Superman: Dawnbreaker

Gr 8 Up—In the latest series installment, de la Peña brings teenage Clark Kent to the present day, fighting against racial prejudice, abduction, and genetic experimentation in Smallville. Clark has just left the football team, much to the chagrin of his teammates, who feel betrayed. While he may have been the best player on his team, Clark knows quitting is for the best, giving him more time to spend with his best friend and aspiring journalist Lana Lang. Clark begins hanging out with Bryan, son of a powerful businessman who is trying to buy up family farms, and Bryan's mysterious friend, Lex Luthor. Tensions are high as the town prepares to vote on a stop-and-search initiative. Prejudice and violence toward Smallville's Mexican population are increasing, and Clark's friend and crush, Gloria Alvarez, claims that people are disappearing. As Clark learns the truth about his past and questions his identity, one thing remains true: Clark will always help those in need. This is a modern and relevant take on Clark Kent's teenage years, ending with the protagonist taking on the role of Superman. New characters seamlessly interact with familiar ones.