REVIEW: Adventures of Superman: Book Of El #12
Adventures of Superman: Book of El #12, “Part 12, Finale” is the last issue of the miniseries which puts a definite end to the “WarWorld Saga”. There’s a lot happening in this chapter before we get to the emotional ending, but rest assured, Phillip Kennedy Johnson tied up as many loose ends as possible with this final installment.
The standard cover is by Scott Godlewski and Alex Guimarāes. These two have consistently knocked out great covers for the series and this one is no exception. Superman and his House of El legacy are shown with a sense of hope and awe as they look ahead of them. Featuring the newer tagline of “Truth, Justice, and a Better Tomorrow” feels especially apt considering the time displacement setting of the book.
Lucio Parrillo’s variant is a great depiction of Red Son and Starchild with Superman pointing towards their future. The realistic style really brings Osul and Otho to life in a way we’ve rarely seen.
The variant by KyuYong Eom is a great image of Superman in the outfit he’s been wearing for most of this series. Posed here as though he just took out the Promethean Giant behind him, Superman seems ready to take on whatever comes next.
The art team of Scott Godlewski and Colorists Alex Guimarāes and Matt Herms finishes ‘Adventures of Superman: Book of El’ #12 strong. The emotional weight of how this story plays out wouldn’t feel as real without the superb visuals this team provides. The action sequences are stellar as well. There are a few moments where you’re not sure everyone is going to make it out of this final confrontation in one piece, including Superman. The art definitely delivers to add to the satisfaction of this finale.
Phillip Kennedy Johnson, lettered by Dave Sharpe, executes the ending of his WarWorld Saga perfectly. There’s enough loose ends tied up for it to feel concluded, but the futures of PKJ’s characters are left open enough to be explored if so inclined. The fate of Olgrun, who and what they were, and their effects on the universe at large are laid bare as Kryl-Ux wields all the aspects against The House of El. Leave it to PKJ’s excellent storytelling, however, to keep this confrontation from being one massive slugfest as Superman attempts to save Kryl-Ux from his own hubris. This ending is heartfelt and inspiring in many ways but lands a tad bittersweet as this will be PKJ’s last DC outing for the foreseeable future.
(10/10) Not only did Adventures of Superman: Book Of El #12 hit some fairly emotional chords within me, the entire series is a great example of PKJ’s talent. His understanding of what Superman strives for and the tasks he faces are always on point and to see his legacy potential felt fresh and exciting.
