It's Superman!

This reimagining of Superman's origin story takes place in Depression-era America, following Clark Kent's journey from rural Kansas to New York City. The novel places Superman in a historically authentic 1930s setting, complete with gangsters, corrupt politicians, and social upheaval. Clark Kent struggles with his emerging powers while dealing with personal loss in his Kansas hometown. His path intersects with photographer Willi Berg and journalist Lois Lane as he makes his way across the country, encountering both allies and adversaries. The narrative connects Superman's rise with the complex political and criminal landscape of 1930s New York, where Lex Luthor operates as a powerful city alderman. Federal agents, organized crime, and city corruption form the backdrop against which Clark must decide how to use his extraordinary abilities. The novel explores themes of identity and moral responsibility in a time of national crisis, examining how an extraordinary individual chooses to act in a world marked by ordinary human struggles.

Readers highlight De Haven's Depression-era Kansas setting and gradual character development of a young, uncertain Clark Kent discovering his powers. Many reviewers note the book's slower pace and literary approach compared to typical superhero stories. Readers appreciated: - Historical details and atmosphere - Complex character relationships - Fresh take on familiar origin story - Jonathan and Martha Kent's portrayal - Lex Luthor's methodical villainy Common criticisms: - Too slow for superhero fans - Limited action sequences - Clark doesn't become Superman until late - Some found the writing style pretentious Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (90+ ratings) Sample review: "More Steinbeck than Siegel & Shuster. If you want action-packed superheroics, look elsewhere. But if you want a character study of Clark Kent coming to terms with who he is, this delivers." - Goodreads reviewer "The historical backdrop adds depth but sometimes overshadows the Superman elements." - Amazon reviewer

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🌟 The book's 1930s setting aligns with Superman's actual creation date - the character first appeared in Action Comics #1 in 1938. 🌟 Author Tom De Haven is a professor of creative writing at Virginia Commonwealth University and has written extensively about comic book culture and American pop history. 🌟 The novel's depiction of Clark Kent in Hollywood mirrors Superman creators Siegel and Shuster's real-life attempts to sell their character to movie studios before finding success in comics. 🌟 Unlike traditional Superman stories set in Metropolis, this version uses New York City as its urban backdrop, reflecting the original inspiration for Superman's home city. 🌟 The book's Depression-era setting allowed De Haven to explore Superman as a "people's champion" - similar to how the character was originally conceived as a defender of the working class.