Review by Frank Plowright

Chronologically, World’s Greatest Heroes presents the second batch of Adam Beechen and Carlo Barberi’s all age Justice League material, but there’s no need to pick up United They Stand first, as these are all standalone stories.

They’re an even better batch than the impressive opening volume, as Beechen really begins to play with the entirety of the Justice League. His opener is a team effort, considering both respect for what a hero’s achieved in the past, and the necessary humility to accept that perhaps their best days are gone. It’s followed by Supergirl coming to terms with the restrictions placed on her life, the Question investigating a traitor within the Justice League, Vixen realising the true potential of her magical totem and the Creeper required to understand insane criminals.

That final outing exemplifies the thought Beechen applies to the plots, including pleasing items for older readers, most of whom won’t bother with an all ages series. The entire theme is a tribute to the creations of Steve Ditko, and it’s an absolute joy. Young readers need not know nor care about that to enjoy a great adventure with comical moments. Beechen also alters the mood from story to story, with the Question’s solo as dark and grim as his personality.

Carlo Barberi again draws four of the five stories magnificently, but the Supergirl story by Ethen Beavers improves on his contribution to the previous book. It’s still well drawn and detailed, but there’s a greater clarity, and he even manages some Jack Kirby homages when the New Gods turn up.

Mentions of the two greatest creators of superhero comics in the 1960s should clue in fans of the era that despite being aimed at youngsters, there’s plenty for the older reader to enjoy in Justice League Unlimited. Champions of Justice is next.