Spoilers for All-Star Superman! DC Comics’ flagship hero, Absolute Universe initiatives, there’s one Superman story, in particular, that deserves to be revisited: a universally acclaimed tale that’s the perfect entry point to the Man of Steel no matter your knowledge of the character.

Released in 2005, All-Star Superman, written by Grant Morrison and illustrated by Frank Quitely, was a standalone series (and eventual DC Black Label story) that pulled ideas and concepts from across Superman’s decades-long history as a leading DC Comics hero.

Tackling themes of mortality, love, sacrifice, and what it means to leave behind the world in a better place than you found it, All-Star Superman tracks the final days of Kal-El after being overexposed to the Sun’s usually rejuvenating energy, setting the stage for a poignant yet action-packed tale perfect for fans unfamiliar with Superman outside of his live-action portrayals.

All-Star Superman Is a Perfect Read for New Fans Who Want to Experience All Facets of the Character

All-Star Superman - 2005 (Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely)

Putting Superman’s comion, resilience, determination, and strength front and center throughout All-Star Superman's award-winning 12-issue run, Morrison tasks Superman with completing the “Twelve Labors of Superman,” a set of feats that give new fans a comprehensive look at how he operates as a guiding influence and hero. Also featuring an epic battle with a vengeful Lex Luthor, a sweet side-story of Lois getting superpowers for 24 hours, Superman mourning the late Jonathan Kent, and eventually, Superman sacrificing himself to reignite the Sun, these moments do a great job of distilling the character down to who he is at his core.

Previously revealing they wanted to create a Superman story that was universally accessible, relevant, and real-feeling for anyone picking up the book out of the blue, Morrison made sure to weave in the most notable aspects of Superman's characterization and lore, painting an incredibly authentic picture of a character who’s as much a simple man as he is an invincible superhero. Sure, there may be a few deep-cut lore details, characters, and other referenced events that may puzzle the most casual of new readers, but overall, All-Star Superman successfully hits almost every facet of the hero with clarity and purpose.

All-Star Superman Features Characters and Ideas From the Man of Steel’s Long Comic Book Legacy

It goes without saying All-Star Superman should be enjoyed in the medium it was originally created for, but should fans prefer another way to digest this seminal superhero story, the DC Universe Animated Original Movies label released an animated adaptation of it in 2011 — a mostly solid but heavily pared down version of the comic story that thankfully still retained the heart, relatability, and overall hopeful message All-Star Superman conveyed on the page. It’s hard not to recommend this incredibly influential Superman tale, so regardless of how All-Star Superman is experienced, it's a story that simply needs to be experienced.

All-Star Superman is available from DC Comics.