SMALLVILLE #3 (DC Comics)

Best for: ages 10 and older

THE STORY/ARTWORK...

This little book is unique in the world of comics in that it's more like a combination entertainment magazine/comic book adventure. Based on the WB Television hit series of the same name, SMALLVILLE brings a lot to the table in order to woo its readers. Here in issue #3, we are treated to an editorial focus on the young Lex Luthor, who as we all know will grow up to become Superman's worst enemy. But at this point in SMALLVILLE, he is also Clark Kent's best friend.

The two comic stories in issue #3 are surprisingly intelligent and that should appeal to both tweenagers and teenagers (or any other fans of the TV series). The first story, "Chimera" is straight up action that races along with mystery and intrigue like a suspense movie (The Recruit comes to mind). In this story, a close friend of Lex's is inexplicably murdered, and Lex is the prime suspect. But all is not as it seems, least of the "military intelligence" and FBI agents to arrest young Mr. Luthor...

The second comic is "Vows," and offers a glimpse of Lex Luthor as a child. Though not as action-packed as the first, it has surprising heart as Lex becomes a role model for dealing with grief and the hardships of life. It adds nice depth to the SMALLVILLE character, making him more three-dimensional that expected.

Magazine style features here are also fun. The best treat is an interview with actor Michael Rosenbaum, who reveals some lighthearted "behind the scenes" information about what it's like playing Superman's best friend/worst enemy on TV. There are also episode summaries for four shows from SMALLVILLE's inaugural season, and a brief excerpt from a novel based on the series.

In all, this was an entertaining and surprisingly good comic/magazine. Though not photo-realistic, the artwork still captures the appearances of actors from the show nicely. Add in the magazine feature photography and you've got something that should be fun reading for your family's fans of the show.

THE CONTENT ELEMENTS...

Positive Themes/Topics For Discussion: Loyalty; making wise decisions; handling grief; family relationships.

Potentially Objectionable Elements: Action violence; one mild expletive.

Spiritual/Religious Content Elements: None.

For Further Discussion...

If members of your family choose to read this comic, use these questions to spark discussion about it afterward:

• The consequences of Lex Luthor's choices will eventually place him on opposite sides with Clark Kent and make Superman his enemy. What choices could Lex make during the Smallville time of his youth that would have allowed him to avoid this future?

• How might the Bible help you bring about positive consequences out of your life choices today?

• What's the best advice you might give to Lex Luthor if you had a chance? Do you think he'd listen to you? Why or why not?

• What's the best advice you've heard from the Bible? How often do you listen to--and take--that advice? Why or why not?