Up Up and Away Reading Guide

Overview:

Up, Up and Away is an eight-issue Superman storyline published in 2006, spanning Action Comics #837-840 and Superman #650-653. Written by Geoff Johns and Kurt Busiek, with art by Pete Woods, this arc marks Superman’s return after a year-long absence during the Infinite Crisis event.

In the story, Clark Kent has been living without his powers for about a year, trying to lead a normal life as a reporter for the Daily Planet. However, when Metropolis faces increasing danger from a familiar and powerful foe, Superman is forced to reconsider his place in the world and whether he can reclaim his identity as a hero. Lex Luthor plays a key role as the central antagonist, presenting a menacing threat with new resources and a relentless plan.

Fans appreciated the storyline for its balance between Clark’s personal struggles and larger superhero action. The arc received generally positive reviews for its character-driven narrative and Pete Woods’ clean, energetic artwork. Critics noted how it successfully re-established Superman in the post-Infinite Crisis landscape while being accessible to both new readers and longtime fans. This arc also emphasizes Superman’s humanity and his importance as both a hero and a symbol for hope.

Best Way To Read:

• Superman: Up, Up, and Away
  • Collects: Superman #650-653, and Action Comics #837-840

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:

References:

• Wikipedia
• Comic Book Reading Orders

Feature Image from Action Comics #840 cover art by Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Alex Sinclair