If you often look at the sky and try to figure out if it’s a bird, if it’s a plane, or if it’s Superman, then, my friend, you know that you’re a true fan.
Superman is, without a doubt, one of the oldest and most popular superheroes of all time, and for good reasons. Superman comic books have not only been entertaining to read, but the character and his journey have been deeply inspiring and act as a symbol of hope. I mean, let’s not kid ourselves, without even asking, I think it’s safe to say that as kids, we’ve all worn our underwear on top of our shorts, donned a makeshift cape, and ran around the house acting like we’re the Last Son of Krypton and we’re going to save the world someday.
Created by Jerry Siegel and illustrated by Joe Shuster for Action Comics #1 in April 1938, his comic books have taken us everywhere—from the wheat fields of Smallville to the farthest edges of the multiverse. We’ve seen Superman fight all kinds of creatures, outsmart some of his human counterparts, and perform deeds that would make even the all-brooding Batman shed a tear or two. There’s something timeless and humble about him that is rarely found in any other superhero, which makes him very relatable.
So, if you’ve known Superman only through shows and movies, then we’ve created a list of the top 7 Superman comic books to read online and through physical copies that have entertained us right through our childhood to adulthood. This isn’t a list of “popular” comics; these are stories that display the true version and some unique takes on the Man of Steel that we’ve grown to love.
How Many Superman Comics Have Been Published in Total?
In nearly 90 years since its release, there have been numerous story arcs with multiple issues, which account for over 10,000 comic book issues. When you include team books and appearances in titles like Justice League, Superman’s total appearances go even higher. Since Superman has been one of the most important parts of the DC universe, it’s really difficult to put an exact number.
Best Superman Comic Books in 2025
Across multiple timelines, reboots, and alternate realities, Superman’s journey is a sight to behold. Here are our favorite 7 Superman comic books:
BEST OVERALL
Superman: The Death and Return of Superman
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
The Superman: The Death and Return of Superman is one of the most emotionally impactful stories in the entire Superman comic book series. Written by Dan Jurgens and Louise Simonson, this massive tome collects the issues with stories that put Superman in an epic fight against Doomsday, a genetically engineered monster of Kryptonian origin.
With Doomsday wreaking havoc on Metropolis, no member of the Justice League has been able to stand against him, except Superman. It leads to one of the most brutal showdowns that he’s ever faced. The writers took a very bold decision and created one of the most iconic moments in the comic world—killing Superman, and it’s canon. In the aftermath of this chaos, four allegedly new Superman characters—Steel, Cyborg Superman, Superboy, and the Eradicator—emerge. So, are they the real Superman? If yes, then how? Well, you’ll only know when you read it, so do it!
Best Origin Story
Superman Birthright
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Superman Birthright is a fresh, modern take on Superman’s origin. Given the fact that there are quite a few of them out there, this is one of the best ones. Mark Waid has given the comic book world some incredible storytelling throughout his journey, and this continues that.
The story starts on Krypton, where baby Kal-El was sent toward an unknown planet in the hope that he would survive and thrive. Later, we find him, 25 years later, traveling the world as a young journalist, trying to find his purpose in life. Clark’s journey from Krypton to Metropolis and further feels more human and relatable than most other versions. His personality and arc develop when he meets Lois Lane, while he also faces foes like Lex Luthor. The ending, though, pew! It’s surprisingly emotional.
Best Narration
Superman for All Seasons
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Despite the name Superman for All Seasons, there is a certain warmth you constantly feel while reading this comic book. It’s probably the combination of Jeph Loeb writing and Tim Sale’s unique illustration style, which works so incredibly well that it makes it a fun read.
Superman for All Seasons is a beautiful coming-of-age story that follows Clark Kent’s journey from Smallville to Metropolis. The story spans four seasons, with each season narrated by a different person: Jonathan Kent (Spring), Lois Lane (Summer), Lex Luthor (Fall), and Lana Lang (Winter). The story isn’t some space-trotting journey of a superhero; it’s more grounded (at least in terms of previous Superman stories) for a hearty read. It’s a simple yet powerful narration that keeps you reading. If you wanted to get started with any Superman comic book, make it this one.
