Superman versus the Ku Klux Klan

Rick Bowers recounts the compelling, if sprawling, story of the connections between Superman, WWII, the rise of comics, hate crimes, and the eventual use of Superman as a champion against racism and bigotry in the U.S. Bower doesn't romanticize the past or soften the grit of early pulp fiction, prohibition, and racism. Neither does Johnny Heller's performance. He narrates in a masterful voice with an old-fashioned clip that resonates with the portrayal of this period in history. The pacing, too, seems a throwback to a bygone era, though it's voiced with an immediacy that makes the historical revelations sound contemporary and relevant. A.M.P. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine

Starred review from May 28, 2012
Don’t let the title of this book fool you. It’s not a comic book or a radio drama filled with cheesy sound effects and over-the-top production values. Rather, it’s the compelling true story of how The Adventures of Superman radio show did battle with the Ku Klux Klan in 1947. Chronicling both the rise of the KKK and the creation of Superman, the story culminates when the man of steel takes aim at racism to educate America’s youth about moral values. Johnny Heller’s narration is steady and well paced, his delivery sounding effortless. He utilizes the perfect tone, style, and speed in a performance that is informative yet endlessly engaging. Heller’s narration lets the story speak for itself, but never allows the listener a chance to catch his breath. By the second chapter, listening becomes a compulsion. A must for fans of comic books and history alike. Ages 10–14. A National Geographic hardcover.

Starred review from July 1, 2012

Gr 5 Up-Rick Bowers seamlessly weaves together accounts of the simultaneous emergence of the iconic Man of Steel and one of history's most notorious hate groups in his excellent book (National Geographic, 2012). As the Great Depression took its toll, Cleveland teens Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster decided the world needed a spectacular hero. They envisioned a character that would fight for the little guy and be a defender of truth and justice. Through trial and error, their idea evolved into Superman and was eventually introduced to mainstream audiences thanks to DC Comics. Around the same time, a right-wing group, the Ku Klux Klan, was forming in response to the country's political and economic unrest. Members blamed these problems on anything (and anyone) not fitting their narrow WASP ideal and sought to eliminate perceived threats through intimidation and violence. These two forces collided in 1947 on The Superman Radio Show, where the Man of Steel went head-to-head against the Men of Hate. Johnny Heller reads with the enthusiasm of an old-time radio announcer, doing the production justice. This fast-paced, meaty, and never dry account will fascinate teens, even those who don't enjoy reading nonfiction. An excellent supplement for American history classes.-Alissa LeMerise, Oxford Public Library, MI

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.