The Good
Let's start out by saying, "Holy Crap, Dustin Nguyen!" We've been seeing a couple pages by Nguyen at the end of the issues but this one features a bit more. Dustin's pages give us a flashback moment into Clark's childhood. It's great to see and further illustrates Scott Snyder's telling of who Superman is. What makes it really work here, rather than feel forced or redundant, is the way bits of hit are sprinkled throughout the main story.
Speaking of the main story, we still have Superman working with Wraith. It's a strange alliance and one we'll have to keep a close eye on. More and more, Wraith is becoming an interesting character. It's fascinating to see the details of his story trickle out and for Superman to be able to interact with someone close to the same power level. He's already told Superman some things about his powers he wasn't familiar with. What else could he know?
Of course there is more to the issue than just Superman and Wraith. Lois has found herself captured by Ascension. They've made an interesting accusation last issue. You have to love seeing Lois in such a feisty manner. Hopefully it won't mean the end for her.
Another intriguing aspect is a conversation that Wraith and Superman have. Accompanied by Jim Lee's art, we get a fantastic trip during the narration. To this day, I still can't get enough Jim Lee art. Whether it's making Lois look stunning while captured after a plane crash or the menacing look of Wraith, it's all a joy to see.
The Bad
It was another fun issue. But where were Lex and Jimmy? We'll have to wait until the end of January, I guess.
The Verdict
What better way to end 2013 than with a Superman comic by Scott Snyder, Jim Lee and Dustin Nguyen? We're getting more answers here about Wraith, Ascension and even another look into Clark's past. The combination of Scott Snyder's script with Jim Lee's art as well was Dustin Nguyen's art in the flashback sequences makes this a great issue to end 2013.