Superman: The Action Comics Archives #5
☆ Be the first to review + Add to your collection — Join freeThis fifth volume of DC's Archive Editions series reprints classic Superman stories from the Golden Age, specifically collecting issues #40-47 of Action Comics, originally published in 1941-1942. Featuring the work of writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, these tales include early appearances of Prankster and the debut of the Ultra-Humanite's successor, as well as wartime adventures that showcase the Man of Steel's evolving heroics. The hardcover edition preserves the original comic pages with restored color and historical notes, offering a definitive look at Superman's formative years.
In "The Lost-and-Found Mystery!", young Roger Carson sets sail on a fateful journey, guided by his dying father’s final request: follow the same course that made his fortune—unaware that a vengeful past awaits him. Written by Bill Finger and illustrated by Sam Citron with inks by Don Komisarow, this classic tale from Superman: The Action Comics Archives #5 unfolds with quiet tension and old-school adventure. The cover by Jack Burnley and Stan Kaye captures the mystery’s brooding atmosphere.
When mysterious ads in the Daily Planet promise fortunes for returning lost items, Clark and Lois are intrigued—until Lois vanishes, snatched by the Prankster in a scheme that pulls Superman into a game of clues and chaos. With help from Perry White, G. Clamm, J. Roger, Jitters, and Scriber, the Man of Steel must unravel a mystery where nothing is quite as it seems.
When the Thinker launches a series of clever schemes that even Superman can't crack, the hero decides it's time for a break. Taking a rare vacation, Superman hands over the reins to Clark Kent—only to discover that his alter ego might be more than just a disguise.
In "Superman and the Super-Movers!", Superman steps in to help a small moving company, Super Movers, when a rival tries to take it over—using the business as a cover for a robbery. With Lois Lane, Perry White, and the quirky crew including Mr. Grogan, Mr. Bixley, and Mr. Sniggle, Superman proves that heroism isn’t just about flying or strength, but also about standing up for the little guy.
When a string of bizarre robberies targets people’s cherished hobbies, Superman teams up with Lois Lane and Perry White to uncover the culprit—only for Clark Kent to realize his own passion for clock collecting has made him the next target. With the Hobby-Napper, Lucius Spruce, holding his prized timepieces hostage, Superman must outwit a thief who’s as clever as he is eccentric—before time runs out.
When Adelbert Dribble steals Superman’s identity to win Bertha Bigge’s heart, he quickly learns that playing the Man of Steel comes with more complications than he ever expected—especially when Lois Lane and Perry White start asking questions.
In a twist on timeless tales, the cunning Johnny Aesop turns to crime, reimagining classic fables as modern heists to prove a point and claim his due. With Superman, Lois Lane, and Perry White caught in the middle, the city’s most trusted hero faces a foe who’s not just clever—but deeply personal.
When young Roger Carson inherits his father’s fortune on the condition that he sail the same perilous route that made his father rich, he sets out with little more than a map and a name—Black Patch, a man whose lost eye bears a grudge from a past encounter with Roger’s father. With the help of a young man named Brad Hale and the ever-watchful presence of Superman, Roger’s journey becomes a test of courage, legacy, and the kind of destiny that’s written in the stars and the sea.
When the Prankster strikes again—this time posing as a blind news vendor and fabricating sensational Daily Planet headlines—Superman, Lois Lane, and Perry White must untangle a web of deception that turns the city’s news cycle into a high-stakes game of manipulation. With the help of a skeptical reporter and a suspicious businessman, they race to uncover the truth behind the headlines before the hoax spirals out of control.
When ex-pug Biff Condor sees a struggling small businessman thriving in a prime nightclub spot, he schemes to push him out—only to find himself outmaneuvered by a mysterious chef with a knack for turning chaos into culinary gold. With Superman keeping a watchful eye and a curious new player named Sergei stirring the pot, the stakes rise in this quirky, fast-paced tale of ambition, rivalry, and the unexpected power of a well-plated meal.
When J. Wilbur Wolfingham rolls into Metropolis with a flashy "rags to riches" scheme, Lois Lane sees her chance to expose his self-serving hustle—only to find herself caught in a web of deception where even Superman might not be enough to untangle the truth.
When strange and inexplicable events start plaguing Clark Kent, Superman knows only one culprit could be behind them: the mischievous Mr. Mxyztplk. With Lois Lane and Perry White caught in the chaos, the Man of Tomorrow must confront the interdimensional prankster once again—before reality itself starts unraveling.
In "Fairyland Isle!", Superman, Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen join forces with a determined dreamer, John Nicholas, to bring a magical Christmas wonderland to life for children—only to face unexpected sabotage from the dis-inherited heirs of the island’s original benefactor. With Santa Claus himself lending a hand, the dream takes flight, but the true test of generosity and goodwill is just beginning.
In "The Water Sprite!", Superman investigates a mysterious report from a young woman claiming to have seen a water sprite, only to uncover a web of deception tied to a dam built with dangerous shortcuts. As Lois Lane and Perry White press for answers, Superman must navigate the truth behind the legend and the hidden risks threatening the community.
When two aspiring magicians accidentally stumble into real supernatural abilities, their innocent act catches the eye of crime boss Hijack Dorley, who sees a golden opportunity to exploit their powers for his own gain. With Superman watching from the sidelines, the unlikely duo must navigate the chaos of their newfound fame—and the very real danger of being used by someone far more ruthless than they ever imagined.
When Tommy Allen is assigned a Saturday essay, he’s convinced his life is too dull to write about—until a chance encounter with Superman shakes up his world. With the help of his quirky classmates and a mysterious new teacher, Tommy discovers that even the quietest moments can hold something extraordinary.
When toy ships begin attacking freighters, reporter Clark Kent suspects the mischief is the work of the recently escaped Toyman, pulling strings from the shadows. With Lois Lane at his side and Perry White breathing down his neck, Superman must piece together the puzzle before the next toy-filled threat strikes.
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Reprints
↩ Reprints Action Comics #69 (1944), Action Comics #70 (1944), Action Comics #71 (1944), Action Comics #72 (1944), Action Comics #73 (1944), Action Comics #74 (1944), Action Comics #75 (1944), Action Comics #76 (1944), Action Comics #77 (1944), Action Comics #78 (1944), Action Comics #79 (1944), Action Comics #80 (1945), Action Comics #81 (1945), Action Comics #82 (1945), Action Comics #83 (1945), Action Comics #84 (1945), Action Comics #85 (1945)
Reprinted in Superman: The Golden Age Omnibus #4 (2017)
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