Anatomy of a Metahuman

by S.D. Perry, Matthew K. Manning, Ming Doyle (Illustrator)

Explore the powers of DC Comics' greatest characters like never before through stunning anatomical cutaways and in-depth commentary from the Dark Knight.

Concerned about the threat that so-called “metahumans” may pose to the world, Batman has begun compiling a detailed dossier on their incredible physiology and abilities. From villains like Killer Croc, Bane, and Brainiac, to Batman’s own comrades, including Superman and Cyborg, the file brings together the Dark Knight’s fascinating personal theories on the unique anatomical composition of these formidable individuals.

This stunning and unique book delves into the incredible abilities of DC Comics characters like never before. Using beautifully illustrated anatomical cross sections depicting twelve different DC characters, the book, told from Batman’s unique perspective, will explore how these “metahumans” physical makeup differs significantly from that of the average person. From detailed theories on how Superman’s eyes shoot heat rays to an in-depth exploration of how Aquaman is able to breathe under water, the book delves into the deepest secrets of these classic characters. Also featuring chapters on the anatomy and abilities of Doomsday, Aquaman, Swamp Thing, Darkseid, Martian Manhunter, and more, this one-of-a-kind book will change the way you look at metahumans forever.

Genres: Comics, Dc Comics, Graphic Novels, Fiction, Art, Reference, Superheroes

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 18, 2018

About the author

SD Perry (Stephani Danelle, by the way, though she prefers SD or Danelle) has been writing novelizations and tie-ins for most of her adult life. Best known for her work in the shared multiverses of Resident Evil, Star Trek, and Aliens, SD is a horror nerd and an introvert. Her father is acclaimed science fiction author Steve Perry. SD lives with her family in Portland, Oregon.

Reviews

[Siona Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a need coffee table book! Really cool art work and interesting ideas about the biology/anatomy/physiology behind superheros and their superpowers. This suggests that there will be more volumes featuring other characters in the future, so I'll be looking forward to that!

[Sai Charan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"DC Comics: Anatomy of a Metahuman" is a visually stunning book that delves into the powers and physiology of iconic DC Comics characters. The book provides detailed anatomical explanations and illustrations of superheroes and villains from the DC Universe. It offers a unique blend of fiction and science, adding depth and realism to the characters. The book's attention to detail, captivating illustrations, and scientific approach make it a must-have for fans of DC Comics. It offers a fresh perspective on beloved characters and is an engaging addition to any collection.

One thing for sure from the book is that there will and should be a sequel to this book. A continuation to cover more main characters that were missed in this book and to answer the questions raised in this one. And I won't hesitate to buy that.

[wrcarter4 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pre-med in college. I found in that time that I just have a hobby with anatomy not for a full time job. This is everything I had wanted for in this book and SO much more. If you even just like comics, or are a heavy Marvel reader, you can find some deep respect for not only the anatomy breakdowns of these iconic characters but the narrative format in which it’s being broke down. The world is better with this book in it.

[Petr Nakasharal Fabián · Rating 3 out of 5]

Takový pohodový prohlížení. Kdybych byl ten člověk, co se pořád musí šťourat v logice komiksů a fantasy a všechno potřebuje vysvětlený, tak si to asi užiju víc. Takhle mi to přijde spíš úsměvný.
Naprosto boží je ale zpracování knížky. Přebal je plnej termografickýho tisku, ten reliéf je fakt pěknej a v knihovničce se to neztratí.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This wasn't exactly a fast-read, but it was still worth working through nonetheless. Since this book is supposed to be Batman's scientific postulations on a selection of metahumans, it reads... like science. And I'm not really a science person. (There's a reason I majored in communication.) But that didn't mean it wasn't still interesting to read theories on how metahumans would actually function and to, likewise, get inside Batman's head. His paranoia sometimes cracked me up, but really... if you're just a man surrounded by both friends and foes who can do the impossible... wouldn't you want a few contingency plans, too? This work also provided some nice information that I hadn't quite gotten to reading in the actual comic books--some concrete filler for the cracks in my knowledge base. And it was also intriguing to read, form an intellectual standpoint rather than a storytelling one, about certain characters I've not really encountered as often--such as Swamp Thing or Killer Frost. The artwork in this was also stunning. The sketches were incredibly detailed, and I spent more time looking at them than I did reading the text. Though there was a part of me that couldn't help but crack a smile at the idea of Batman--The DARK KNIGHT--working to perfectly sketch Superman's eyes. (In the name of science, of course). But that's beside the point. If you're a fan of comics like I am, but you're looking for something a little different to read that still connects to the canon--specifically if you're looking for a little jaunt into some pseudo-nonfiction--then this is definitely a solid choice.

