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Enemies & Allies
“[A] fun read….Batman and Superman meet in this retro-flavored novel set amid the Cold War sensibilities of the 1950s.”
— USA Today The Dark Knight meets the Man of Steel in Enemies & Allies —the thrilling story of the first-ever meeting between Batman and Superman, brilliantly imagined by New York Times bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson. One of today’s most popular writers pits the iconic superheroes against Lex Luthor and the Soviets—and each other—in a spellbinding story of destiny and duty set against the backdrop of America’s Cold War era.
— USA Today The Dark Knight meets the Man of Steel in Enemies & Allies —the thrilling story of the first-ever meeting between Batman and Superman, brilliantly imagined by New York Times bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson. One of today’s most popular writers pits the iconic superheroes against Lex Luthor and the Soviets—and each other—in a spellbinding story of destiny and duty set against the backdrop of America’s Cold War era.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
96 people are currently reading
1591 people want to read
About the author
Kevin J. Anderson
1,042 books3,127 followersYes, I have a lot of books, and if this is your first visit to my amazon author page, it can be a little overwhelming. If you are new to my work, let me recommend a few titles as good places to start. I love my Dan Shamble, Zombie P.I. series, humorous horror/mysteries, which begin with DEATH WARMED OVER. My steampunk fantasy adventures, CLOCKWORK ANGELS and CLOCKWORK LIVES, written with Neil Peart, legendary drummer from Rush, are two of my very favorite novels ever. And my magnum opus, the science fiction epic The Saga of Seven Suns, begins with HIDDEN EMPIRE. After you've tried those, I hope you'll check out some of my other series.
I have written spin-off novels for Star Wars, StarCraft, Titan A.E., and The X-Files, and I'm the co-author of the Dune prequels. My original works include the Saga of Seven Suns series and the Nebula Award-nominated Assemblers of Infinity. I have also written several comic books including the Dark Horse Star Wars collection Tales of the Jedi written in collaboration with Tom Veitch, Predator titles (also for Dark Horse), and X-Files titles for Topps.
I serve as a judge in the Writers of the Future contest.
My wife is author Rebecca Moesta. We currently reside near Monument, Colorado.
I have written spin-off novels for Star Wars, StarCraft, Titan A.E., and The X-Files, and I'm the co-author of the Dune prequels. My original works include the Saga of Seven Suns series and the Nebula Award-nominated Assemblers of Infinity. I have also written several comic books including the Dark Horse Star Wars collection Tales of the Jedi written in collaboration with Tom Veitch, Predator titles (also for Dark Horse), and X-Files titles for Topps.
I serve as a judge in the Writers of the Future contest.
My wife is author Rebecca Moesta. We currently reside near Monument, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
August 4, 2009
Anderson brings fans of Superman and Batman back to the 1950s to present the story of the frist time they worked together. It is a time where the Cold War and the Communist Scare are primary on people's minds. Bruce Wayne is in the early years of his career when he is focusing on the corruption among Gotham City's government and the gangster lords. Clark Kent has just started up at the Daily Planet and is enjoying getting to know Lois Lane.
Lex Luther takes center stage as his various projects infringe on the lives and careers of Clark and Bruce, both their real lives and those centering around their costumes.
Bruce is finding things at Wayne Industries, his father's company and the source of his great wealth, to be difficult. As the years have gone by, the company's board has shifted from a group of dedicated men to those willing to take a bribe and help out Lexcorp. This get Bruce interested in Lex, and the best way to learn about him is to use his alterego, Batman.
Meanwhile, Clark is struggling to get used to the limitations that he can't help everyone when he dons his cape while also being confronted with the new assignment of filling in for the newspaper's advice columnist. He feels lost since he is still not completely sure about what the best answers are to everyone's questions.
Lex's actions get both his and Lois' attentions fairly quickly. Lex has been working with Anatoly Ceridov, a general in the Soviet secret service. They have been working on a plan to use the Cold War to give them more power. The idea is that by heating things up with a nuclear scare, their governments will place more trust in their actions. As you can guess, things don't quite go as they would like once Batman and Superman get involved.
Not surprising, Batman is not really all that trusting of Superman in the early part of the book, particularly with the idea that Superman is claiming to be an alien. Of course, Batman is not the most trusting of superheroes so that is not all that surprising. As the book progresses, the two get to know each other and a close working bond becomes evident.
The book also does a nice job of capturing the tone of the 1950s with the inclusion of Sputnik, Area 51, Nikita Kruschev, Eisenhower, and other references to the period. They are weaved nicely together with the idea that superheroes are becoming a part of that everyday world.
I found the book both enjoyable and intriguing. The characters were allowed to be what they were in the beginning, rather than the overly-dark form that Batman has taken (and even the flawed Superman) in recent years. It is a high romp that represents the Golden Age of DC Comics well. Fans of the two character are not likely to be disappointed.
Lex Luther takes center stage as his various projects infringe on the lives and careers of Clark and Bruce, both their real lives and those centering around their costumes.
Bruce is finding things at Wayne Industries, his father's company and the source of his great wealth, to be difficult. As the years have gone by, the company's board has shifted from a group of dedicated men to those willing to take a bribe and help out Lexcorp. This get Bruce interested in Lex, and the best way to learn about him is to use his alterego, Batman.
Meanwhile, Clark is struggling to get used to the limitations that he can't help everyone when he dons his cape while also being confronted with the new assignment of filling in for the newspaper's advice columnist. He feels lost since he is still not completely sure about what the best answers are to everyone's questions.
Lex's actions get both his and Lois' attentions fairly quickly. Lex has been working with Anatoly Ceridov, a general in the Soviet secret service. They have been working on a plan to use the Cold War to give them more power. The idea is that by heating things up with a nuclear scare, their governments will place more trust in their actions. As you can guess, things don't quite go as they would like once Batman and Superman get involved.
Not surprising, Batman is not really all that trusting of Superman in the early part of the book, particularly with the idea that Superman is claiming to be an alien. Of course, Batman is not the most trusting of superheroes so that is not all that surprising. As the book progresses, the two get to know each other and a close working bond becomes evident.
The book also does a nice job of capturing the tone of the 1950s with the inclusion of Sputnik, Area 51, Nikita Kruschev, Eisenhower, and other references to the period. They are weaved nicely together with the idea that superheroes are becoming a part of that everyday world.
I found the book both enjoyable and intriguing. The characters were allowed to be what they were in the beginning, rather than the overly-dark form that Batman has taken (and even the flawed Superman) in recent years. It is a high romp that represents the Golden Age of DC Comics well. Fans of the two character are not likely to be disappointed.
May 13, 2009
This book is a great addition to the legend of Superman, and now Batman as well. It would appear that Kevin J. Anderson has found yet another series in which to add to wonderfully.
It was nice to see the story take place in the old “Glory Days” of the super-heroes in question. A nice blend of the cultural, as well as governmental mistakes of the fifties with a small hint of modern day social boo-boos as well. Not to mention UFO madness.
The characters were fun and filled with the personality that readers of Superman and Batman have come to expect. Yet they could also give the feel of compassion and misery when faced with peril.
Like “The Last Days of Krypton”, (a “Superman” must-read), the storyline was a tribute to the Superman history and I look forward to reading more of Kevin’s visions of the most powerful man in the universe as well as the “Dark Knight”.
Well done Mr. Anderson!
It was nice to see the story take place in the old “Glory Days” of the super-heroes in question. A nice blend of the cultural, as well as governmental mistakes of the fifties with a small hint of modern day social boo-boos as well. Not to mention UFO madness.
The characters were fun and filled with the personality that readers of Superman and Batman have come to expect. Yet they could also give the feel of compassion and misery when faced with peril.
Like “The Last Days of Krypton”, (a “Superman” must-read), the storyline was a tribute to the Superman history and I look forward to reading more of Kevin’s visions of the most powerful man in the universe as well as the “Dark Knight”.
Well done Mr. Anderson!
June 7, 2018
So when Batman teams up with Superman I like him a lot more. It’s like Superman’s perpetually sunny attitude makes Batman seem less morose and sullen all the time. Still emo, but not a full-time emo.
This story was surprisingly full-bodied and clever. I guess because it was a novel based on comic book heroes I expected it to be a little bit of trash. I was woefully wrong.
