Review: Superman #28

Superman #28 was the second chapter in Clark and Lois's walk through American history, teaching Jon about the sacrifice of the military in defending this country's freedoms. It also slips in some simple lessons about living in a society and how to impart change. Writers Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleason pick up where they left off last issue although maybe a little more heavy handed than they were last issue. There is a lot of history exposition here to bring the point home for Jon. While some exposition is needed, there are whole pages of near text book style discussions of events. I think dialing things back a bit would have made the issue roll a bit more smoothly.

There also is a rather gruesome ending, a moment that was meant to be heartwarming but seems like it is more of a horror movie shock. That ending sort of soured some of the pride that was building in this story.

The art is again by Scott Godlewski who brings a nice feel to the story. The scenes at real national monuments feel real and sharp.

On to the book.

 The road trip would be a bit too much driving and so twice in this issue we see Superman flying the family to their destinations. This feels a little off. Wouldn't people see this RV in the air? Later at Gettysburg, Superman is flying Lois and Jon around. This seems like a bit too loosey-goosey with the whole secret identity bit. But that is a quibble.

I do like Lois wanting to be General Leia. That makes sense.

In Washington D.C., the family walks around taking in the monuments. Outside, Jon sees two groups of people confronting each other apparently about climate change. This isn't a formal discussion. We see the protesters yelling.

Lois says that the right to disagree, the freedom of speech is crucial to our freedom. And protesting in the nation's capital might get more attention. Of course in this country right now, both sides are so entrenched on 'being correct' that there can't be any discourse and compromise. Neither side wants disagreement.

Clark reminds Jon that words matter but deeds matter too. I agree.

 We then get a lot of exposition. We have word for word reprints of parts of the WWII monument. And we hear a lot about the Korean War.

Then we head to the Vietnam War memorial where we learn that Lois' uncle died in action trying to save people. Kurt Lane inspired Sam Lane to join the military.

I am all about honoring the men and women who defend our country and fight for my rights. I believe in respecting these soldiers. But this felt just a bit too text-y and less like a story. I understand that this issue is about teaching Jon and to do that you need to teach. But the dialogue felt a bit too stilted.

 The next stop is Gettysburg to learn about the civil war and that battle.

Jon hears about the strategy about the land, the Union's stand against Confederate troops. Jon looks around the field and 'sees' those fallen men.

And Jon learns how reverence, in this place being quiet, is a show of respect. That is a simple level in civics.

 While walking around, the Kents run into the Down family.

Each year, this family gathers to honor their ancestor Thomas Dowd. A young 22 year old, Thomas saw he needed to fight for his country and his beliefs and enlisted.

He left behind his wife and young child. But deeds were important.

 In this battle, Thomas was shot in the shoulder. He was stabbed in the leg, forcing an amputation.

And then fate was cruel. Despite surviving these wounds, the environment took Thomas. His tent flooded and he was swept away and drowned. His body was never found.

Knowing this sacrifice, the family meets at Gettysburg to celebrate Thomas' birthday and his life defending the nation.

Dowd is a hero.

But then we get this weird ending.

Superman decides he will give this family some closure. He trawls the creek, finds the body of Dowd (proven by DNA), wraps the bones in an American flag, and leaves it on the Dowd front porch.

How horrifying!

Imagine walking outside and seeing the moldering bones of your ancestor on the picnic table! Chilling. There are other ways that Superman could have given this family closure. I can't get passed this. This was just an off note to end this story on.

Still, the sentiment of history and civics being shared in a comic is retro and appreciated by this old-timer. Remove this weird skeleton finale and I would be singing this story's praise.

Overall grade: B