The DC Universe is already getting a healthy heaping of lore! The Superman prequel novel gives fans a new look at David Corenswet as the Man of Steel.
It’s no secret that James Gunn is taking a different approach to the DC Universe than the former helmers of the franchise. There has been a consistent push over the past decade to paint DC as the “mature” superhero franchise. However, Gunn and his team have bent over backwards to make it clear that Superman will be a film for everyone, especially the kids.
This has led to an absolute avalanche of new merch and tie-in products for Superman, even months ahead of release. This includes going places that no incarnation of the DC Universe has gone before. Or at least, in the past decade. That being, the world of prequel books for children. The cover for the novel has been revealed in the lead up to its release, giving a brand new look at David Corenswet as the titular hero.
The Junior Prequel Novel for Superman has officially been revealed.
“Welcome to Metropolis” will introduce young readers to how Superman found his place in his new home. pic.twitter.com/FJ5qbqi9El
— DCU Brief (@DCUBrief) April 21, 2025
What Is The Superman Prequel Novel About?
While it has been established that the DC Universe will have a very long and storied lore, James Gunn has kept much of it close to his chest. Even though it’s not out yet, this prequel novel is already providing some really interesting information about the franchise by way of its synopsis. Specifically, by giving David Corenswet’s version of the hero a brand new classification.
“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. Includes an eight-page full-color insert with character profiles!”
Traditionally, Superman has been described solely as an alien, which is distinct from being a meta-human in most incarnations of the DC Universe. Of course, it’s not likely that James Gunn plans to radically overhaul the character’s origins for his reboot. However, it does likely mean that the broader world views David Corenswet’s take on the hero, not as an outsider, but a human with special powers. That’s something that may serve as a point of contention in the plot of the upcoming film.
Superman is currently scheduled to hit theaters on July 11, 2025. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding the future of the DC Universe and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content!