As reported by USA Today, Superman will begin his slow climb back to national relevance the hard way: by touring the U.S. on foot. Next month’s 700th issue in the comic series will kick off the J. Michael Straczynski-penned “Grounded” story arc, in which Clark Kent’s alter-ego will travel from Philadelphia to Portland in the course of roughly one year, reconnecting with the real people of Earth and their real problems—emphasis on “real.”
Straczynski and DC Comics are currently searching for actual cities and towns, slums and suburbs to depict in those upcoming pages, and recently launched an essay contest for fans living in towns within 50 miles of the line marking Superman’s journey. Winners will see their towns represented in the comic series and graced by Superman himself.
The “Grounded” contest also coincides with DC Comics’ recent announcement that it’s reached a digital publishing agreement with comiXology and PlayStation®Network, both of which are currently offering 10-page previews of Superman #700.