REVIEW: Adventures Of Superman: Book Of El #5
Adventures of Superman: Book of El #5, “I Am The Lantern In The Dark”, picks up directly from where last issue left off making this the most action packed installment yet. Although the action is fun and impressive, it’s the healing of familial bonds that drives this issue forward, proving even Superman’s presence can be enough to spark hope in the most stubborn of us all.
The main cover is by Scott Godlewski and Alex Guimarāes. The daunting scope of the battle inside is put to scale with this cover. Superman looks so small against the Sun-Eater, but that’s never stopped him from standing up for others.
Saowee’s variant is a great rendition of the three time displaced Els. This cover is definitely wall art worthy as Saowee leans heavily on her anime stylized techniques.
The variant by Lucio Parrillo is a more somber toned image. Superman standing on a cliff side with his eyes aglow. The overcast sky adds to the ambience, suggesting Clark is taking things very seriously.
Corin Howell and Lee Loughridge’s variant references the War World Saga as Superman breaks his chains from Warzoon captors. The threat of Kryl-Ux looms in Superman’s cape indicating a fight that is far from over.
Scott Godlewski and Colorist Alex Guimarāes continue lending their exceptional talents as the interior art team of the series. There are some serious eye popping moments this issue especially concerning the arrival of a new Green Lantern. There’s also plenty of emotional sequences as an entire race of beings are jeopardize by Kryl-Ux’s singular motivations. We’re only in the first week of the new year and this book could already contend for Best Comic Art of 2026.
Phillip Kennedy Johnson, lettered by Dave Sharpe, expertly puts in perspective what it’s like to live with the weight of legacy. His views here also describe anyone trying to do good and doubting their abilities or contributions. The narrative adds a sense of hope and possibility in the face of uncertainty with the story result of getting a pretty cool new lantern oath. Lorekeepers of Superman will delight in one of the more endearing moments as the reconciliation of Ronan and Rowan has them refer to each other as Nightwing and Flamebird. Those names have a long standing history within Superman’s story and it’s great to see them get some use here. The outcome of this issue’s conflict nicely segues to the whereabouts of at least one of Clark’s missing kids which may likely be the focus of the next chapter.
(10/10) Adventures Of Superman: Book Of El #5 is the most poignant of the series thus far as PKJ’s narrative is not only relatable to the story but also to us readers. The pacing hits a sweet spot that feels like the story is steadily progressing and the art is absolutely incredible.