Essentially, brilliant and dastardly Lex Luthor has decided to team up with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and then proceeds to wreak havoc on the world. He imperils Superman and messes with Batman’s livelihood (his multi-billion dollar enterprise) and gives Lois Lane a serious run for her money. There were multiple facets that led up to the overall plot, and it made for a suitably compelling read.
Honestly, I’d tell people to read it even if they didn’t much care for superheroes. They’re a bit one-dimensional, but weren’t they always?
This story was surprisingly full-bodied and clever. I guess because it was a novel based on comic book heroes I expected it to be a little bit of trash. I was woefully wrong.
Essentially, brilliant and dastardly Lex Luthor has decided to team up with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and then proceeds to wreak havoc on the world. He imperils Superman and messes with Batman’s livelihood (his multi-billion dollar enterprise) and gives Lois Lane a serious run for her money. There were multiple facets that led up to the overall plot, and it made for a suitably compelling read.
Honestly, I’d tell people to read it even if they didn’t much care for superheroes. They’re a bit one-dimensional, but weren’t they always?
February 14, 2019
That was a good read. I liked the time period. It was cool to see Batman referencing and taking inspiration from guys like Zorro and James Bond.
It felt like real classic Superman and Batman like from when I was growing up.
It felt like real classic Superman and Batman like from when I was growing up.
February 16, 2010
Enemies and Allies sets forth a comic book thriller set in the early 1950s, creating a weird time frame with both Batman and Superman just a couple of years into their superhero gigs (even though both origins are one or two decades earlier, respectively). They're both still figuring out how to make their own lives work when they both stumble upon a plot involving Lex Luthor, a rogue Communist general, Area 51, unbelievably advanced technology, and, they each believe, the other vigilante. This makes them enemies. Until they, inevitably, become allies.
This is a cool setup. And I wanted it to work. There are some nice mid-century touches. The novel format should allow us a bit deeper into each man's head than a comic usually does. I liked the chance to play amateur psychologist with these guys.
But the writing gets in the way, and so does the plot. There are huge sections where the author seems to have forgotten the old writing chestnut: show, don't tell. He explains everything. Sometimes before something happens. Sometimes without giving a plausible chain of events. Things just happen. This managed to ruin any chance I had of enjoying the formulaic plot, which seemed borrowed from any number of sources, including Watchmen.
With interesting storytelling, I could have easily lost myself in the hackneyed plot and allowed it to unfold. Instead, I found myself almost screaming, just tell the story, and then skipping over whole sections where I was pretty sure I knew what was going on (especially the pointless Lois Lane and Jimmy Olson side plots). Anderson must be a better writer than this, otherwise they wouldn't keep letting him into major franchises like Dune, Star Wars, and Star Trek. But I almost felt like he was writing down a couple of grade levels, down to the level of someone's idea of today's early adolescents. But the book is not marketed that way and was not worthy of the knowledgeable, educated comic fans, both teen and adult, who are the book's real target audience.
This is a cool setup. And I wanted it to work. There are some nice mid-century touches. The novel format should allow us a bit deeper into each man's head than a comic usually does. I liked the chance to play amateur psychologist with these guys.
But the writing gets in the way, and so does the plot. There are huge sections where the author seems to have forgotten the old writing chestnut: show, don't tell. He explains everything. Sometimes before something happens. Sometimes without giving a plausible chain of events. Things just happen. This managed to ruin any chance I had of enjoying the formulaic plot, which seemed borrowed from any number of sources, including Watchmen.
With interesting storytelling, I could have easily lost myself in the hackneyed plot and allowed it to unfold. Instead, I found myself almost screaming, just tell the story, and then skipping over whole sections where I was pretty sure I knew what was going on (especially the pointless Lois Lane and Jimmy Olson side plots). Anderson must be a better writer than this, otherwise they wouldn't keep letting him into major franchises like Dune, Star Wars, and Star Trek. But I almost felt like he was writing down a couple of grade levels, down to the level of someone's idea of today's early adolescents. But the book is not marketed that way and was not worthy of the knowledgeable, educated comic fans, both teen and adult, who are the book's real target audience.
January 27, 2009
Picked up an ARC at a library conference and ripped through it on the plane home. I haven't read much (any?) Anderson, although I know of him, but I have read loads of Batman stories. Overall, it was a light, enjoyable read suitable for a plane or the beach but it didn't do anything really all that special. In fact, one can easily find elements straight from Golden Age, The New Frontier, and Watchmen and I felt a little disappointed at that. Still, if it falls in your hands, it's not a bad way to pass a couple of hours.
April 23, 2017
That was a disappointment. I could have been able to accept it, if it was either really bad or really good, but it was just very very average.
I couldn't care for any others characters except for Batman and Superman. Every other character and viewpoint was just annoying and didn't add anything. While Lois Lane is an important character for the story, I have never found her more annoying. I don't know why that is or maybe simply she was written that way.
That ending was rather very good though. Gave a whole star for that ending. Overall, just an average DC story with Bats and Supes which could have been great but falls short of its own ambitions.
I couldn't care for any others characters except for Batman and Superman. Every other character and viewpoint was just annoying and didn't add anything. While Lois Lane is an important character for the story, I have never found her more annoying. I don't know why that is or maybe simply she was written that way.
That ending was rather very good though. Gave a whole star for that ending. Overall, just an average DC story with Bats and Supes which could have been great but falls short of its own ambitions.
March 28, 2017
(4.8)
This novelization is written in the time period of the 1950s. Though there's not much actual fighting, it's a good mystery which reflex who Batman was originally. (DC stands for 'Detective Comics.') There's no language or sexual content, which is a big plus. Finally, I really don't like Lois Lane, but in this novel she's 85% functioning adult who knows how to be professional, and only 15% Superman fangirl. I was extremely thankful for that.
Recommended 11+ for Lex Luthor and murder.
This novelization is written in the time period of the 1950s. Though there's not much actual fighting, it's a good mystery which reflex who Batman was originally. (DC stands for 'Detective Comics.') There's no language or sexual content, which is a big plus. Finally, I really don't like Lois Lane, but in this novel she's 85% functioning adult who knows how to be professional, and only 15% Superman fangirl. I was extremely thankful for that.
Recommended 11+ for Lex Luthor and murder.
June 28, 2019
A solid superhero novel, Kevin J. Anderson is great at media tie-in novels and ENEMIES & ALLIES is no exception. I liked the novel mostly. Set in the late-1950s—an alternative 1950s—the novel gives us a Batman and Superman who aren’t only new to the superhero game but are also in a “more innocent” time. The characterizations are good, the action is good, too. The novel moved a little too slowly for my liking and I never really felt that Superman and Batman came together as well as I’d wished they could have. Perhaps the novel’s length had something to do with it. I LOVED Anderson’s LAST SON OF KRYPTON, which is a superior novel, but ENEMIES & ALLIES is also quite good. I honestly wish there was a sequel, because I’d love to see these heroes navigate the early-1960s in a follow-up.
Basically, a good book, great for a quick read, but not as stellar as I’d hoped based on past experience with Anderson’s novels. Solid entertainment, nonetheless.
Basically, a good book, great for a quick read, but not as stellar as I’d hoped based on past experience with Anderson’s novels. Solid entertainment, nonetheless.
August 14, 2012
I really liked this book. Sorry. Bad beginning, but I wasn't sure how to begin, and four stars is labeled "really liked it"...Okay cheesy. But it makes me smile. :)
Anderson does a good job with these characters. I've never read novelizations of either Superman or Batman, and generally avoid such (my few experiences having been less than memorable). I found the setting of the novel in the fifties interesting. It works well, but especially with DC and Marvel's attempts to keep their characters simultaneously current and timeless it surprised me. Still the setting helped to cement that these were young versions of Superman and Batman and that saved what would otherwise feel like errors in the book.
Some of my fellow reviewers complained that the book is campy, and in spots I can see their point. However, as someone who has read reprints of the early comics, this captures the feel of early Superman and Batman adventures, and, believe me, it's far LESS campy than those comics were.
