Justice League of America #21

I'm not sure what to think about writer Dwayne McDuffie's stint on "Justice League of America". I know that he is held in high regard for his previous work, but it seems that he is a bit off his game with this book. The JLA is supposed to be the premiere DC book. The stories should be blockbusters. However, whether due to DC Editorial mismanagement or bad writing, each issue seems to be a setup for some other big event. Just recently we've seen a setup for "Tangent: Superman's Reign", "Salvation Run", and now "Final Crisis". I'd like to see this book get its footing and let McDuffie shine.

Art Rating: 3 out of 4
Story Rating: 3 out of 4
Overall Rating: 3 out of 4

McDuffie takes some time to do a little evaluation in this issue. The Trinity meeting reflects the vibe of "Justice League of America" #0 but is more a status check on how the league is doing. McDuffie handles the banter between the big three and shows he has a good understanding of their dynamic. He uses this plot device to clean up some nagging questions and address some complaints I've read on message boards. For example, Batman treating supposed team leader Black Canary poorly is discussed. The art team of Pacheco & Merino do a fine job with the discussion giving the characters the proper facial expressions to match McDuffie's plot. The art team really shines when an old Martian Manhunter villain shows up and the "Final Crisis" prologue action happens.

As a stand alone issue, I liked what McDuffie and company did here. They presented a pretty good jumping on point for new readers while addressing current reader's issues. However, if this turns into a one-shot and forgot regarding Libra's plans and the next issue goes on to set up another miniseries event that is coming up, I will truly feel sorry for McDuffie. DC is treating him like a glorified fill-in writer and he deserves better than that.

Superman Annual #13

Up front I have to say that with all of the delays and fill-ins it has been hard keeping track of the "Camelot Falls" storyline. While writer Kurt Busiek does a fine job with Superman, the issue breaks and delay have hurt the flow of this story. I had to rack my brain a little bit to even remember what Arion's deal was and how we got to where we are now. I am guessing that with his recent replacement that artist Carlos Pacheco is the main culprit in all of these delays. Busiek does a decent job of providing the reader a little time to catch up utilizing the Phantom Stranger for good effect. I like Busiek's use of Superman's thoughts to help fill the reader in on the happenings. The ending to "Camelot Falls" isn't truly epic and kind of peters out as it crosses the finish line. Maybe future stories with the villian Khyber will provide some excitement but at this point all I can do is yawn.

Pacheco and Jesus Merino share the art duties on this issue and do a fine job with all of the action. The varied page presentations keep the story flowing well.

Busiek and Fabian Nicieza's backup story "The Best Day" is a throwback to the "Superman Family" reads of the 70s with Superman and his family visiting a lush and vibrant planet. Even though he still draws the big boned (I won't say "fat") Supergirl, Renato Guedes art is very good here. My son commented, "Dad, Guedes' art is really good, but he still can't draw Supergirl."

If you are interested in finishing up the "Camelot Falls" storyline then this issue is for you. If not, then by passing it won't hurt your future DC reading.

Superman #670

"Superman" issue #670 brings to a conclusion the three-part "The Third Kryptonian" story line. The entire Superman family is present including new additions Chris Kent and Karsta Wor-Ul - the third Kryptonian in question. This is an action packed issue reminiscent of the old "Superman Family" adventures during the Silver Age. In the middle of the battle Karsta flies away leaving Superman, Supergirl, Powergirl, Krypto, and Batman left to fight her battle. Her return to the battle is inevitable and aptly timed as well. Writer Kurt Busiek does a fine job of moving the action forward and concluding this three part story. Busiek continues to weave his perception of Superman's post Crisis reality showing that Red Sun doesn't strip Superman's powers it just blocks his ability to access them. Artificial Kryptonite is also introduced. Now, I'm not a continuity nut but can Kryptonians breath in space? Post COIE Superman needed a breathing appartus. In the most recent Supergirl we get the 2-hour limit. In this issue Karsta flies off into space unaided....what's the deal? I also found the whole Kandor explanation a bit hard to swallow and look forward to Busiek or Johns pulling on this thread.

Rick Leonardi and Dan Green's art captures the action well and provides one of the better representations of Supergirl and Powergirl. I also liked Jesus Merino's cover and wouldn't mind getting a poster size version of it.

All in all, the three parter was a fun read and I would recommend it.