Action Comics #1088: Rising Star

Mark Waid returns to Action Comics just in time for the Summer of Superman! Action Comics #1088 is the second part of a new arc by superstar writer Mark Waid with artist Skylar Patridge. It’s back-to-school time just after Superboy’s debut at the Expo of Tomorrow in Metropolis. With the whole world talking about his exploits, Superboy is ready for more action, but he has some homework to do. Can Clark manage his schoolwork and his hero work? Or will the trouble come to find him in Smallville? Find out in this month’s issue of Action Comics filled with heart, learning lessons, and child-like hope.

This new weekly arc has been off to an exciting start, and it’s nothing less than I expect from a Mark Waid comic. Waid understands how to write a strong and strategic Man of Steel. I’m happy that Waid is getting to write an early years version of Clark, and he captures the heart of the Kent family so well. I think this version of Superman is a perfect parallel to the adult Superman that Waid writes. I’m always excited to get to see the early years of Superman, especially because we see just how much the Kents’ love impacted the hero he became to be. It looks like this new arc will focus on that, and I trust in Waid’s ability to make it entertaining and true to the character of Superman. Waid has a great way of capturing Clark Kent’s unwavering moral compass and his unshakable belief in the goodness of humanity. I think this is the perfect time to write early Superman stories with the new Superman movie coming out soon! This issue explores the way that Superman builds his moral compass and learns to be a hero, and it’s exciting to see.  This issue hits the right beats: heroism, humility, and heart — the cornerstones of any good Superman story.

The art in this issue is fantastic, and it is so refreshing to see a rising artist on such a big comic series. Skylar Patridge’s art is clean, dynamic, and full of energy. The panels flow smoothly, with expressive character work and a vibrant color palette that highlights both the grandeur of Superman’s powers and the intimacy of his personal life. Action sequences are fluid and visually satisfying, while quieter moments are given space to breathe. Patridge manages to capture the whimsy and joy in a Superman comic well. I also appreciate the slight difference in style between the past and present. Overall, this is a solid, heartfelt new chapter in the ongoing saga of a true icon.