In the first issue the story follows Jonathan and Martha Kent as they struggle to deal with their 12-year-old son, Clark, who’s developed a new ability – floating up into the air, sometimes hundreds of feet.

Honestly, I felt that this was a rather heartfelt issue to open up the series. There’s a sort of innocence that’s present, probably because we aren’t getting a Superman, but a young boy growing and discovering more about himself. I really did like the focus on his parents Johnathan and Martha who, up until this point, haven’t really stood out to me (Smallville and the DCEU being the only exceptions).

Let’s talk about Max Landis. I don’t know much about his work but I will admit that he does an awesome job of making this story heartfelt but funny. We know what Clark will become but it’s great seeing him as a kid, that vulnerability looming over his head and it’s up to his parents to protect him. I really loved the humor as well. Johnathan’s many attempts are rescuing his son as well as Clark trying to control it made for some great moments.

I have to give it to the artists, Nick Dragotta and Ryan Sook, for the overall presentation. First, Sook does a great job of giving us an interesting looking cover (honestly, it looks like the kid from Brightburn). The night time setting does a good job of making Clark stand out. Second, I really appreciated the effort by Dragotta. The Kansas cornfields were a good setting and the way the sprawling scenery adds to the overall tone makes for a great viewing.

In the end, Superman: American Alien #1 is actually good and it’s nice to see Clark as a scared child needing his parents protection and not the other way around. Thumbs up to everyone for a good job. Superman: American Alien #1 gets 4 out of 5.