By showing us a young Superman and a young Batman, Anderson is able to draw upon the character's well established history for feel and character, and also sketch out a true character arch for each. So if Bruce introduces himself as "Wayne, Bruce Wayne" and makes repeated references to James Bond, so what? Bruce Wayne is a character, a mask Batman puts on when he has to go out in public and can't wear his uniform, his real face. We get to watch as Batman raises his sights beyond "Crime Alley" to encompass big-picture crime as well, and we see Superman gain in wisdom and realize that just because he was raised with a tremendous respect for the law and tremendous integrity doesn't mean that those in power share his integrity. I particularly enjoyed Anderson's portrayal of Luthor, and his almost pathological self-obsession. He's easily as much fun to read as Batman or Superman.
My one small frustration (it is a four rating, not a five) was with Superman's thinking of himself as Kal-El. He was raised as Clark Kent. He only found out about his heritage in any detail much later. In every other depiction of Superman I've ever seen he IS Clark Kent and Kal-El is at best like an unused middle name or nick-name. An important fact, but almost unattached to the identity of the young man raised by Jonathon and Martha Kent in Smallville. While it makes sense that Clark, as a man, especially a man of the fifties would find a "Lorna for the Lovelorn" column a challenge to write and relate to, that is not a question of his not being human. If anything, the paradox of Superman is that in many ways, despite his vast powers he is the MOST human of superheroes.
Still, this is a small quibble with a very fun book. If you like Batman and Superman and enjoy the feel touches of the feel of those truly classic golden age comics, this book will be a lot of fun.
Anderson does a good job with these characters. I've never read novelizations of either Superman or Batman, and generally avoid such (my few experiences having been less than memorable). I found the setting of the novel in the fifties interesting. It works well, but especially with DC and Marvel's attempts to keep their characters simultaneously current and timeless it surprised me. Still the setting helped to cement that these were young versions of Superman and Batman and that saved what would otherwise feel like errors in the book.
Some of my fellow reviewers complained that the book is campy, and in spots I can see their point. However, as someone who has read reprints of the early comics, this captures the feel of early Superman and Batman adventures, and, believe me, it's far LESS campy than those comics were.
By showing us a young Superman and a young Batman, Anderson is able to draw upon the character's well established history for feel and character, and also sketch out a true character arch for each. So if Bruce introduces himself as "Wayne, Bruce Wayne" and makes repeated references to James Bond, so what? Bruce Wayne is a character, a mask Batman puts on when he has to go out in public and can't wear his uniform, his real face. We get to watch as Batman raises his sights beyond "Crime Alley" to encompass big-picture crime as well, and we see Superman gain in wisdom and realize that just because he was raised with a tremendous respect for the law and tremendous integrity doesn't mean that those in power share his integrity. I particularly enjoyed Anderson's portrayal of Luthor, and his almost pathological self-obsession. He's easily as much fun to read as Batman or Superman.
My one small frustration (it is a four rating, not a five) was with Superman's thinking of himself as Kal-El. He was raised as Clark Kent. He only found out about his heritage in any detail much later. In every other depiction of Superman I've ever seen he IS Clark Kent and Kal-El is at best like an unused middle name or nick-name. An important fact, but almost unattached to the identity of the young man raised by Jonathon and Martha Kent in Smallville. While it makes sense that Clark, as a man, especially a man of the fifties would find a "Lorna for the Lovelorn" column a challenge to write and relate to, that is not a question of his not being human. If anything, the paradox of Superman is that in many ways, despite his vast powers he is the MOST human of superheroes.
Still, this is a small quibble with a very fun book. If you like Batman and Superman and enjoy the feel touches of the feel of those truly classic golden age comics, this book will be a lot of fun.
August 20, 2013
Enemies and Allies: When Superman and Batman go from Fights to Friendship
So in the late 1950’s, a recently debuted epic hero Superman met for the first time a newly minted vigilante Batman. They argue and fight and finally work together and become friends, all in order to save the day.
And to address all those glares from the collective masses who plan to revoke my Geek card, I am of course referring to the alternative history story Enemies and Allies by Kevin J. Anderson. What we get is the following: Superman, Batman, Lois Lane, Lex Luther, The 1950’s. All in over 300 pages designed for full throttled fan excitement.
The story picks up in the late 1950’s with our world’s finest duo having already been operating for abit of time, and each dealing with individual issues both personal, superheroic and professional. Bits and pieces of the nefarious Lex Luther’s evil plot keep dribbling out to Superman and Batman, with neither man figuring out the complete picture. Lois does her plucky best to fill in the puzzle as well, but not once does these three compare notes.
And that is because the animosity our Man of Steel and Dark Knight have for each other is very palpable. Superman believes Batman is a common thief. Batman thinks Superman is in the employ of Luther. Cue fights and arguments.
As their accidental meet-ups continue, a slow understanding, dare we saw quasi-friendship, develops, culminating in the sensational team-up against Luther. All to save the world. None of that is a spoiler by the way, since we all know the whole point of this book, a concept even the title reflects, is how these buddies come to be.
Which is the strength of Enemies and Allies. The book strives to encapsulate the separate heroes philosophies and methods, with multiple conversations, sometimes heated, occurring. So no, we do not get the oft repeated page after page battle between then two that so many other writers use as a crutch of massive proportions. Because when you get right down to it, without Kryptonite, Batman would be Bat Smush in a fight.
Anderson keeps the action moving fairly swiftly after the first confrontation between the two, with particular emphasis on the how of Batman being showcased. And when Superman is being truly super, you can feel the George Reeves vibe most definitely.
In fact, I realized very early on that this story was not just aimed at diehard Geeks of all stripes, but also this would appeal to young non-geek teens who want a dashing adventure story as well. And for those who like period dramas, the history lessons that permeate the story do not hurt either.
Enemies and Allies is a fun, light read which gives us a quick look into the psyches behind the cowl and the glasses. Anderson has a mission and completes it. Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne would approve.
So in the late 1950’s, a recently debuted epic hero Superman met for the first time a newly minted vigilante Batman. They argue and fight and finally work together and become friends, all in order to save the day.
And to address all those glares from the collective masses who plan to revoke my Geek card, I am of course referring to the alternative history story Enemies and Allies by Kevin J. Anderson. What we get is the following: Superman, Batman, Lois Lane, Lex Luther, The 1950’s. All in over 300 pages designed for full throttled fan excitement.
The story picks up in the late 1950’s with our world’s finest duo having already been operating for abit of time, and each dealing with individual issues both personal, superheroic and professional. Bits and pieces of the nefarious Lex Luther’s evil plot keep dribbling out to Superman and Batman, with neither man figuring out the complete picture. Lois does her plucky best to fill in the puzzle as well, but not once does these three compare notes.
And that is because the animosity our Man of Steel and Dark Knight have for each other is very palpable. Superman believes Batman is a common thief. Batman thinks Superman is in the employ of Luther. Cue fights and arguments.
As their accidental meet-ups continue, a slow understanding, dare we saw quasi-friendship, develops, culminating in the sensational team-up against Luther. All to save the world. None of that is a spoiler by the way, since we all know the whole point of this book, a concept even the title reflects, is how these buddies come to be.
Which is the strength of Enemies and Allies. The book strives to encapsulate the separate heroes philosophies and methods, with multiple conversations, sometimes heated, occurring. So no, we do not get the oft repeated page after page battle between then two that so many other writers use as a crutch of massive proportions. Because when you get right down to it, without Kryptonite, Batman would be Bat Smush in a fight.
Anderson keeps the action moving fairly swiftly after the first confrontation between the two, with particular emphasis on the how of Batman being showcased. And when Superman is being truly super, you can feel the George Reeves vibe most definitely.
In fact, I realized very early on that this story was not just aimed at diehard Geeks of all stripes, but also this would appeal to young non-geek teens who want a dashing adventure story as well. And for those who like period dramas, the history lessons that permeate the story do not hurt either.
Enemies and Allies is a fun, light read which gives us a quick look into the psyches behind the cowl and the glasses. Anderson has a mission and completes it. Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne would approve.
September 5, 2011
When I saw this at library, I had to pick it up. The writing was uninspiring, but the plot was entertaining enough to keep me reading. Anderson writes the characters as their Golden Age selves, which means if you're looking for a more contemporary, more serious take on Superman and Batman, this isn't the tie-in novel you're looking for.
For an alleged "crossover," Anderson heavily favors the Superman cast. Batman's main contribution to the plot is Bats felt more like a supporting character than a main protagonist. Though perhaps this was for the best, as Anderson writes Superman a lot better than he writes Batman. At too many points, Batman read like a caricature of himself.
