Last month we saw the beginning of the character now known as Superboy. While there are some similarities, we're continuing to see that this boy of steel has a different story.
The Good
There's something about stories that start out some time in the past and then jump forward to today. As long as the time in between isn't too long, it's fun to wonder what happened in between. This issue does go back to Superboy's early days and needless to say, there's a pretty big revelation (even if that revelation was already spoiled for some) and seeing it form was a great moment. This isn't the Superboy that was created during Reign of the Supermen. Those of us that find it hard to accept change might struggle over it but Lobdell is crafting a fine tale thus far and I can't help but wonder how this Superboy will shape up. If anything, we don't quite have that annoying attitude that we originally saw. Seeing the unlocked potential Superboy contains within will be curious to see if and when it's fully unleashed.
There's more developments with the character referred to as "Red" although her first name is finally confirmed. Rose Wilson is enjoyable as well and we have to wonder how her character will interact with Superboy once he is allowed to set foot in the real world. They have some 'history' due to Superboy's time in the virtual reality world but the Rose Wilson in the real world is another story.
While the first issue contained more of his beginnings, this issue gives more action. With the possible tie in to Teen Titans, it's going to be interesting to see how Superboy interacts with the rest of the DC Universe.
Also, the question I had about whether or not the Kryptonian language has been changed in 'The New 52' is answered.
The Bad
I'm on the fence with the art. I still think the bald Superboy in his tiny speedos is kind of weird looking. While he's supposed to be a boy (or at least a teen), it seems as if he should have more definition on his body. I can appreciate Silva's art style and I do like his versions of Rose and Red but I can't say I completely like how Superboy is drawn. It might be a minor thing but the way he's drawn from his chest to his waste, it looks like he doesn't have a waste.
As for N.O.W.H.E.R.E., I haven't quite formed an opinion on this mysterious organization.
The Verdict
I'm not a fan of the existing DC characters getting major tweaks to their origins but the incorporation of "Red" and Rose Wilson is making Superboy's story very interesting. This is a different Superboy. We have that bit of mystery as we're not quite sure how he'll end up. The last Superboy we knew started out as a jerk and then developed into a hero with a big and noble sense of character. The way Superboy keeps a little to himself and observes and learns from everything gives a sense that he could become extremely deadly. Red and Rose are great supporting characters as we find out a little more about each. Superboy gets to go out in the real world and it might not work out quite as planned. Lobdell's story builds up the action and suspense but Silva's art sometimes felt off to me, in particular the way Superboy is drawn. The more the story continues, the more excited I get.