Action Comics #1095: Supertwink

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. But when his best friend, Pete Ross, finds out his secret, can he keep it contained?  Action Comics #1095 is the next installment of a new arc by super star writer Mark Waid with new artist Patricio Delpeche. After a camping trip together, Clark’s best Friend Pete finds out his super-secret. Now Pete is torn between telling Clark he knows and finding out why he would keep such a major secret from him. Pete is holding the weight of the world on his shoulders, but can an unlikely friend help him relieve it? 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 perspective to heroism and a secret identity. Following Pete Ross and how he struggles with the secret of Clark’s identity it a fantastic take. We see how these teenagers are learning adult lessons through the guise of super heroism. I think the incorporation of identity and queerness in this issue hits really well and relates perfectly to a Superman story. 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 a secret identity brings to someone. It’s fun to see this immature side of Clark, and it contrasts so well to present-day Superman.

This issue continues the amazing art by Patricio Delpeche. The art in this issue is fantastic and it offers 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.