Anderson name-drops a few celebrities who were alive during the fifties, but never really puts much effort into convincing his reader this story is set in the past. (Also name-dropping two Batman villains does not true crossover make.) I will admit, though, reading about Marilyn Monroe discussing her opinion of the Batman with Bruce Wayne amused me to no end.
Yet despite these issues, I still enjoyed it. Superman and Batman had some amusing interactions and Alfred, when he appeared, was a treat. The Cold War angle didn't feel too over the top (which was a shock). I loved corporate feuding between LexCorp and Wayne Enterprises. The fact that Luthor was causing problems for both Batman and Bruce Wayne really gave the crossover aspect more weight. And personally, I would love to read a Lex Luthor/Batman crossover without Supes, because Luthor is so different from the Batman's usual antagonists. But I digress.
Overall it was fun, though definitely nothing ground-breaking for DC fans. I liked it, but I wouldn't buy it. If you want to read it, I'd suggest checking your local library for a copy.
For an alleged "crossover," Anderson heavily favors the Superman cast. Batman's main contribution to the plot is Bats felt more like a supporting character than a main protagonist. Though perhaps this was for the best, as Anderson writes Superman a lot better than he writes Batman. At too many points, Batman read like a caricature of himself.
Anderson name-drops a few celebrities who were alive during the fifties, but never really puts much effort into convincing his reader this story is set in the past. (Also name-dropping two Batman villains does not true crossover make.) I will admit, though, reading about Marilyn Monroe discussing her opinion of the Batman with Bruce Wayne amused me to no end.
Yet despite these issues, I still enjoyed it. Superman and Batman had some amusing interactions and Alfred, when he appeared, was a treat. The Cold War angle didn't feel too over the top (which was a shock). I loved corporate feuding between LexCorp and Wayne Enterprises. The fact that Luthor was causing problems for both Batman and Bruce Wayne really gave the crossover aspect more weight. And personally, I would love to read a Lex Luthor/Batman crossover without Supes, because Luthor is so different from the Batman's usual antagonists. But I digress.
Overall it was fun, though definitely nothing ground-breaking for DC fans. I liked it, but I wouldn't buy it. If you want to read it, I'd suggest checking your local library for a copy.
September 13, 2015
Just About as Perfect as It Could Be (A Review of the Audiobook)
Published by GraphicAudio in 2013
Multicast Performance
Duration: about 6 hours
Adapted from the original book.
As D.C. Comics gears up for their big Batman vs. Superman release next year it is interesting to look at how these two iconic characters ever ended up meeting, working together and then become trusted allies.
I grew up in the era when Superfriends and the Justice League were Saturday morning mainstays. Unfortunately, these were horrible days for the Batman franchise. Batman was reduced to being a sidekick of Superman with his only saving grace being that he was the only sidekick with a sidekick (Robin). The first Micheal Keaton Batman movie brought a dark side to the character that had probably never been seen on screen.
Batman has trust issues. He is secretive and he is often the only force for justice in a city that perverts the law to do the work of evil men. He must work in secrecy and hide in the shadows. This audiobook captures that side of Batman perfectly.
The spirit of Superman was captured well in the old TV show and in the Christopher Reeve movies. Those movies had plenty of issues but I have not heard of anyone that does not think the Reeve nailed the character of Superman perfectly. But, for some reason, modern movie makers have had a hard time understanding this iconic character. It's not hard. He is the ultimate Boy Scout and he is internally motivated to be that way. He is the guy that does the right thing all of the time. He is powerful because of his genetics. He is good because of his upbringing by his adopted parents. This audiobook understands Superman and captures his personality perfectly.
But, what happens when the Gee Whiz! Aw, Shucks farm boy meets the man who wears a scary costume and works out of the shadows?
If you like your Superhero tales told in the classic form (I do - I am something of a comics Fundamentalist), you will...
Read more at: http://dwdsreviews.blogspot.com/2015/...
Published by GraphicAudio in 2013
Multicast Performance
Duration: about 6 hours
Adapted from the original book.
As D.C. Comics gears up for their big Batman vs. Superman release next year it is interesting to look at how these two iconic characters ever ended up meeting, working together and then become trusted allies.
I grew up in the era when Superfriends and the Justice League were Saturday morning mainstays. Unfortunately, these were horrible days for the Batman franchise. Batman was reduced to being a sidekick of Superman with his only saving grace being that he was the only sidekick with a sidekick (Robin). The first Micheal Keaton Batman movie brought a dark side to the character that had probably never been seen on screen.
Batman has trust issues. He is secretive and he is often the only force for justice in a city that perverts the law to do the work of evil men. He must work in secrecy and hide in the shadows. This audiobook captures that side of Batman perfectly.
The spirit of Superman was captured well in the old TV show and in the Christopher Reeve movies. Those movies had plenty of issues but I have not heard of anyone that does not think the Reeve nailed the character of Superman perfectly. But, for some reason, modern movie makers have had a hard time understanding this iconic character. It's not hard. He is the ultimate Boy Scout and he is internally motivated to be that way. He is the guy that does the right thing all of the time. He is powerful because of his genetics. He is good because of his upbringing by his adopted parents. This audiobook understands Superman and captures his personality perfectly.
But, what happens when the Gee Whiz! Aw, Shucks farm boy meets the man who wears a scary costume and works out of the shadows?
If you like your Superhero tales told in the classic form (I do - I am something of a comics Fundamentalist), you will...
Read more at: http://dwdsreviews.blogspot.com/2015/...
May 13, 2009
Kevin J. Anderson brings readers a fun and exciting read with Enemies and Allies. This book takes and incorporates two of the best superheroes and pits them together to fight a mutual enemy...Lex Luther.
Lex Luther is constructing a nuclear reactor that could destroy the world. It seems that while building this reactor that he has discovered Superman's weakness to Kryptonite. The funny thing is that Lex doesn't know he possess in his hands the very thing that could bring down Superman. Lex Luther's plans though do not go un-noticed. In fact his plan to make LuthorCor the number one company has raised red flags with LuthorCor's rival competitor...Wayne Industries. Multi-millionaire playboy Bruce Wayne does not like with Lex is up to and decides to take matters into his own hands as Batman. Batman gets a helping hand when he and Superman team up to take on the bad guys in Enemies and Allies.
I have to admit that I love all the great superheroes of the past. I grew up during a time when as a children you lived for Saturday mornings for the cartoons. So for me I was very excited to pick up a copy of this book to read. While I did enjoy reading Enemies and Allies, I was surprised to discover that the story took place at the beginning. A time when Clark Kent was just learning about his powers and who he really is and where he came from. So because of this aspect, I felt that Batman was more superior then Superman. Of course I still won't want to be Lex as he takes both of these heroes on. Talk about a major handicap match. Though so of the events that took place in the story were not accurate, Mr. Anderson stayed pretty true to the men behind the capes. So after all the dust has settled and the good guys end up on top, all I have to say is give me more.
Lex Luther is constructing a nuclear reactor that could destroy the world. It seems that while building this reactor that he has discovered Superman's weakness to Kryptonite. The funny thing is that Lex doesn't know he possess in his hands the very thing that could bring down Superman. Lex Luther's plans though do not go un-noticed. In fact his plan to make LuthorCor the number one company has raised red flags with LuthorCor's rival competitor...Wayne Industries. Multi-millionaire playboy Bruce Wayne does not like with Lex is up to and decides to take matters into his own hands as Batman. Batman gets a helping hand when he and Superman team up to take on the bad guys in Enemies and Allies.
I have to admit that I love all the great superheroes of the past. I grew up during a time when as a children you lived for Saturday mornings for the cartoons. So for me I was very excited to pick up a copy of this book to read. While I did enjoy reading Enemies and Allies, I was surprised to discover that the story took place at the beginning. A time when Clark Kent was just learning about his powers and who he really is and where he came from. So because of this aspect, I felt that Batman was more superior then Superman. Of course I still won't want to be Lex as he takes both of these heroes on. Talk about a major handicap match. Though so of the events that took place in the story were not accurate, Mr. Anderson stayed pretty true to the men behind the capes. So after all the dust has settled and the good guys end up on top, all I have to say is give me more.
