Cover: Curt Swan & Stan Kaye

Action Comics #272

Jan 1961 · DC · 0.10 USD

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In "Superman's Rival, Mental Man!", Supergirl ventures to an Earth-like world where she encounters Marvel Maid, a hero who wields powers similar to her own with no need for secrecy, and Marvel Man, a being with Superman-like abilities who must conceal his identity. Written by Otto Binder and illustrated by Jim Mooney, this 1961 classic explores identity, visibility, and the burden of power through a compelling parallel universe. The cover by Curt Swan and Stan Kaye captures the mystery of this alternate realm with striking clarity.

Contains 3 stories

Superman's Rival, Mental Man!

12.67 pp · Superhero

Superman [Clark Kent]Lois LaneJimmy OlsenPerry WhiteLana LangLucy LaneAquaman [as Mental Man]"Ace" Ruggles (villain)Aqualad (flashback)Krypto (flashback)

In a 1961 tale from Action Comics #272, Lois Lane’s comic strip about the psychic hero Mental Man takes an unexpected turn when the character seemingly leaps from the page—only to fall head over heels for her. But as Superman and Aquaman quietly work to trap the real culprit, "Ace" Ruggles, the line between fiction and reality begins to blur.

Untitled Humor story

0.5 pp · Humor

Sir Egbert

The Second Supergirl!

13 pp · Superhero

Supergirl [Linda Lee]Marvel Maid [Lea Lindy] (origin)Marvel Man [Ken Clark] (origin)Superman

In "The Second Supergirl!" from Action Comics #272, Supergirl journeys to an Earth-like world to test her readiness for public heroism—only to meet Marvel Maid, a hero with powers like her own who lives openly, and Marvel Man, a Superman-like figure who must conceal his abilities. The story explores identity, freedom, and the weight of secrecy through the contrast between these two worlds and their heroes.