Best Elseworld Story
Superman: Red Son
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
With Superman: Red Son, Mark Millar has truly outdone himself with a unique take on the character. And it’s not just the story; even the illustrations from Dave Johnson, Kilian Plunkett, and a few others are quite consistent and maintain the theme throughout.
The story takes place in Elseworlds, where baby Kal-El, instead of crashing in Kansas, crashes in the Soviet Union in the 1950s. For those who don’t know Elseworlds, it’s basically where stories are standalone and are not connected to the main series in any way. This story is an absolute wild ride, which includes a Soviet-based Wonder Woman, Batman, and even the country coming under the rule of Superman. With Lex Luthor heading the United States, it’s a war brewing to happen. This is definitely one of the most intriguing stories to read.
Best Modern Story
All-Star Superman
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
The All-Star Superman is one of the most entertaining stories of modern times. Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely really nail the characteristics and heart of Superman. They’ve done a brilliant job in terms of both story and illustration, which makes this a must-have!
The story begins with Superman on a rescue mission that went wrong. But instead of dying, his body is overloaded by solar radiation, pushing his power limit further. There’s also a downside to this power: he has only one year left to live. As we know, Superman, instead of drowning in sorrow, sets out and accomplishes “Twelve Labors” before his time runs out. Meanwhile, Luthor injects himself with Superman’s DNA, giving him similar strength to Superman for 24 hours. What we loved about the story is how well it’s paced and shows how strong Superman can be by the end of it. All of the character interactions are also well done, which adds an emotional depth that the story needed.
Best Silver Age Story
Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
The Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow is a poignant and bittersweet farewell to Superman’s Silver Age era. Written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Curt Swan, the story tugs on your heartstrings.
The entire story is told from Lois Lane’s perspective, as she was the last to see Superman before he disappeared a decade ago. She recalls the final days of Superman, where he had to face the relentless wave of enemies like Brainiac-influenced Lex Luthor, Mr. Mxyzptlk, and even the threat of his identity being revealed to the world. Alan Moore has definitely delivered a great story that brings the Silver Age to a beautiful end for Superman—a fitting end to the hero.
Best PRE-New 52 Earth Story
Superman: Lois & Clark
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
The Superman: Lois & Clark has to be one of the most underrated gems in the Superman series. It offers a nice perspective and twist, giving readers something fresh to read. This is, without a doubt, one of Dan Jurgens’s best works, and the art by Lee Week is excellent!
Clark and Lois are living off-grid in an alternate dimension of the Earth under the last name “White”. They’re raising their kid, Jon, while Clark silently protects the world from its troubles and Lois writes under a pseudonym—Author X, investigating crime gangs like Intergang. What really works for the story is the balance between the hero’s and family lifestyles. The story shows a very grounded and mature theme, with stakes being very personal to Superman. It does remind you of the CW show Superman & Lois, which is also a fantastic live-action series that we’ve seen in a long time.
How We Chose the Best Superman Comic Books
These Superman comic books were chosen by our team of enthusiasts who’ve read nearly every arc and every issue that’s been released. To create this list, they shortlisted a wide range of stories that tell Clark Kent’s story in different ways and at different times of his life. The team also made sure that, if the readers are new to the comics, they need not have any deep prior knowledge of the lore, so that the readers’ experience isn’t affected in any way. So, if you’re a new reader or just want to revisit some of these, go ahead and pick the one you’d like to read first.
FAQ
What is the strongest Superman comic?
All-Star Superman and Superman Prime One Million are some of the comics that portray Superman at his peak power.
How much is Superman #1 worth?
The first Superman comic—Superman #1—was recently sold for $6 million.
Who is the strongest, Batman or Superman?
Superman is clearly the strongest among the two due to his superhuman abilities.
Who owns Superman #1?
Superman #1 was recently sold to an unnamed buyer at an auction. So, unless he reveals himself, it’s forever a mystery.
