Superman: Birthright - The Origin of the Man of Steel Paperback – 1 Oct. 2005

This has been one of my favourite origin stories of Superman. I am old enough to remember the first movie staring Christopher Reeves. This book is right up there what that movie.Bring a continuity lover. I love that they took elements of Smallville and other tv series and managed as well as staying true to the core comic material.I much prefer Lex as a ruthless villain to the more likeable character he played in Smallville. I like how they explained Clark/Superman being more worldly. I really liked what how they explained Clark's "disguise" it made much more sense. As well as his reasons for not wearing a mask. I also liked the reason for Clark's attraction to Lois Lane.I love Leinil Yu's artwork from the first time I saw it in a Wolverine comic. I love everything about this book, even a bit of the full circle at the end. Always the mark of a 5 star book is as soon as it was finished. I want more! I would love another book in this universe I the there are a couple of plot lines left to tie up.

I only became informed of this comic post-Man of Steel, and decided to give it a read after recommendations and from hearing that the movie was inspired by this book. Although I was disappointed with the film, it was said that this source material was far better and I am happy to confirm this. It is tricky for me to review this independantly of the film as my coming by it was so directly connected to it, so bear that in mind when reading my opinion.The film had lifted heavily from Birthright, particularly in key scenes, quotes and style, but failed to carry over any of the weight, emotion and significance that this book so beautifully sets up and delivers. Key aspects of Superman's origins are explored in detail, from why he chooses not to wear a mask, as well as the origin of the costume (at least in this incarnation, we're not talking New 52 here!)From the excellent writing you get a very clear and defined idea of who Superman is, why he became the way he did and what he went through to get there. What I didn't expect was the addition of what is essentially the origin of Lex Luthor, and how intertwined this was with Clark's own origin. While not explored as deeply (this is Superman's story after all), it also gave a great and very human aspect to Superman's greatest foe and helps us understand why he became the way he did.The artwork and colouring for me initially was odd, in particular the cover in which Superman looks a little like some plastic android instead of a saviour. But the art in the book very quickly draws you in with both dynamic and intimate panels, who's colour and style work perfectly to display the drama and emotion of the story.I totally recommend this book to anyone who wants both a good story and a little deeper understanding of the origins of the grandfather of the superhero, 100% worth it and I was completely satisfied!

Beautiful feel good story about Clark Kent, giving a heartwarming account of the coming of age of a likeable guy and a real hero.Falls apart at the end when the book goes to extreme lengths to sugarcoat the consequences of using super powered violence to solve problems, however well meaning. Quality is lowered due to this, but the theme remains consistent and as a result does not significantly devalue a wonderful work.

What a fantastic read, could not put it down. Great storyline and beautiful artwork. The man of steel returns !!!

The way in which I came upon this 11 year old Superman book is quite ironic. I was looking for a comic that didn't resort to churning out the same old tales and found Irredeemable, Volume 1, which was wonderful and which I have reviewed elsewhere. It was all I had hoped for and set me looking for other books written by Mark Waid. I came across this title. It was a good price and for a lot of pages, so I though I'd give it a try. I am so glad that I did. This book is without a doubt the best Superman story ever and the best Superman Origin story ever, to boot. Mark Waid writes movie quality dialogue and presents here a story worthy of any shown on the big screen. His Lex Luthor origin is absolutely brilliant and his depiction of the early years in Smallville entirely and utterly believable. In the 80's I loved John Byrne's take on Man Of Steel and I really enjoyed The New 52 version but this is the definitive Superman Origin book, in my opinion, and if you don't choke up whilst reading the ending then you have no soul!So, in looking for an alternative I actually rediscovered my love for a Superhero that I loved in my childhood...Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Well, it IS wonderful stuff!Thoroughly recommended.

Out of all of the Superman origin comic books that I have read, I would say that this is the best one. I heard people say that the man of steel movie was loosely based off this comic, but I didn't see it. This is different from the movie, so if you have also heard about that and didn't like the movie, don't worry because this is completely different. I think this was originally a 12 issue mini series, so it definitely has quite a lot to it and is not a short origin like some others. If you are interested in a great take on superman's origin then I would recommend this. 9/10

I was never into Superman that much as a kid, and after hearing that the train wreck that was "Man of Steel" was based on this, I wasn't filled with much confidence. But, after a friend insisted I buy this, I couldn't have been more wrong."Birthright" gives Superman the much needed reboot to fit the 21st century, and proves that he is still a hero who is relevant in today's society.The reasoning behind his actions, his relationships with the people around him, and his feud against the evil/brilliant Lex Luthor are all well written and believable thanks to the amazing talents of Mark Waid.If your new to Superman this is a great place to start, and even though "Man of Steel" was very, very loosely based on this, please don't let that put you off.