May 24, 2009
As a big KJA fan, I was disappointed. It was just too lightweight. At page 200 nothing had even happened yet! Most of the book was background and skirmishes that set up the "big conflict" that never really happened. Yes, Batman and Superman finally met. I enjoyed that they were suspicious of each others' actions and motives, it made a lot of sense. But there is very little action or substance to the book, it was like cotton candy. The only thing that makes sense to me is if it is the start of a series; that woudl somewhat justify the amount of time spent establishing these very familiar characters' "current" situations.
It also really bothered me that Lois is vapid. Tenacious about getting a story, but madly and idiotically in love with Superman after 2 brief meetings.
The other big question I have is the relevance of the basic premise to younger people. The book is set in the 1950s and the Cold War is the underlying tension throughout the story. The era was lovingly reproduced, with especially vivid references to then-current technology. But I wonder if this has any urgency or resonance to people under 25 or so. I recently had to try to explain the USSR and Cold War to a young kid and was shocked to realize that it has absolutely no relevance to him. He'd never heard of the USSR at all! The central fear and political reality of my childhood (I'm almost 40) is no more real to him than The French Revolution. I'll be interested to read reviews from younger people and see if they enjoyed the historical setting or if it alienated them from the story.
It also really bothered me that Lois is vapid. Tenacious about getting a story, but madly and idiotically in love with Superman after 2 brief meetings.
The other big question I have is the relevance of the basic premise to younger people. The book is set in the 1950s and the Cold War is the underlying tension throughout the story. The era was lovingly reproduced, with especially vivid references to then-current technology. But I wonder if this has any urgency or resonance to people under 25 or so. I recently had to try to explain the USSR and Cold War to a young kid and was shocked to realize that it has absolutely no relevance to him. He'd never heard of the USSR at all! The central fear and political reality of my childhood (I'm almost 40) is no more real to him than The French Revolution. I'll be interested to read reviews from younger people and see if they enjoyed the historical setting or if it alienated them from the story.
June 23, 2016
The first meeting of the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions in the late 1950s.
I've been a fan of Batman and Superman for almost as long as I can remember. I've consumed countless Batman and Superman stories across comics, novels, cartoons, and live-action film. I can say, without reservation, that Enemies and Allies is one of the best Batman/Superman team-up stories that I have ever read! Author Kevin J. Anderson gets these characters. He truly understands them, their history, and the world they inhabit. He's obviously a huge fan, and it shows. I loved this novel. There was something that made me smile on almost every page.
Enemies & Allies is not a perfect novel, by any means. There are a few subplots that go nowhere. Anderson's prose get's a bit repetitious at times, and he has a bad habit of violating the "show don't tell" rule. The ending is also a bit rushed. However, these issues truly seem minor when compared to the joy and entertainment I got from this story. It's the literary equivalent of a superhero popcorn flick: If you're looking for "high art", you're in the wrong place, but if you want a fast, fun, unashamed superhero tale, look no further.
I wholeheartedly recommend Enemies & Allies to any fan of DC Comics and its characters. This is my first Kevin J. Anderson novel, and I look forward to reading more of his work.
I've been a fan of Batman and Superman for almost as long as I can remember. I've consumed countless Batman and Superman stories across comics, novels, cartoons, and live-action film. I can say, without reservation, that Enemies and Allies is one of the best Batman/Superman team-up stories that I have ever read! Author Kevin J. Anderson gets these characters. He truly understands them, their history, and the world they inhabit. He's obviously a huge fan, and it shows. I loved this novel. There was something that made me smile on almost every page.
Enemies & Allies is not a perfect novel, by any means. There are a few subplots that go nowhere. Anderson's prose get's a bit repetitious at times, and he has a bad habit of violating the "show don't tell" rule. The ending is also a bit rushed. However, these issues truly seem minor when compared to the joy and entertainment I got from this story. It's the literary equivalent of a superhero popcorn flick: If you're looking for "high art", you're in the wrong place, but if you want a fast, fun, unashamed superhero tale, look no further.
I wholeheartedly recommend Enemies & Allies to any fan of DC Comics and its characters. This is my first Kevin J. Anderson novel, and I look forward to reading more of his work.
June 10, 2009
I had been searching for this book since it came out early May. But alas, the bookstores here did not carry it then. It took me at least a week more before I chanced upon it while it was on bargain.
Thanks to my lofty expectations, I felt that this book fell short. I have to hand it to Kevin Anderson to fit in interesting tidbits of popular culture in the 50's into the novel -- things like the Sputnik, the great comet blast in Russia, Area 51, alien movies, etc. But other than that, it did not deliver. Perhaps because I am such a big Superman/Batman fan that the author's attempts in making the Big 2's encounter more memorable appear to be too insignificant and uninteresting. As a fan, I demanded to see more from this encounter because I know how these two superheroes actually met in the real DC Comics Universe. How can I forgot how Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne bunked together in a cabin cruiser? Then, there's the first meeting of the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel in the Cartoon (TV) Universe, with Bruce visiting Metropolis and sweeping Lois off her feet. Another interesting angle.
Then, there's this novel. The painful truth is that this novel did not present anything novel (or intersting for that matter) to the material. But, it was a pleasant read though. Not exciting, but pleasant.
Thanks to my lofty expectations, I felt that this book fell short. I have to hand it to Kevin Anderson to fit in interesting tidbits of popular culture in the 50's into the novel -- things like the Sputnik, the great comet blast in Russia, Area 51, alien movies, etc. But other than that, it did not deliver. Perhaps because I am such a big Superman/Batman fan that the author's attempts in making the Big 2's encounter more memorable appear to be too insignificant and uninteresting. As a fan, I demanded to see more from this encounter because I know how these two superheroes actually met in the real DC Comics Universe. How can I forgot how Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne bunked together in a cabin cruiser? Then, there's the first meeting of the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel in the Cartoon (TV) Universe, with Bruce visiting Metropolis and sweeping Lois off her feet. Another interesting angle.
Then, there's this novel. The painful truth is that this novel did not present anything novel (or intersting for that matter) to the material. But, it was a pleasant read though. Not exciting, but pleasant.
June 24, 2013
This novel's one redeeming quality: Batman. By far, and long my favorite superhero (even before the Chris Nolan film trilogy), Batman is written true to form in his quest for justice. He even contemplates Superman's integrity when the Man of Steel reveals that he is an alien. Set in the 1950's, this novel allows its readers to see the two superheroes meet for the first time, and I suspect Batman's suspicious reaction to Superman is as real to his Dark Knight persona as possible. If the truth be known, I thought Superman was well developed too as he often questions his "alien" place in his new found home. But that is where the positive attributes of this novel end.
The story is too hockey and overdone to illicit any real tension. Lex Luthor, the criminal mastermind, devises an evil "take over the World" plot that is so far fetched and easily foiled that one begins to ponder the "evil mastermind" sobriquet given to him.
Look, I didn't expect Man Booker Award winning writing here, but I expected to be entertained a bit more by a book written, presumably, for adults, but sadly, more suitable for junior high readers.
The story is too hockey and overdone to illicit any real tension. Lex Luthor, the criminal mastermind, devises an evil "take over the World" plot that is so far fetched and easily foiled that one begins to ponder the "evil mastermind" sobriquet given to him.
Look, I didn't expect Man Booker Award winning writing here, but I expected to be entertained a bit more by a book written, presumably, for adults, but sadly, more suitable for junior high readers.
January 4, 2013
Back in the '50s, comics were stuck in a kid friendly place. The real world of the '50s was anything but. The rise of rock 'n roll, new ideas, new ways of thinking, and of course new fears were common place in the world that many seen as innocent and quiet. It wasn't really a "leave it to beaver" world. This book takes those ideas of the more realistic '50s, and combines them with two of the most iconic heroes in comics. Superman (the writer calls him by his kryptonian name, Kal-El whenever he's in costume), and The Batman. Both heroes are very different, and find themselves in a dark conspiracy involving the russians, lex luthor, and aliens, in a bid for world power.
Not much in the book screams "HEY! it's the '50s!" at you, but gives you a nod toward what time line this takes place in. Instead of Batman and Robin fighting plant aliens from dimention z, or superman facing a version of himself from a retro-future 1999, we have the more real deal.
A fun read, check it out.
