Straczynski, J. Michael

Recommended for readers of true crime and intense family drama, behind-the-scenes stories of Hollywood and the world of publishing, sf/fantasy fandom, and, especially, Straczynski’s work.

The Man of Steel's new handlers keep the rust away without making Earth One top-tier; still recommended to all superhero fans. Superhero-style action and fight scenes aplenty; suitable for all but the youngest of readers.

As a murder mystery, Protectors Inc. draws the reader in and sets the scene for further issues. The main character isn't that compelling, but he's just the eyes and ears for the reader. It's the universe of superheroes being corporately owned that's so intriguing. For readers who enjoy murder mysteries and superheroes.

The reader may be just as confused as Wonder Woman, with the alternate time line becoming a device that changes abruptly the direction of the story; some may enjoy this, whereas others will find it incredibly frustrating. Recommended especially for readers interested in Wonder Woman.

The book's feel is Watchmen-lite (there's even a dead comedian). There is much of absorbing human interest here, from the differing responses of Captain Wonder and Rockman to the loss of their families to Mr. E's doomed reunion with his wife and son. But where are the therapists and educators who should be helping these people acclimate? And, since this is a Marvel Universe series, why have no other heroes—especially Captain America, who suffered the exact same fate—taken any interest in the 12? So far, good but not great.