Uno de las lecturas obligadas para los fans de superman, la complicada relación entre lex y clark y la necesidad de clark por encajar con la humanidad son mis aspectos favoritos del comic.Además le doy credito a mak waid por no presentan a superman como despistado (algo común con otros escritores, ya que al tener demasiados superpoderes, debe ser difícil hacerlo parecer vulnerable) sino que aqui es un reportero perspicaz e inteligente y jamás se siente como que interfiera con la trama

A compact, well paced and unique art style makes this re-telling of one of the most well known superhero origin story stand out.The mix of familiarity and the unknown keeps the reader invested in the story from start to finish while Clark Kent goes on his self-discovery journey to become the man of tomorrow.The art suits this story perfectly and it does nothing but help you immerse into the story completely.There has been a number of different takes on superman's origin tale, but this particular one explores territories which has never been told before.A huge thanks to All Star Bookman for delivering this book in top condition.This book is a must for all superman fans and a great jumping on point for new fans who are eager to get to know the man of steel!

This has to be one of the best and most grounded stories of The Man of Steel. Mark Waid alone with artist Leinil Francis Yu show you the human side of one of DC comics most popular, powerful and enduring characters. As he travels the world you see how he interacts those he has sworn to protect often realizing that despite all his power he can't save everyone or be everywhere at the same time.Imagine if they made a film of this source material? Excuse me, there is some dirt in my eyes...

gran actualización y modernización de los orígenes del hombre de acero, Super recomendado para quienes quieren empezar a explorar el comic.

Superman is one of the most scrutinized comic book heroes, as everyone has their own ideal image of what the Man of Steel ought to be. As a result, when even the most minute detail of Superman is changed or reworked, whatever issue or collection this was done in is labeled with negativity. Sometimes it is small, other times, not so much. For the life of me, I cannot see how Birthright could, in any way, offend a Superman fan, long-time or new (unless having Clark becoming a vegetarian is sacrilege to you).The writing is outstanding. Mark Waid, author of my favorite comic Kingdom Come, has a firm grasp on the character of Superman. Additionally, he can portray the whole cast of Superman characters, from Lois to Lex, with wit, energy, and engaging dialogue. The story is very linear, despite it literally crossing continents. The chapters are not broken up by issue covers, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the story flows without stopping. On the other hand, I find these natural breaks allow for material to be digested. This is minor, and doesn't reflect the quality of writing, but I felt is important enough to make note of.The plot is extraordinary, and respects the history of Superman while also creating something new for the reader to enjoy. There is humor, tragedy, and adventure in Birthright, exposing the reader to several flavors of Superman stories. The origin of Lex Luthor is especially enjoyable, as it both humanizes and demonizes the megalomaniac. This is an origin story, but it's refreshing and deep. Superman's origin was given for years as just one page containing all the essentials. It takes skill to expand on this and make it interesting. Waid does this with ease.The art is great, though it took some getting used to. It's not really comparable to any other art I am familiar with in terms of style. Yu uses very angular shapes and figures, but rest assured, they are not abstract Picasso renderings. The cover chosen for this collection does not reflect the best art from Yu, so if it made you hesitate, don't worry. Yu's style really works for Superman, especially his wide, open shots that are frequently used to define this interpretation of Superman. At times, his facial expressions appear a little too angular to work, but this is infrequent. It's an interesting dichotomy, as certain aspects appear very realistic, while other panels are pure comic-book abstracts. Yu is something unique, and I'm glad this title had his talent.Overall, this is an easy recommendation. It's not the most thought-provoking work on Superman, but it is one of his greatest appearances. Don't confuse my previous remarks as saying Birthright is vanilla, because it's not. This is a clean, classic Superman that is placed in brutal real-world environments with both fantastic and all-too real villains. If you are just getting into reading Superman, I can think of no better place than Birthright to start with. It's undeniably great, and captures the true essence of Superman.