interactions and solutions to the problems that these two are having (independently of one another).
The cause of the suicide did not exist inside a vacuum as the book relays but stems from a more insidious conspiracy. This is revealed slowly throughout the narrative of the book, and this same threat targets Clark's friend Gil. In an effort not to reveal more than what's necessary to understand the plot, I'll leave it at that.
One of the things that stood out to me in this book was also the lexicon utilized for character interactions. You could instantly tell that this book was intended for Gen Z or younger (it was released late last year, so that does seem to be the case). That being said, I still enjoyed it, and could connect with it (I'm pushing 31. Go figure lol). One of the main points I personally connected with is the realization of the character's mortalities, especially in Clark and Gil. They both come to terms with how infallible and fallible they are respectively. Clark, the indestructible God-like force, wants to feel more human and conforming, whereas Gil wants to stand out apart from the rest and be more likable. A contrast in a way.
Another aspect of this book that stood out to me was the prominent inclusion of romance between Amy's character and Clark's character. I did not expect it to play so heavy a role, but I felt like if it had not been included, the narrative of the book would not have been as good as it was. A prominent idea behind Superman is that he tries to save everyone and anyone he can. Amy, the sister of Alvin, had to deal with the loss of her brother in a town she just moved to. Clark tries to console her and help her grieve, but Amy's character resents feeling like "something that needs to be fixed." This clash between Clark's need to "save" Amy, and Amy's need to be more than that is showcased throughout the novel. It leads into why Jonathan Kent says the quote I posted above. Sometimes people need to save themselves and heal themselves on their own, and that's something Clark learns throughout this book. At the same time, Clark's friend Gil, acts independent and as though he is above the need for aid, while inside he craves people who genuinely care about him. This subtle need for care is also showcased through the graphic novel. The contrast between Amy and Gil here was yet another contrast of personas.
All in all, I think this book was good, but not great. Had it not been for the final act of the graphic novel, I think I would have actually given this a 3 star rating, but the emotional strength of the final arc was worth an upgrade. I would still consider this something to read, especially considering it's a short read.
A quote by Jonathan Kent to his son Clark Kent.
I went into reading this graphic novel based only on a small summary that stated Clark Kent and his friends dealt with loss. That had me intrigued, but I still had no idea what to expect. Like many other Superman fans, I am probably more used to reading action-oriented comic runs - this was not that. It caught me off guard. That being said, this book was still a good read, albeit the style of it was unexpected. It felt like a young adult graphic novel layered with tidbits of Superman's life. Not even Superman exactly, but Clark Kent. If you grew up watching the Superman-based TV Show "Smallville", I guess you could say it kind of felt like an episode of that series.
The content of the book was still good. It did deal with loss; loss in the form of the suicide of a classmate of Clark Kent, Lana Lang, Chloe Sullivan, Pete Ross, and more. The impact of Alvin's death sent shockwaves throughout Smallville, affecting everyone in different ways, especially Alvin's sister, Amy, and another close friend of Clark's named "Gill." The crux of this book deals with Clark's interactions and solutions to the problems that these two are having (independently of one another).
The cause of the suicide did not exist inside a vacuum as the book relays but stems from a more insidious conspiracy. This is revealed slowly throughout the narrative of the book, and this same threat targets Clark's friend Gil. In an effort not to reveal more than what's necessary to understand the plot, I'll leave it at that.
One of the things that stood out to me in this book was also the lexicon utilized for character interactions. You could instantly tell that this book was intended for Gen Z or younger (it was released late last year, so that does seem to be the case). That being said, I still enjoyed it, and could connect with it (I'm pushing 31. Go figure lol). One of the main points I personally connected with is the realization of the character's mortalities, especially in Clark and Gil. They both come to terms with how infallible and fallible they are respectively. Clark, the indestructible God-like force, wants to feel more human and conforming, whereas Gil wants to stand out apart from the rest and be more likable. A contrast in a way.
