Superman vs. the Flash

It would be rather pointless to provide a detailed review of this book, as you will either be intrigued by it (i.e. comic book or superhero fans) or have no time for it. As a life-long fan of Superman (and thus The Flash if only by his association with Supes) in all media outlets, I found that the most interesting aspect of reading this book was seeing how the comic themes evolved over time. In the first couple of stories, during what I consider to be the light-hearted comic book years (I'm not too good with all the different comic book "Ages"), the emphasis is placed not on the "Big Race" itself, but on what it is for or what happens along the way. Usually, the race is either run for charity or to keep Metropolis/Central City from being destroyed. Along the way, Superman/Flash run into obstacles that would allow the other to take a clear victory, but each helps out his fellow man. By the end of the race, the "world crisis" is averted and both superheroes cross the tape (rather predictably) in a tie. In the later, more serious stories, though, more competitive nature is shown by each hero. While the base story is the same (race to save the world from evil-doers), there is much more subtext given to how badly each hero wants to win the race. Though altruism always prevails, it is clear to see that it is much more difficult for the "modern" Supes/Flash than for their comic predecessors. So, if you are a Superman/Flash fan, or just like comic books in general, this compilation will intrigue you. Plus, if you are a history buff like myself, you will find it interesting to observe how the definition/actions of superheroes change throughout the decades.

This fun graphic novel is a collection of five story arcs, each of which pit Superman against The Flash in a foot race. Varying as they do in time (from 1967 to 2002!), there is a great difference between the stories in quality of graphics and seriousness of storyline. But, they are a lot of fun, sure to please any fan of The Scarlet Speedster and The Man of Steel. Give it a read, I think that you will enjoy it! In case you are interested, the five story arcs are: Superman's Race with the Flash - Superman #199, August 1967 - When the UN ask The Flash and Superman to have a footrace for charity, criminal syndicates start laying money on the outcome...and start trying to influence the race. The Race to the End of the Universe! - The Flash #175, December 1967 - Two all-powerful extraterrestrial gamblers make The Flash and Superman an offer they can't refuse, who ever wins a footrace between the two will save his city from complete destruction! Race to Save the Universe! - World's Finest Comics #198 & #199, November & December 1970 - The Guardians needs special help to save the universe, and only a race between The Flash and Superman can generate the energy needed. Chase to the End of Time! - DC Comics Presents #1 & #2, July-August & September-October 1978 - When an extraterrestrial arrives on Earth, he sets in motion a train of events that can end all life on the world. Both The Flash and Superman must move fast if they are to save the day! Speed Kills! - Adventures of Superman #462, February 1990 - Mr. Mxyzptlk knows the Superman can never be defeated, so why not organize a race between him and The Flash? Speeding Bullets - DC First: Flash/Superman, July 2002 - The supervillain Abra Kadabra puts a spell on Wally West, forcing him to run. But, as he runs he will age until he dies. He can only be saved by someone touching him, but whoever does will age and die instead. Neither Jay Garrick nor Superman can allow the other to make that sacrifice, so the race is on!

Admittedly, the very concept of Superman racing the Flash is childishly corny. However the stories here are still fun to read, especially if you grew up reading any silver age comics at all. The best stories are the original race by Jim Shooter and the modern homage to it by Dan Jurgens.