Superboy & the Legion of Super-Heroes #243
Published and © by DC, September 1978
Title: “Earth’s Last Stand”
Synopsis: With the Legion spread thin, the Earth falls before the Khund invasion as the Dark Circle’s involvement is revealed.
Writer: Paul Levitz
Penciler: Joe Staton
Inker: Jack Abel
Review: Review: This issue is a step down from the previous two “Earthwar” chapters (see reviews of LoSH #241 and #242). The obvious reason is the change of artists: While Joe Staton delivers some serviceable work here it is not on par with James Sherman and Bob McLeod’s lush renderings. But Paul Levitz’s script is also a contributing factor. This issue is chockablock with developments, but there is too much tell and not enough show. Levitz would later handle similar material masterfully with “The Great Darkness Saga” (see reviews). This arc almost feels like a dry run for that superior tale.
Grade: B
Second opinion: Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: That Mike Grell cover.
Not-so-cool factor: Where did Sherman and McLeod go? They’re missed!
Notable: “The Legion Outpost” letters page includes an index of Legion appearances.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a Mark Jewelers variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “Just wait until the disrupter is in place – then we’ll turn that pest-hole into ashes!” – A Khund warrior, feeling confident
Editor’s note: This review was written Aug. 16, 2024.
