James Gunn's Superman flies into theaters on July 11, ushering in a bold new era for the Man of Steel. Since his debut in 1938's Action Comics #1, Superman has stood as a symbol of hope, justice, and the enduring power of doing what's right. Over the decades, his stories have evolved alongside the world, capturing everything from epic battles to deeply personal moments that reveal the heart beating beneath the crest. As the Last Son of Krypton prepares to once again take flight on the silver screen, there has never been a better time to revisit the tales that have defined his incredible journey.
To help you gear up for the movie, we've compiled a list of ten must-read Superman stories that showcase his strength, resilience and unshakable optimism. These timeless tales not only celebrate his legendary legacy, but highlight why Superman continues to inspire millions of readers across generations. So buckle up and get ready to take flight with ten fundamental feats that have helped shape Superman into one of the greatest superheroes of all time.
10. Superman: Up In The Sky (2019)
Hailing from the creative team of Tom King and Andy Kubert, this six-issue miniseries is a soaring celebration of the heart, heroism and humanity that define the Man of Steel. When aliens kidnap a young girl from Metropolis, Superman embarks on an intergalactic quest to bring her home — proving that no life is too small or insignificant to save. King distills everything that makes Clark Kent so enduring: his compassion, resilience, and that unshakable moral compass. Emotional and profoundly uplifting, this story is both an epistle to truth and justice, and a showcase of Superman at his absolute best.
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9. Superman: Secret Identity (2004)
Written by Kurt Busiek with art by Stuart Immonen, this four-issue miniseries serves as a heartfelt and grounded re-imagining of Superman's mythology. Though not published under the Elseworlds banner, Secret Identity is considered non-canonical, set in a world where Superman only exists in comic books — until a teen named Clark Kent unexpectedly finds himself gaining superpowers. What follows is a touching and deeply personal journey of identity, purpose and legacy. Rich in emotion and quiet heroism, Busiek's story successfully captures the essence of Superman without the cape, proving that greatness isn't about where we come from, but in the choices we make to help others.
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8. Action Comics #775 (2001)
Titled "What's So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way?", this landmark Superman story from Joe Kelly, Doug Mahnke, and Lee Bermejo takes a bold stand against the rising appeal of violent antiheroes. It introduces The Elite — a brutal super-team led by the unhinged Manchester Black — who challenge Superman's ideals as relics of a gentler past. In response, Kal-El demonstrates that integrity, compassion, and moral courage are not weaknesses, but his greatest strengths. Powerful, thought-provoking and enduring, this tale reaffirms Superman's core values and delivers a stirring defense in the name of hope, restraint and doing what's right.
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7. Kingdom Come (1996)
Written by Mark Waid and beautifully painted by Alex Ross, Kingdom Come is a visionary masterpiece that places Superman at the heart of a moral crisis in a fractured future. As new, violent heroes rise, a retired Superman returns in an attempt to restore order — not through dominance, but principle. Haunted, yet hopeful, he reassembles the Justice League and becomes a beacon of reason in a world gone mad. More than just a tale of redemption, Kingdom Come reminds readers that Superman's strength lies not just in his power, but in compassion, humility and hope. It's a wonderfully spirited reaffirmation of the ideals he represents.
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6. "Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?" (1986)
Written by Alan Moore with art by Curt Swan, "Whatever Happened To The Man Of Tomorrow" is a poignant and powerful "farewell" to the Silver Age Superman. Published in 1986, this two-part tale imagines Kal-El's final adventure — where his greatest foes unite for one last, devastating assault. As everything he loves is threatened, Superman makes the ultimate choice to preserve his values. Moore masterfully crafts a heartfelt tribute to the character's mythos, celebrating his kindness, humility and hope. Both bittersweet and uplifting, it's a beautiful sendoff to a classic character that reminds us why Superman will always matter.
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5. "The Death of Superman" (1992)
From Dan Jurgens, "The Death Of Superman" is a seismic event in comic book history — one that has echoed through popular culture for over 30 years. Originally published in 1992, the story pits Superman against the monstrous Doomsday in a brutal, city-shaking battle that ends with both combatants falling in Metropolis. Beyond the action, this is a story about sacrifice, legacy and what Superman means to the world. It showed fans that even the strongest heroes aren't invincible — and that's what made him real. Bold, emotional and unforgettable, "The Death Of Superman" remains one of the most iconic superhero stories ever brought to print.
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4. Superman: Red Son (2003)
An Elseworlds story from Mark Millar with art from Dave Johnson and Kilian Plunkett, Superman: Red Son offers a bold and thought-provoking twist on the Superman story: What if Kal-El's rocket had landed in Soviet Russia instead of Kansas? The plot explores how Superman's values and ideology might evolve under a different regime — raising powerful questions about nature, nurture, and morality. Despite this shift in allegiance, his core struggle remains: how to use immense power responsibly. Red Son is not just a thrilling alternate history, it's a sharp and hopeful commentary on identity, freedom, and the possibility of redemption — no matter the origin.
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3. Superman: For All Seasons (1998)
Written by Jeph Loeb with stunning art from Tim Sale, Superman: For All Seasons is a late '90s classic that offers a beautifully intimate look at the Man of Steel's early years. Told through the eyes of those closest to him, this four-part story captures Clark Kent's journey from humble farm boy to world-saving hero against the backdrop of the changing seasons. Loeb and Sale do a fantastic job exploring not just Superman's powers, but his heart, doubts, and quiet strength. Thoughtful and deeply human, For All Seasons is a genuine celebration of growth and the enduring values that continue to make Superman a generational inspiration.
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2. Superman: Birthright (2003)
Written by Mark Waid and featuring vibrant art courtesy of Leinil Francis Yu, Superman: Birthright is a 12-issue series that offers a modern retelling of the character's origin. Perfectly blending heart, heroism and relevance, the story redefines Clark Kent's journey from uncertain youngster to the Man of Steel. With an emphasis on compassion, curiosity, and sense of justice, Waid explores themes of identity and belonging, while giving fresh depth to Superman's relationships — particularly with Lex Luthor. Packed with powerful moments and emotional resonance, Birthright honors the classic mythology while making it feel fresh and new. It's an inspiring and definitive take on what makes the Big Blue Boy Scout truly super.
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1. All-Star Superman (2008)
With a script from Grant Morrison and art courtesy of Frank Quitely, All-Star Superman is widely celebrated as the definitive Superman story — an ageless, Eisner Award-winning masterpiece that captures the heart and soul of the Last Son of Krypton like no other. In this 12-issue epic, Superman is dying, and with limited time left, he sets out to complete a series of heroic tasks that reflect the depth of his character. Morrison's writing is profound and poetic, while Quitely's art brings mythic beauty to every page. Brimming with hope, wonder, and emotional weight, All-Star Superman is a finely crafted love letter to the legend — timeless, uplifting and absolutely unforgettable!
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