Not much in the book screams "HEY! it's the '50s!" at you, but gives you a nod toward what time line this takes place in. Instead of Batman and Robin fighting plant aliens from dimention z, or superman facing a version of himself from a retro-future 1999, we have the more real deal.
A fun read, check it out.
October 12, 2019
Enemies & Allies is an amazing story, that will take readers on a journey, and keep them interested all the way to the end.
Anderson portrays the classic heroes, Batman & Superman, in a novel set in the 1950’s. Enemies & Allies tells a story of caped crusaders, communism, & corporate espionage.
Anderson staying true to the characters, while also throwing them into unknown situations is very enjoyable, and will interest any Batman/Superman fan. Another great thing about the novel is the several historical allusions and references that are worked into it.
The setting and imagery of the novel significantly enhance it. Anderson not only accurately portrays the 1950s, he also portrays places involving the characters, like Gotham & Metropolis. He uses imagery to enhance the settings, and make the story believable and something readers can get engulfed in.
Anyone who is a fan of Batman or Superman should read this novel, and I highly recommend it to them.
Anderson portrays the classic heroes, Batman & Superman, in a novel set in the 1950’s. Enemies & Allies tells a story of caped crusaders, communism, & corporate espionage.
Anderson staying true to the characters, while also throwing them into unknown situations is very enjoyable, and will interest any Batman/Superman fan. Another great thing about the novel is the several historical allusions and references that are worked into it.
The setting and imagery of the novel significantly enhance it. Anderson not only accurately portrays the 1950s, he also portrays places involving the characters, like Gotham & Metropolis. He uses imagery to enhance the settings, and make the story believable and something readers can get engulfed in.
Anyone who is a fan of Batman or Superman should read this novel, and I highly recommend it to them.
August 22, 2021
I really enjoyed Kevin J. Anderson's Enemies & Allies. I found it to be one of the most enjoyable team-ups of The World's Finest.
Set against The Cold War of the late '50's, with Sputnik in the skies above and The Red Menace lurking in every shadow, The Dark Knight and The Man of Steel meet to confront Lex Luthor. Anderson cleverly mixes in a little Ian Fleming - Bruce Wayne is a fan of his novels, even enjoying a Vesper, "shaken, not stirred". Luthor comes across as Dr. No, with a Caribbean island base with a legendary "dragon". Lois Lane comes across as somewhat of a Bond-lady; but not so much a damsel in distress, as an adventurer - a Diana Prince sans the super powers.
I heard Kevin Conroy as Batman, Tim Daly as Superman and Clancy Brown as Luthor.
I imagined this draw by Steve Rude.
In an alternate reality, the live action adaptation dominated the box office.
Set against The Cold War of the late '50's, with Sputnik in the skies above and The Red Menace lurking in every shadow, The Dark Knight and The Man of Steel meet to confront Lex Luthor. Anderson cleverly mixes in a little Ian Fleming - Bruce Wayne is a fan of his novels, even enjoying a Vesper, "shaken, not stirred". Luthor comes across as Dr. No, with a Caribbean island base with a legendary "dragon". Lois Lane comes across as somewhat of a Bond-lady; but not so much a damsel in distress, as an adventurer - a Diana Prince sans the super powers.
I heard Kevin Conroy as Batman, Tim Daly as Superman and Clancy Brown as Luthor.
I imagined this draw by Steve Rude.
In an alternate reality, the live action adaptation dominated the box office.
October 30, 2009
I really enjoyed this for what it was, which was fairly mindless distraction reading. The short chapters zip by, with handy bat or "S" logos on the front of each to let you know whose storyline you're following. I loved the idea of setting Superman and Batman's introduction to each other and to the world as superheroes in the height of the Cold War. None of the other characters have much depth, which is a shame in the case of Lois Lane, since we're in her POV for part of the time. The story is predictable, but the book is fun for the one-liners, cameos and in jokes. It's also squeaky clean in the s-e-x department (although there are some gruesome mutated monsters), which would mean parents might be willing to try it for reluctant middle-school readers.
May 10, 2013
Gotta admit, I've read this book three times now. It's such a quick, easy read, and it's always fun to read about Batman and Superman working together! Overall it's really just a guilty pleasure kind of read, good for a few short hours of distraction. Granted it takes a bit too long for Batman and Superman to actually team up; they spend the majority of the book being distrusting of each other and working separate, if not at odds with one another.
Also sometimes it's a bit shallow, never delving quite as deep into the characters as it could have. Still, overall it's not a bad read, and I'd recommend it if a) you're a fan of these two heroes, and b) you're looking for a quick, easy read to take up a few hours of your day.
Also sometimes it's a bit shallow, never delving quite as deep into the characters as it could have. Still, overall it's not a bad read, and I'd recommend it if a) you're a fan of these two heroes, and b) you're looking for a quick, easy read to take up a few hours of your day.
January 24, 2019
this should be the script for the upcoming man of steel meets the dark knight film with ben afleck...
bringing the heroes back to their more humble and original roots is the way to go. the concepts of trust, aliens, conspiracy, and doing what is right which is not always the legal thing made this one of the best reads in the last few months. it reminded me why I like superman as a child. definitely not a fan of the latest punching holes in the universe version but I was a fan of the humble not so god-like-empowered one.
I will not provide a thorough review because it just must be read. not as good as son of krypton by the same author, but a great read
bringing the heroes back to their more humble and original roots is the way to go. the concepts of trust, aliens, conspiracy, and doing what is right which is not always the legal thing made this one of the best reads in the last few months. it reminded me why I like superman as a child. definitely not a fan of the latest punching holes in the universe version but I was a fan of the humble not so god-like-empowered one.
I will not provide a thorough review because it just must be read. not as good as son of krypton by the same author, but a great read
June 17, 2018
A solid story and representation of batman and superman. Really enjoyed it
September 24, 2023
I didn’t have a burning desire to read this book. I’ve read a few superhero novels and they’re okay I guess. I just think they lose something without the pictures.
If they’re good, they can add some depth or insight to the characters, but that’s true of regular comic books too.
But really I need something to read on a trip that I could easily throw away, so as to make more room for other books I’ll probably buy on my trip!
No offense intended to the author, I just knew that while it would be readable enough, I could probably toss this out after I’m done!
In the first chapter Batman is stalking low-life’s in the park but it turns out (SPOILER ALERT) that they are cops faking being low-life’s to try to capture Batman. That doesn’t work out.
The next day Clark Kent and Jimmy Olson come to Wayne Manor to interview Bruce Wayne, who is late to the interview, because he had a late night.
So anyway, its pretty good. It’s a little weird though because as a long time comic fan and really even a movie fan we’ve seen or read variations of these scenes before.
Superman’s meet-cute with Lois. Batman pretending to be a fop while the board members are Wayne Manor treat him like an imbecile. That kind of thing.
And there’s weird references that make you think it take place in the past. Eleanor Roosevelt, Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller showing up at Bruce Wayne’s charity ball. The Zorro movie. That sort of thing.
Nothing bad, just a little bit been-there-done-that. Still worth reading but nothing particularly new so far.
Believe it or not the book actually gets more interesting as Bruce Wayne investigates potential corruption at Wayne Enterprises. Now we’ve got a mystery that punching won’t solve… at least by itself!
It takes until around page 122 until the inevitable meeting and mix-up happens.
“No, I don’t have a backup plan! When the first plan is perfect, who needs a backup?” - Lex Luthor
Gotta love a writer than knows his villains!
I’m enjoying this book a lot actually. It’s almost an ‘origin’ story. Lex Luthor is trying to blackmail the world. Superman is trying to stop him, but has just met Batman who seems fishy. Lois Lane is trying to get a scoop. Batman is trying not to lose Wayne Enterprise and a newly discovered green meteor is causing all sorts of mischief.
So nothing particular new but well told and engaging.
And Alfred gets all the best lines.
“Superman, on the other hand, were his bright red cape for… what? Just to show off? Color coordination?”
There were a-lot of other good lines in this book, but frankly I was having too much fun reading it to write them down. And I was on a tour bus.
It would be hard to give this more than 4 stars because it really doesn’t break any new ground, but it tells its story in a classic and fun way.
And it would have made a helluva lot better live action movie than any other one starring these characters!