Another aspect of this book that stood out to me was the prominent inclusion of romance between Amy's character and Clark's character. I did not expect it to play so heavy a role, but I felt like if it had not been included, the narrative of the book would not have been as good as it was. A prominent idea behind Superman is that he tries to save everyone and anyone he can. Amy, the sister of Alvin, had to deal with the loss of her brother in a town she just moved to. Clark tries to console her and help her grieve, but Amy's character resents feeling like "something that needs to be fixed." This clash between Clark's need to "save" Amy, and Amy's need to be more than that is showcased throughout the novel. It leads into why Jonathan Kent says the quote I posted above. Sometimes people need to save themselves and heal themselves on their own, and that's something Clark learns throughout this book. At the same time, Clark's friend Gil, acts independent and as though he is above the need for aid, while inside he craves people who genuinely care about him. This subtle need for care is also showcased through the graphic novel. The contrast between Amy and Gil here was yet another contrast of personas.
All in all, I think this book was good, but not great. Had it not been for the final act of the graphic novel, I think I would have actually given this a 3 star rating, but the emotional strength of the final arc was worth an upgrade. I would still consider this something to read, especially considering it's a short read.
August 26, 2023
Superman: The Harvests of Youth will be published on October 3, 2023. DC Comics provided an early galley for review.
Grace's artwork along with the colors by Cris Peter capture that small town, midwestern vibe. They contribute to establishing the setting of Smallville which has always been a critical element to the young Superman mythos. Growing up in the Bronze Age of comics, Superboy's adventures were very much a mainstay of my reading. So, in some respects, this book radiates the feeling of "being home".
Grace has also tapped into the high school vibe quite well. Clark, Pete, Lana, Chloe, Gil and Amy all act and sound like teenagers of the most recent generation. The story is clearly set in recent times, with gaming consoles and cell phones and fancy coffees all part of these teens' lifestyle.
The main story line is a heavy one, showing that even the greatest of powers are of little use in certain situations. The themes are something that will especially resonate with younger readers- those who have grown up in the 21st Century with all the challenges their generations have had to endure. It is very much a story of innocence lost and having to wrestle with the complex issues that come with growing towards adulthood. At one point, Clark and Lana are talking about how Clark's parents advised him to cope with the situation. Clark tells her that his parents never had to deal with this stuff when they were young. This sentiment rang true to me. Yes, in the 80's I had classmates in high school who passed before graduation, but it was mostly due to automobile accidents and the like. We compartmentalized emotions and feelings, instead focusing on moving forward. Maybe that isn't always the right way to deal with situations.
Superman: The Harvests of Youth tells a solid story and will definitely resonate with the right audience.
Grace's artwork along with the colors by Cris Peter capture that small town, midwestern vibe. They contribute to establishing the setting of Smallville which has always been a critical element to the young Superman mythos. Growing up in the Bronze Age of comics, Superboy's adventures were very much a mainstay of my reading. So, in some respects, this book radiates the feeling of "being home".
Grace has also tapped into the high school vibe quite well. Clark, Pete, Lana, Chloe, Gil and Amy all act and sound like teenagers of the most recent generation. The story is clearly set in recent times, with gaming consoles and cell phones and fancy coffees all part of these teens' lifestyle.
The main story line is a heavy one, showing that even the greatest of powers are of little use in certain situations. The themes are something that will especially resonate with younger readers- those who have grown up in the 21st Century with all the challenges their generations have had to endure. It is very much a story of innocence lost and having to wrestle with the complex issues that come with growing towards adulthood. At one point, Clark and Lana are talking about how Clark's parents advised him to cope with the situation. Clark tells her that his parents never had to deal with this stuff when they were young. This sentiment rang true to me. Yes, in the 80's I had classmates in high school who passed before graduation, but it was mostly due to automobile accidents and the like. We compartmentalized emotions and feelings, instead focusing on moving forward. Maybe that isn't always the right way to deal with situations.
Superman: The Harvests of Youth tells a solid story and will definitely resonate with the right audience.
