Superman

February 1, 2019
Something foul's afoot in Smallville, Kansas.Thanks to hefty investment from the formidable Mankins Corporation, the town's economy is booming. While Mankins' technology has an impact on local farms, another shadowy company is buying them up for more nefarious reasons. Partnering with his best friend and hotshot student paper editor, Lana Lang, Clark Kent seeks to uncover the truth behind the mysterious developments in Smallville. Various threads come satisfyingly together in de la Peña's (Carmela Full of Wishes, 2018, etc.) tribute to the young Man of Steel, but the author aims for more fertile ground with an immigration subplot. Woven throughout the novel are discussions of a stop-and-search initiative in Smallville. The proposed law ostensibly targets the town's minority migrant community; meanwhile, migrant workers are disappearing at an alarming rate. As always, Smallville functions as a fictional microcosm of the U.S., but here there's a blunt effort to examine the bigotry and discord lurking beneath the optimistic American facade. On a personal level, Clark struggles to manage his burgeoning powers as he ponders his place in Smallville High and beyond. The existential angst that torments the young hero elicits sympathy. Familiar characters make appearances--hello, Lex Luthor--but a few Mexican characters appear in minor roles, including Clark's love interest Gloria Alvarez, a promising Dreamer.A wonderful, bold interpretation of a DC icon that aspires to embrace all readers, new and old. (Superhero adventure. 12-18)

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March 1, 2019

Gr 8 Up-In the latest series installment, de la Peña brings teenage Clark Kent to the present day, fighting against racial prejudice, abduction, and genetic experimentation in Smallville. Clark has just left the football team, much to the chagrin of his teammates, who feel betrayed. While he may have been the best player on his team, Clark knows quitting is for the best, giving him more time to spend with his best friend and aspiring journalist Lana Lang. Clark begins hanging out with Bryan, son of a powerful businessman who is trying to buy up family farms, and Bryan's mysterious friend, Lex Luthor. Tensions are high as the town prepares to vote on a stop-and-search initiative. Prejudice and violence toward Smallville's Mexican population are increasing, and Clark's friend and crush, Gloria Alvarez, claims that people are disappearing. As Clark learns the truth about his past and questions his identity, one thing remains true: Clark will always help those in need. This is a modern and relevant take on Clark Kent's teenage years, ending with the protagonist taking on the role of Superman. New characters seamlessly interact with familiar ones. VERDICT Recommended for libraries where this series is popular.-Marissa Lieberman, East Orange Public Library, NJ

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