6. Lex Luthor: Man of Steel
Writer: Brian Azzarello Artist: Lee Bermejo
Ok, not technically a book with Superman in the spotlight, but a worthy book nevertheless. Brian Azzarello tells the story of Superman's nemesis Lex Luthor, giving us his personality, his outlook, his reasons for despising and fighting Superman for his entire life. Luthor believes Superman is an untrustworthy alien being but, despite being portrayed more often than not as a one-dimensional villain, the Luthor of this book is charming quite often and always compelling. He's building a structure devoted to the accomplishments of humans and even takes the time to speak to janitorial staff, treating them decently instead of ignoring them outright. It's a lot better than the cackling mad scientist with plans of taking over the world caricature that readers are usually treated to as Azzarello makes him feel like a real person. Superman does show up in a wordless cameo while Bruce Wayne has a great scene with Lex as they discuss business over cocktails. But what's most memorable and weirdly interesting about this book is that Lex is building a robotic female version of Superman called Hope as part of his plans - and winds up seducing her! It's creepy but it also raises an interesting question - if Hope is supposed to replace Superman thus representing Superman and Lex sleeps with her, does Lex actually love Superman? Is that why he's so obsessed with him?
Azzarello and Bermejo would go on to create another fantastic book featuring another major DC Universe villain - Joker - but Lex Luthor is made just as interesting a character as Superman in this book. Bermejo's art is also stunningly beautiful throughout. Every great hero must have a great villain and Lex is a great villain - and this is his book. To get a full picture of Superman, this book is definitely worth picking up.