Return to Krypton Reading Guide

Overview:

Return to Krypton is a Superman story arc published in 2001, written by Jeph Loeb, with art from Ed McGuinness and others, including Pascal Alixe. The storyline ran through several Superman titles at the time, such as Superman and Adventures of Superman.

The arc follows Superman as he revisits his home planet of Krypton, but not in the way readers might expect. Key characters include Superman (of course) and Lois Lane, with notable appearances from familiar figures of Superman’s origin story. The antagonists vary, but the looming presence of Krypton’s impending fate gives the story an emotional weight.

“Return to Krypton” is known for blending superhero action with more personal, character-driven moments. Loeb’s writing highlights Superman’s internal conflict and desire to connect with his roots, while McGuinness’ bold, muscular art style complements the epic scope of the narrative. Fans generally received the story positively, appreciating its exploration of Superman’s heritage, while some critics pointed out that it felt more like a nostalgic trip than an essential plotline.

It’s not the deepest Superman story, but it offers a fun, visually impressive journey through one of the most iconic aspects of the character’s mythos.

Best Way To Read:

• Superman: Return to Krypton
  • Collects: Superman vol. 2 #166-167, 184, The Adventures of Superman #589, 606, Superman: The Man of Steel #111, 128, and Action Comics #776, 793

For crossover and significant events, I typically only read the main story the first time I encounter it. Trying to read all of the tie-ins with the story tends to make them increasingly convoluted and are not crucial to the main narrative. However, I think they are important to read, as many series-shifting plotlines can happen.

For the tie-in issues, I only read them as they come up in the reading guide that I am working through. This can become problematic because the tie-in issues are not always included in collected editions of the event. So you may need to hunt for them.

Reading Order:

Return to Krypton

In Return to Krypton, Superman embarks on a journey back to his home planet, seeking to uncover his origins and confront the lingering shadows of his past. As he navigates this familiar yet foreign world, he encounters key figures from Krypton’s history and grapples with the emotional weight of his heritage. The storyline blends superhero action with personal reflection, highlighting Superman’s desire for connection.

Title	Importance	Collected
Superman Vol. 2 #166	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Adventures of Superman #589	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Superman: The Man of Steel #111	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Action Comics #776	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Superman Vol. 2 #167	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton

Return to Krypton II

In Return to Krypton II, Superman’s adventures continue as he faces new threats and challenges that arise during his time on Krypton. This arc further explores the complexities of Kryptonian culture and the legacy of Superman’s family, pushing him to confront the implications of his heritage. With an emphasis on character development, the story deepens the emotional resonance of Superman’s ties to his lost home.

Title	Importance	Collected
Superman Vol. 2 #184	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Adventures of Superman #606	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Superman: The Man of Steel #128	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton
Action Comics #793	Main Story	Superman: Return to Krypton

Feature Image from Superman: #18 cover art by Mike Mignola and John Byrne