Action Comics #1094: Superboy at War

Mark Waid continues his triumphant return to Action Comics! Take a step back in time as Waid recounts the early days of Superboy in Smallville. Superboy is figuring out his powers and learning how to balance being a teenager and being a superhero. Action Comics #1094 is the next installment of a new arc by superstar writer Mark Waid with new artist Patricio Delpeche. Figuring out the balance between Superboy and Clark hasn’t been easy for Kal-El, but he’s taking it one day at a time. But when the Boy of Steel is confronted with the reality of his responsibility, it may be too much to handle. Clark is called for his first mission by General Lane. What lessons does he still have to learn about the responsibility of his powers and the role of a hero? Find out in this month’s issue of Action Comics, filled with lessons, real-life problems, 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. He brings a sleek, high-stakes story with touches of nostalgia, unexpected mystery, and dialogue that hits perfectly.  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. This issue is especially interesting, as we see a different, army-focused path that Clark could have taken. When I saw that Superboy would join an army mission, I was a little taken aback. However, I think it works really well here as Clark takes it as a lesson learned. It adds to his growth into Superman and the way he views war, death, and fighting. Waid has a great way of capturing Clark Kent’s unwavering moral compass and his unshakable belief in the goodness of humanity. This issue explores the way the world views Superman and the challenges he must face from an early age to become a great hero. It really highlights the responsibility someone at his age has with such astonishing power. It’s fun to see this immature side of Clark, and it contrasts so well to present-day Superman.

This issue introduces Patricio Delpeche. The art in this issue is fantastic, offering a more cartoonish look that fits the Boy of Steel perfectly. Delpeche’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. Delpeche 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.