August 23, 2023
This is a small town, slice-of-life story that envelopes the "Superman is an alien raised on Earth" narrative, rather than it feeling like either the center of the story or incidental. It IS a big deal to teenage Clark, whose quiet defiance of his parents' rules is one of a hundred choices he has to determine how he balances his powers, destiny, and humanity in a Midwest town that earns its name of Smallville. There are no meteorite-powered classmates, no Starbucks, and a high unemployment rate after factory shutdowns. And there also happens to be a kid with X-ray vision trying to figure out how to be a hero in the absence of villains.
Sina Grace does such a good job of capturing the ways teens can be connected and disconnected. Unlike most media, which acts like the kids disappear when they're not in the same room–and they're almost always in the same room–Grace never forgets each character has an inner and outer life. Lana's independence means that she and Clark are friends who come together as easily as they are apart, and Pete's supportiveness can be overshadowed by sports, video games, and girls. Their abrasive friend Gil lacks empathy over the recent suicide of a classmate, which isn't uncommon in teenagers, and they care about him anyway.
The ways the kids come and go in this feel so much more like my high school experience than most teenage comics, let alone teenage superhero comics.
And I have even't really mentioned the plot yet...which honestly I'm not going to, but you see some familiar faces in new ways that feel as natural as Clark using his super strength and speed to do his chores.
All in all, just a great book that isn't afraid to revel in the quiet moments, and feels like one of the most Superman books I've read in a long time.
Sina Grace does such a good job of capturing the ways teens can be connected and disconnected. Unlike most media, which acts like the kids disappear when they're not in the same room–and they're almost always in the same room–Grace never forgets each character has an inner and outer life. Lana's independence means that she and Clark are friends who come together as easily as they are apart, and Pete's supportiveness can be overshadowed by sports, video games, and girls. Their abrasive friend Gil lacks empathy over the recent suicide of a classmate, which isn't uncommon in teenagers, and they care about him anyway.
The ways the kids come and go in this feel so much more like my high school experience than most teenage comics, let alone teenage superhero comics.
And I have even't really mentioned the plot yet...which honestly I'm not going to, but you see some familiar faces in new ways that feel as natural as Clark using his super strength and speed to do his chores.
All in all, just a great book that isn't afraid to revel in the quiet moments, and feels like one of the most Superman books I've read in a long time.
November 8, 2023
i picked this up on the strength of how much i love sina grace over how much i love superman, but as with all of the dc young reader stuff - i just know teen me would have loved these and felt comforted by these books.
i think there was something really powerful in
it must be hell growing up now in this world of constant online and i think and hope this will be a balm to some readers.
i think there was something really powerful in
it must be hell growing up now in this world of constant online and i think and hope this will be a balm to some readers.
August 29, 2023
Wow! This book was a lot heavier than I was expecting, but in the best way possible.
Clark is a teenager, with all of the worries and all of the angst of a normal teenager, but he has so much more pressure in the form of his powers. He feels over responsible for what everyone is going through because he’s different.
I loved that he worked through some of these self imposed expectations. And how he sort of kept messing up. It was refreshing to see a seemingly perfect character (as perceived by the audience and to some extent the other characters) failed and still picked himself up. The pressure he goes through is relatable, as a former perfectionist. I liked seeing him strive for good while still struggling with perfection.
And seeing him with another love interest, and those worries and nerves that come with early life and dating was sweet.
I’d rec it for teens, but definitely trigger warning for suicide and sibling loss.
Clark is a teenager, with all of the worries and all of the angst of a normal teenager, but he has so much more pressure in the form of his powers. He feels over responsible for what everyone is going through because he’s different.
I loved that he worked through some of these self imposed expectations. And how he sort of kept messing up. It was refreshing to see a seemingly perfect character (as perceived by the audience and to some extent the other characters) failed and still picked himself up. The pressure he goes through is relatable, as a former perfectionist. I liked seeing him strive for good while still struggling with perfection.
And seeing him with another love interest, and those worries and nerves that come with early life and dating was sweet.
I’d rec it for teens, but definitely trigger warning for suicide and sibling loss.
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