Before James Gunn’s Superman hits the big screen this July, DC fans will get a sneak peek into the Man of Steel’s early days in a new prequel novel titled Superman: Welcome to Metropolis, landing in bookstores on June 3.
It’s only 144 pages long, so it’s not a long read and it’s being aimed at younger readers, but that doesn’t mean older fans should skip it. This might be the first breadcrumb on the path toward understanding what Gunn’s DCU has in store.
The novel, published by Penguin Random House, follows a young Clark Kent just as he’s getting settled in Metropolis, juggling his gig at The Daily Planet and moonlighting as, well… the world’s first superhero. And yes, there’s already trouble brewing with a certain bald genius.
Here’s the official synopsis:
“Take to the skies with Superman in this original prequel novel based on the new film, in theaters July 11, 2025!
“Clark Kent is a fresh face to Metropolis, trying to balance his new job at The Daily Planet, and his secret identity as Superman, a powerful metahuman, while uncovering a dangerous mystery that seems to tie back to the infamous Lex Luthor. Discover how the world’s first super hero found his place in his new home in this original prequel novel based on the film.
“Superman: Welcome to Metropolis features an eight-page full-color insert with character profiles!”
It’s designed to set the stage, introducing readers to the vibe of Metropolis, teasing Lex Luthor’s role in the story, and letting us live alongside Clark during those awkward early days of heroism and newsroom coffee runs. You can bet fans will be combing through it for hidden details about Gunn’s big DCU reboot.
Comic book legend Mark Waid recently shared some powerful thoughts that underscore why Superman stories matter now more than ever.
“I think with all the turmoil going on, I think that there is a sense of dread that is an undercurrent to every moment of our lives, even whether we realize it or not.
“And Superman is always the symbol of hope. Superman is always the symbol of what we can accomplish if we pull together, what we can do if we have empathy.”
“What we can do if we make kindness a virtue rather than a weakness,” Waid added. “And I think that speaks to a lot of people right now. It certainly speaks to me.”
If you’re curious about the tone, themes, or character direction of the upcoming Superman film, Welcome to Metropolis might be worth a look.