Shazam!: Origins - Softcover

"Once a more whimsical, humor-centered version of Superman, Shazam gets a modern makeover from Johns, main architect of DC's revamped New 52 universe. Johns, always at his sharpest when reimagining and streamlining an origin tale, darkens and deepens some of the character's hokiest elements and does so without tying them to an involved, new-reader-repelling backstory, creating a more palatable treat for longtime readers and superhero novices alike. Frank, among mainstream comics' finest craftsmen, provides standout art that grounds the action in reality and gives it dramatic weight with solid, beautifully expressive character work and gritty, exciting battle choreography." --Booklist

Young orphan Billy Batson has bounced from foster home to foster home, but he's far from the ideal child. Brash and rude, Billy is a troubled teen who just can't seem to find a calling. But after a fateful night on a subway car, that all will change. Brought to the feet of the magical wizard Shazam at the Rock of Eternity, Billy is imbued with powers beyond any mortal man. By shouting the wizard's name--Shazam!--the young teen is mystically transformed into the powerhouse known as Captain Marvel! Now given abilities that make him Earth's Mightiest Mortal at the utterance of a simple phrase, will Billy make the right choices and do what it takes to become a hero? Or will he succumb to the poor choices of youth--and the villainous Black Adam? Perfect for any new fan of the World's Mightiest Mortal, this new edition of Geoff Johns and Gary Frank's classic graphic novel features a photo cover of star actor Zachary Levi. Collects Justice League #0, #21 and stories from Justice League #7-11, #14-16 and #18-20.