October 23, 2012
Book Review as an Argument:
Putting Enemies and Allies on Trial
By: Slayder Davis P.7
Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury: I intend to prove that, despite of the book being dated, (I stole your line Thompson sorry, the line worked) Enemies and Allies by Kevin J. Anderson is a very good young adult and adult novel that goes between several charecters explaining Superman and Batmans first team up and there take down of Lex Luthor. It is narrarated by Batman, Superman, Lex Luthor, General Ceridov, and Lois Lane. The main issue addressed in this story is Lex Luthor, the bald rich guy, who stages an international nuclear war and spreads fear of an alien invasion so that he can sell advanced weapons to governments around the world. Also the first confrentation between Batman and Superman ends in distrust. Lois lane also gets herself into trouble numerous times causing Superman to come and save her.
*There are only two small problems I found with this book. The first problem with the book is that it needs to speed up. The book can get a little slow at times. An example I found in the book is that one of the kind of main charecters, General Ceridov, is a little annoying especially his name, but the thing is when you first meet him you know he is going to die because he is a bad guy. The author drags out his life and it takes him forever to kill off General Ceridov. When the chapter comes for Ceridov to die, it takes seven pages of running and hidding from monsters for him to finally die. Another example of the slowness of the book is in chapter 4. Clark Kent is at the Daily Planet, the place in Metropolis where he has a job as a journalist, when he hears on the small radio in the building that the ship, the Star Queen City, is sinking in the ocean 10 miles away from Metropolis. He quickly disapears to become Superman. While he is flying to save the ship it takes him forever to get there. When he gets to the ship it takes him a while to lift it up into the air. In the movie Superman Returns, Superman has to lift up a whole huge island with Kryptonite affecting him the whole way up. The author exagerated way to much. Now back to the story, when Superman finally lifts up the boat it takes him less than a page to take the boat back to Metropolis. That was only one of the problems.
*The second problem in the book is that the book only mentions about maybe 20 charecters. Other books I have read like Harry Potter has loads of charecters in them. Only about 10 of the charecters have more than 10 lines. For me personally, I like books that have lots of points of views. I like people in the books. This book needs more good guys or more bad guys. They need a charecter besides Luthor and Ceridov to be the bad guys. They need to add the Joker. They have a Superman villian so they need a Batman villian. But this book isn't all bad there are a lot of good things too.
"He (Superman), says he wants to stop criminals- and yet when my house was attacked, when I was robbed, he came... and helped the burglar get away," says Lex Luthor. Luthor's house was broken into by Batman and when the Dark Knight was leaving, because of the alarms that went off, Superman comes and stops Batman in his tracks and carrys him away to be taken to jail but Batman sneaks away. Lex Luthor blames Superman for the 'theifs' get away. Luthor just caused a problem for Superman because now the people just lost trust with him. The author is very good at giving a great story line and problems for each of the charecters to solve. Not only does author give problems for the charecters he also creates great suspense for the readers.
Suspense is another of the book, Enemies and Allies, positive things about it. The greatest example of suspense in Enemies and Allies is on page 198. Lex Luthor just told General Ceridov to launch the nuclear missles. Luthor prepared the laser cannons to fire at the missles when they got in range. Right when the missles were going to hit the U.S. namely: Metropolis, D.C., and New York, "He turned the operation key and with a thin smile on his face, hit the large firing button. Nothing happend, his smile faltered. He hit the button again, nothing happened. 'Do you have a back up plan sir?' says his body guard. 'No, when you have a perfect plan you do not need a back up plan,' Says Luthor." The U.S. is about to explode, who will save all of the people? Thankfully they have Super... I won't tell you, you'll have to read it yourself. Suspense is one of the great things in the story but importantly the heros powers are what keep the story going and possible.
Each of the charecters in the story, Enemies and Allies, have their own special powers. Superman has lots of powers like heat vision, x-ray vision, super strength, super speed, the ability to fly and super cold breath. On page 198 it says, "Faster than a bullet, higher than a jet, Kal-El flew." It says on page 28, "...push his senses from the short wave length band of x-ray spectrum out to intense infared lasers..." Superman is a super alien powerhouse. The Dark Knight may not have powers but he does have his gadgets like batarangs, bat hooks, lock picks and batbombs. He also has a lot of fighting skills and his cape to hide him in the darkness. On page 120 when batman breaks into Luthors house he used a 'bat' grappnaling hook to get up into Luthors mansion. Lois Lane has great questioning skills as a reporter. Lex Luthor also has suits that he uses to fly around in and for super strength. With the awesome abilitys and gadgets the superheros use them to create an action packed adventure.
Page 293, "Kal-El focused his intense gaze into the infared band and heat beams lashe out, strafing the underbelly of the lowest flying alien craft. The Batplane next to him launched a brace of small rockets that streaked in and exploded." Superman and Batman zoom in to stop the fake alien aircraft, creating an awesome scene in the book. On page 10, " The 'wino' opened fire and bullets splintered bark and wood from a thick boled oak. Swirling his dark cape like a toreador to distract the agressor, he disguised the porton of his body." Batman is whirling out of the way of the bullets heading towards him. Batman creates a great action story in the first part of the book which keeps you reading the book. There is a lot of action in this great story that will keep the readers going.
Most books start out with the boring back ground information which makes the reader want to quit immidieatly the first page. Enemies and Allies brings action in and out through most of the book which will keep the reader going.
As you can see from the evidence presented above, this is a great fiction book that has lots of adventure, action, suspense, powers/gadgets and hardly any complaints about how bad the book is. I highly recommened it.
*P.S.(Thompson, I really couldn't think of anything bad about the book so the bad things about it above I don't believe.)
Putting Enemies and Allies on Trial
By: Slayder Davis P.7
Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury: I intend to prove that, despite of the book being dated, (I stole your line Thompson sorry, the line worked) Enemies and Allies by Kevin J. Anderson is a very good young adult and adult novel that goes between several charecters explaining Superman and Batmans first team up and there take down of Lex Luthor. It is narrarated by Batman, Superman, Lex Luthor, General Ceridov, and Lois Lane. The main issue addressed in this story is Lex Luthor, the bald rich guy, who stages an international nuclear war and spreads fear of an alien invasion so that he can sell advanced weapons to governments around the world. Also the first confrentation between Batman and Superman ends in distrust. Lois lane also gets herself into trouble numerous times causing Superman to come and save her.
*There are only two small problems I found with this book. The first problem with the book is that it needs to speed up. The book can get a little slow at times. An example I found in the book is that one of the kind of main charecters, General Ceridov, is a little annoying especially his name, but the thing is when you first meet him you know he is going to die because he is a bad guy. The author drags out his life and it takes him forever to kill off General Ceridov. When the chapter comes for Ceridov to die, it takes seven pages of running and hidding from monsters for him to finally die. Another example of the slowness of the book is in chapter 4. Clark Kent is at the Daily Planet, the place in Metropolis where he has a job as a journalist, when he hears on the small radio in the building that the ship, the Star Queen City, is sinking in the ocean 10 miles away from Metropolis. He quickly disapears to become Superman. While he is flying to save the ship it takes him forever to get there. When he gets to the ship it takes him a while to lift it up into the air. In the movie Superman Returns, Superman has to lift up a whole huge island with Kryptonite affecting him the whole way up. The author exagerated way to much. Now back to the story, when Superman finally lifts up the boat it takes him less than a page to take the boat back to Metropolis. That was only one of the problems.
*The second problem in the book is that the book only mentions about maybe 20 charecters. Other books I have read like Harry Potter has loads of charecters in them. Only about 10 of the charecters have more than 10 lines. For me personally, I like books that have lots of points of views. I like people in the books. This book needs more good guys or more bad guys. They need a charecter besides Luthor and Ceridov to be the bad guys. They need to add the Joker. They have a Superman villian so they need a Batman villian. But this book isn't all bad there are a lot of good things too.
"He (Superman), says he wants to stop criminals- and yet when my house was attacked, when I was robbed, he came... and helped the burglar get away," says Lex Luthor. Luthor's house was broken into by Batman and when the Dark Knight was leaving, because of the alarms that went off, Superman comes and stops Batman in his tracks and carrys him away to be taken to jail but Batman sneaks away. Lex Luthor blames Superman for the 'theifs' get away. Luthor just caused a problem for Superman because now the people just lost trust with him. The author is very good at giving a great story line and problems for each of the charecters to solve. Not only does author give problems for the charecters he also creates great suspense for the readers.
