Superman: Son of Kal-El #13: Dream a Little Dream

Nicole Maines and Tom Taylor worked together to tell a fun, frenetic tale of time travel, politics, and potential apocalypses. Nia Nal is a great new character, with an interesting power-set and a well-defined personality. I’m looking forward to seeing more of her already.

The proleptic vision her authors had her dump on Jon and Jay was well-told (especially considering the limited space it had to unfold) and it was equal parts fascinating, horrific, and emotionally affecting. I could have done with seeing what traveling through an alien animal’s dreams looked like, but the implication that it was a horrible experience was very funny within the context of the story. I expect that we’ll see more of her powers at a later date.

In any case, the choice to allow readers to witness the effects of Bendix’s plan really builds the stakes for our heroes, and it’s chilling to see what Luthor and his buddies are willing to sacrifice for the sake of eliminating Superman.

Jon and Jay had a few nice moments to themselves. I was enamored with the discussion of Damseling. Jay is as adverse to being cosseted as Lois Lane, and it was nice to see Jon’s attempt at balancing his desire to protect his boyfriend with his awareness of Jay’s personal agency.

Clayton Henry is an astonishing artist, one who is perfectly suited for this medium. He lavishes care on every aspect of storytelling, without ever wasting a line or cluttering a scene. Marcello Maiolo and Matt Herms contribute lush colors and a visceral sense of shadow and depth. Dave Sharpe’s letters are unobtrusive, but they bolster the immersive effect of the storytelling. Without his contributions, the tale would be much less impactful.

This story was wonderful to read, from the first page to the very last. These artists work together brilliantly, producing a work of equal parts adventure, excitement, and heart.