If you’ve got a friend who claims to know everything about Superman, it’s time to level the playing field. Get your hands on Superman: The Ultimate Guide by Matthew K. Manning and Daniel Wallace and get an edge before James Gunn’ Superman (2025).

Packed with decades of history, character insights, iconic storylines and little-known trivia, this guide is the ultimate resource to stay ahead in any Superman debate.

Published by DK in June 2025, it is a complete and beautifully designed book about the Man of Steel. It covers his origins, friends and enemies, famous stories and how his legend has changed over time. With around 216 pages, this hardcover book stands out for its modern look and rich visuals. It takes you through Superman’s whole journey — from his birth on Krypton, to growing up in Smallville and living as Clark Kent in Metropolis.

From the creation of the Fortress of Solitude to the reasons behind Lex Luthor’s hatred of Superman, from Superman’s debut in Action Comics #1to the evolution of Detective Comics into DC, Superman: The Ultimate Guide explores it all. It also has details of all the leagues and societies Superman has been a part of.

The guide is organised thematically: the early sections explain Superman’s alien heritage and formative years, transitioning into chapters focused on his journalistic life, core relationships (Lois Lane, the Kents) and a robust gallery of allies and villains — Lex Luthor, Doomsday, Supergirl and others. Each profile balances bitesized bios with visual elements like timelines, key comicissue highlights and signature powers and gadgets.

Though centred on the 2025 timeline, it seamlessly blends classic SilverAge nostalgia with modern interpretations, including updated art treatment and storylines that resonate with today’s readers. The inclusion of modern angles, evident in sidebars and updated graphics helps bridge the gap for long-time fans and newcomers.

Superman, now nearing 90 years since his debut in Action Comics #1 (1938), has evolved alongside global history. More than just a superhero, he reflects the world’s changing times — fighting corruption during the Great Depression, symbolising patriotism in World War II and defending ideals during the Cold War. In modern eras, his stories explore complex questions about morality, justice and relevance in a shifting world.

Make sure you read it before going to watch the James Gunn movie, it would help understand the characters and would give you an edge, when the next time you encounter a Superman debate with your friends.

Published in Dawn, Young World, July 12th, 2025