Suspense is another of the book, Enemies and Allies, positive things about it. The greatest example of suspense in Enemies and Allies is on page 198. Lex Luthor just told General Ceridov to launch the nuclear missles. Luthor prepared the laser cannons to fire at the missles when they got in range. Right when the missles were going to hit the U.S. namely: Metropolis, D.C., and New York, "He turned the operation key and with a thin smile on his face, hit the large firing button. Nothing happend, his smile faltered. He hit the button again, nothing happened. 'Do you have a back up plan sir?' says his body guard. 'No, when you have a perfect plan you do not need a back up plan,' Says Luthor." The U.S. is about to explode, who will save all of the people? Thankfully they have Super... I won't tell you, you'll have to read it yourself. Suspense is one of the great things in the story but importantly the heros powers are what keep the story going and possible.
Each of the charecters in the story, Enemies and Allies, have their own special powers. Superman has lots of powers like heat vision, x-ray vision, super strength, super speed, the ability to fly and super cold breath. On page 198 it says, "Faster than a bullet, higher than a jet, Kal-El flew." It says on page 28, "...push his senses from the short wave length band of x-ray spectrum out to intense infared lasers..." Superman is a super alien powerhouse. The Dark Knight may not have powers but he does have his gadgets like batarangs, bat hooks, lock picks and batbombs. He also has a lot of fighting skills and his cape to hide him in the darkness. On page 120 when batman breaks into Luthors house he used a 'bat' grappnaling hook to get up into Luthors mansion. Lois Lane has great questioning skills as a reporter. Lex Luthor also has suits that he uses to fly around in and for super strength. With the awesome abilitys and gadgets the superheros use them to create an action packed adventure.
Page 293, "Kal-El focused his intense gaze into the infared band and heat beams lashe out, strafing the underbelly of the lowest flying alien craft. The Batplane next to him launched a brace of small rockets that streaked in and exploded." Superman and Batman zoom in to stop the fake alien aircraft, creating an awesome scene in the book. On page 10, " The 'wino' opened fire and bullets splintered bark and wood from a thick boled oak. Swirling his dark cape like a toreador to distract the agressor, he disguised the porton of his body." Batman is whirling out of the way of the bullets heading towards him. Batman creates a great action story in the first part of the book which keeps you reading the book. There is a lot of action in this great story that will keep the readers going.
Most books start out with the boring back ground information which makes the reader want to quit immidieatly the first page. Enemies and Allies brings action in and out through most of the book which will keep the reader going.
As you can see from the evidence presented above, this is a great fiction book that has lots of adventure, action, suspense, powers/gadgets and hardly any complaints about how bad the book is. I highly recommened it.
*P.S.(Thompson, I really couldn't think of anything bad about the book so the bad things about it above I don't believe.)
November 29, 2018
It's not a great story, but it does deserve four stars. After reading this thick pseudo-origin story of Batman and Superman's first team up, I realize that I hadn't read much of a story at all. It's sort of an extended character exploration of two superheros from the original era in which they appeared in comics.
First, the bad. There's very little story. There are a few key events that string together a character analysis for each character. Although they meet early in the book, they spend very little time together. If you wanted to get into the head of these characters, this is a good character study. In fact, this is a great way to teach students how to break down characters and motivation. But that's not why I wanted to read this book.
Second, the worse. The Lois Land character is so unbelievable that you just can't even believe the character. If this was a story about the real world, I would believe a man could fly before I would believe the things Lois Lane did in this book. It was literally that incredible, but not in a complimentary way. This character just does things that were as unlikely as they were not believable. Lois Lane's actions were so implausible that I had to fight to keep my mind on the story.
But then there's the good. The writing is very good. Super crisp, interesting, and breezy. I've never read anything by this author before and I was glad that I stuck with the book. Again, there's not much of a story, but the book was an enjoyable read.
I'm sure better reviewers can tell you why Kevin J. Anderson is a good writer. I just liked his writing. In each chapter, he managed to capture the voice of either Batman or Superman in a way that felt real and exciting.
There are a lot of pages, but the way the chapters are designed, you find yourself flipping through the book pretty fast. Enemies & Allies is a good, lightweight read that makes me want to read more from this author.
First, the bad. There's very little story. There are a few key events that string together a character analysis for each character. Although they meet early in the book, they spend very little time together. If you wanted to get into the head of these characters, this is a good character study. In fact, this is a great way to teach students how to break down characters and motivation. But that's not why I wanted to read this book.
Second, the worse. The Lois Land character is so unbelievable that you just can't even believe the character. If this was a story about the real world, I would believe a man could fly before I would believe the things Lois Lane did in this book. It was literally that incredible, but not in a complimentary way. This character just does things that were as unlikely as they were not believable. Lois Lane's actions were so implausible that I had to fight to keep my mind on the story.
But then there's the good. The writing is very good. Super crisp, interesting, and breezy. I've never read anything by this author before and I was glad that I stuck with the book. Again, there's not much of a story, but the book was an enjoyable read.
I'm sure better reviewers can tell you why Kevin J. Anderson is a good writer. I just liked his writing. In each chapter, he managed to capture the voice of either Batman or Superman in a way that felt real and exciting.
There are a lot of pages, but the way the chapters are designed, you find yourself flipping through the book pretty fast. Enemies & Allies is a good, lightweight read that makes me want to read more from this author.
March 9, 2022
I always love this book. I don't always 100% agree with the portrayal of Clark as seeing himself as this super alien person because for a chunk of his life he doesn't know he isn't human. So him being like 'wow people sure are weird and unrelatable I'm so strange'... honey you went to high school with them, and middle school. Please. You had friends. You're in love with Lois. Shh.
But I usually 100% think Bruce is spot on. He's fiercely protective of his father's company and protective of what Wayne Enterprises can do, I love him just hosing Lex Luthor over every single chance he can get. That's beautiful. I even love that he's constantly just like "Justice isn't the same thing as following the law, Clark, jesus what planet are you from? You really think it's fair to punish people for the same crime when the motivation and situation is different?" "Well it depends on who it hurts I guess" "Exactly" there's a lot of good stuff there. Also can I please work for him? Letting people go early? Paying a nice wage, taking good care of his employees from the ground up? All because Thomas Wayne had strong ideals and wanted his company to always continue that way so he wrote in very strong wills and guidance for his company... anyway.
Also Alfred as always is a gem.
I enjoy this novel. I'm not saying it's good, because sometimes I'm pretty sure it's just a fluff popcorn book, but I love it. I have so much fun watching them basically say "Socialism is really the better way here" as they also say "But capitalism is all that works f the commies" as I just crack up. But Clark deciding he's Kal El when he's in costume also cracks me up. I also got a huge kick out of Clark really hoping The Batman was also a Kryptonian alien because the batwing was so cool. Yep maybe that's a spaceship and he's like me and we can be besties!
I enjoy this book and hope other people do, too.
But I usually 100% think Bruce is spot on. He's fiercely protective of his father's company and protective of what Wayne Enterprises can do, I love him just hosing Lex Luthor over every single chance he can get. That's beautiful. I even love that he's constantly just like "Justice isn't the same thing as following the law, Clark, jesus what planet are you from? You really think it's fair to punish people for the same crime when the motivation and situation is different?" "Well it depends on who it hurts I guess" "Exactly" there's a lot of good stuff there. Also can I please work for him? Letting people go early? Paying a nice wage, taking good care of his employees from the ground up? All because Thomas Wayne had strong ideals and wanted his company to always continue that way so he wrote in very strong wills and guidance for his company... anyway.
Also Alfred as always is a gem.
I enjoy this novel. I'm not saying it's good, because sometimes I'm pretty sure it's just a fluff popcorn book, but I love it. I have so much fun watching them basically say "Socialism is really the better way here" as they also say "But capitalism is all that works f the commies" as I just crack up. But Clark deciding he's Kal El when he's in costume also cracks me up. I also got a huge kick out of Clark really hoping The Batman was also a Kryptonian alien because the batwing was so cool. Yep maybe that's a spaceship and he's like me and we can be besties!
I enjoy this book and hope other people do, too.
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