REVIEW: ‘Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent,’ Issue #3

Having seen Ultraman felled by a previously unmet version of Superman and exhausted from his earlier struggles, Jon promptly passed out. Now, as he awakens in this new world, he will have to come to terms with who and what has taken place in Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #3, published by DC Comics, written by Tom Taylor, art by Clayton Henry, colors by Jordie Bellaire, and letters by Wes Abbott.

When the last issue revealed that Taylor would take this story back to his amazing Injustice setting, I was ecstatic. Having read some of the comics, as well as having devoured both games based on this finely crafted alternate Earth, I was thrilled to see Taylor return to this world. That Jon is the vehicle for this return is a particularly great choice, given how two of the most important people in his world have turned out. What this reality’s Clark Kent and Damien Wayne will present Jon with will not be an easy pill for him to swallow.

While the “What if Superman was a villain” concept has gotten a bit played out lately, the return of Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #3 to Taylor’s world works wonderfully because the story centers Jon’s reaction to this world rather than the world itself. As Jon explores the peaceful world Clark claims to have made for his humanity, Jon is faced with a truth that someone with his power must confront and understand. True peace cannot be forged by fear.

Jon’s journey through this book is reinforced through the excellent art. The world of Injustice has always been one of powerful emotions as the heroes were split and continued to battle each other. Henry doesn’t shy away from this energy, as every character that shows up brings a strong presence and powerful emotional energy to the panels. Reinforcing Henry’s lines is a superb color selection by Bellaire. While every panel throughout is colored wonderfully, Bellaire ratchets up the presentation in the final pages, as the lighting delivers a perfect mood for the issue’s decisive moment for Jon.

The final element of the visual presentation is Abbott’s lettering. The lettering here has to walk a fine line that Abbott manages to execute well. While this is a superhero book, and the sound effects design needs to embrace that, this alternate timeline has always been heavier than the standard superhero fare. As such, a bit of moderation is called for so that the enthusiasm of the audio design within the panels doesn’t conflict with the artistic tone while still getting the action to land. This is accomplished skillfully.

The only thing about Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #3 that may hold some readers back is the lack of clarity in the world’s presentation. With multiple years worth of back issues that have crafted this version of Earth, readers who are not familiar with how characters have found themselves where they are will have some questions as they go through this issue. While the most critical stuff is touched on, if you are a reader who doesn’t like feeling like they’ve entered halfway through a story, this one will pose some frustrations for you. I don’t think they are insurmountable, but they may be there.

Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #3 delivers an emotional tale that challenges its protagonist to learn and grow. Where it leaves off promises a lot, and I can’t wait to see what Taylor and company have planned going forward.

Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #3 is available now wherever comics are sold.