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Parents' Guide to

Superman: Dawnbreaker

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Low-key but fun and surprising tale of teen superhero.

Book Matt de la Peña Science Fiction 2019
Superman: Dawnbreaker Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

ariadnee
ariadnee Parent of 3 and 8-year-old
April 14, 2019
age 13+

really heavy on the politics

I was really excited for this book. I Love superman, I love the series DC has been doing with these characters, and I had hopes. The book starts off fine, but as you get farther, it has an obvious political agenda. It deals with illegal immigration, and though I disagree with the agenda, I've read plenty of books that I disagree with, but still enjoy. People are people, after all, and no matter what side of the fight you're on, you have emotions, justifications, and reasons. I even agree that Clark would probably side with this political view. But I felt like it was being pushed really, really far. I had little connection to the characters, and I felt that the politics was being shoved down my throat, rather than a part of the story. It didn't find it realistic. I really wanted to finish the book, because at some points I really did enjoy it, but eventually I stopped. The good parts weren't enough to keep me going. I thought maybe it was just because I disagreed with the politics, but after some searching, I saw that there were plenty of other people who agreed with the politics, but still felt like the characterization and story line were sacrificed for it.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

As SUPERMAN: DAWNBREAKER begins, Clark Kent is struggling with the superpowers he wants to keep hidden from his friends in Smallville. Thanks to his super-hearing, he learns that migrant workers are disappearing from town. Teamed with ace journalist Lana Lang, he begins an investigation that leads to his parents' farm. Why are trespassers interested in the Kents' old barn? Before he knows it, Clark is battling for the survival of his hometown, as well as learning the secret behind his own mysterious origins.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

It's tempting to make main characters too good to be true, but this surprising tale of an iconic American superhero gives Clark Kent some interestingly rough edges. He may seem like a Goody Two-Shoes for much of Superman: Dawnbreaker, but when he gets riled by injustice, watch out! Author Matt de la Peña captures the essence of the teen Superman, making his optimism and compassion understandable and exciting.

The immigration subplot is timely, if laid on a little thick. The supporting cast is varied and well-defined, and the usual villain, Lex Luthor, is a more ambiguous figure this time. A lot happens to Clark in only a few days, and there are plenty of twists and surprises in the plot. Comics fans are likely to enjoy the in-depth portraits that prose allows and will see an iconic character from a different perspective.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Superman: Dawnbreaker presents Clark Kent during his formative years. How do you define "hero"? What characteristics do heroes share?

  • Why does Clark worry about using his powers in front of witnesses? Should people with special talents be expected to help the weak and downtrodden?

  • Why is immigration such a divisive issue in this country? What kinds of rights do migrants have that protect them from injustice?

Book Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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