[Lou]

This is a very interesting/fact finding book of DC Metahuman characters. The analysis is written from Bruce Wayne’s(Batman) viewpoint. Good observations on such characters as Superman, Bane, Martian Manhunter, Darksed, Aquaman, Doomsday, Cyborg and others. Beautiful illustrations and details of each one. Starts each character with a write up of the character, origin, description of their powers, what makes them work, theories, and finally weaknesses, how to combat that individual. Since not all of the characters were cover and in Bruce’s conclusion he lists other heroes and villains. I for one would look forward to another volume.

[Jamie Revell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conceit here is that the book is a compilation of notes written by Bruce Wayne about some of the key superpowered people of his world, with attempts to explain how their powers work, and how best to counter them. It's a large book filled with pictures, notes and marginalia, intended, perhaps, to decorate more than inform, but, if so, that's an aim it succeeds at.

That's not to say that there isn't some genuine science in here, with the text generally being more accurate than the artwork on that front - the latter tends to be somewhat impressionistic. On the whole, though, while there is some fun speculation, it never gets too bogged down in the detail, and necessarily has to be vague about a number of things - both because superpowers obviously aren't possible in the real world, and to avoid appearing to tie the hands of future comic writers too much. (Sure, comic writers are going to ignore anything in here that doesn't fit with their planned story, but it's better not to make that too obvious).

But it's an entertaining read, and it looks really nice. A good-looking coffee table book for the DC fan.

[Alex Hernández · Rating 3 out of 5]

Es entretenido porque se sabe, claramente, que es ficción. Pero, para ser sincero, parece escrito a lo tarugo dejando claro que añadir tecnisismos que no quedaron claros para los autores, pueden dar una mayor impresión apantallante.

Podría decir que este es un buen ejemplo de entretenimiento para que los aficionados a los cómics e interesados en filosofía y ciencia (sobre todo la segunda) aprehendan a tener un sentido crítico de lo que de lee y saber identificar cuando algo apantallante es berborrea pseudocientífica en el lamentable mercado real de ciencias pop.

Están chidos los monos, pero creo que sí dejan muy mal parado a Batman como autor ficticio de esas investigaciones. Lo dejan como un intento de nerd que quiere ser todo y no logra entender nada de lo que estudia. Hay argumentos tan huecos, que son decepcionantes respecto a la imagen general de Batman a lo largo de la historia.

Finalmente, hay unos errores bien pendejos en la edición, la neta. A mí pueden no importarme tanto, pero pues sí no mamen XD. El tomo está muy caro como para caer en errores tan simplones.

[Joe Nava · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book, especially for fans of DC Comics. Written in Batman's point of view, it shares his theories on his metahuman allies and enemies. His paranoia shines through, as he is constantly theorizing how he might be able to take down Justice League members like Superman, Cyborg, and Martian Manhunter. At times the theories could drag a little, as some of them are very much written like an anatomy textbook, but that IS what the book is supposed to be. Ming Doyle's illustrations are fantastic, and he really gets to be creative with the cross sections. Overall a really interesting book and I would look forward to a sequel.

[Gene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perhaps the ultimate reference for a comic book geek. Sometimes the format is hard to read even in the large format, but this is full of interesting information and suppositions with plenty of illustrations. Some examples were not included (Flash) while others that were included(Killer Croc) could have been left out IMO.

[Ian Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun, but ultimately a bit too coffee table (shallow). Gorgeous art, but the selection is a bit odd. I do want to note that this is clearly written in the first year of Rebirth, and the continuity tends to reflect that.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anatomy of a Metahuman is a gorgeously illustrated and beautifully written report-style book on the scientific basis DC's metahuman character's abilities, speculation about physiology, and potential weaknesses. This is a book that I would recommend or gift to someone.

[James Atkison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicely written from the Bats perspective. Looking forward to more volumes

[Mike Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Really cool take.

[Dheeraj · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book from page 1. Interesting read it you're a DC fan

[Abirlal Sinha]

i want to read

[Maff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un interesante relato sobre las habilidades de algunos héroes y villanos del mundo DC, con una pequeña queja de su traducción al español... Algunas partes se quedaron en inglés o se cortaron!!!

[Marc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bruce Wayne / Batman using scientific reasoning to explain the superpowers and abilities of his most powerful friends and foes. Also beautifully illustrated.

[Nicolas Galantini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente, ojala haya un segundo volumen.

[Liberty · Rating 5 out of 5]

A guide to metas written by the Dark Knight? What a fun and informative ride!!!

[James · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some amazing drawings of anatomy and pseudo-anatomy. The origins of powers are based mostly on conjecture but are still interesting.