DC Special #21
Published and © by DC, April-May 1976
Title: “The Legion of Super-Creatures!”
Synopsis: When an alien death cult unleashes the monsters of Giantia on Earth, Superman must chance onto a defense.
Writer: Otto Binder
Penciler: Curt Swan
Inker: George Klein
Review: Such a promising cover. Superheroes vs. monsters? Sign Little Me up! But he would have been sorely disappointed to find that this is just a collection of reprints. This lead story, from 1965’s Action Comics #326, has the makings of a terrifying tale but offers Silver Age safety instead.
•••
Title: “The Leap Year Menace!”
Synopsis: When Green Lantern gets knocked out by a toy, the creature he crafted to avoid a marriage proposal runs amok.
Writer: John Broome
Penciler: Gil Kane
Inker: Joe Giella
Review: This second feature, from 1960’s Green Lantern #3, trades safety for outright silliness. Solid Gil Kane art, though.
•••
Title: “The Big House of Monsters!”
Synopsis: A cop and a crime boss escape an internment camp but wind up on an island filled with dinosaurs.
Writer: Robert Kanigher
Artist: Russ Heath
Review: The gorgeous art looks like a cross between Joe Kubert and Dave Cockrum. (From 1967’s Star-Spangled War Stories #132.)
•••
Title: “The Marvel Family Reaches Eternity!”
Synopsis: The Marvel Family travels to the Rock of Eternity to rescue the wizard Shazam from evil itself.
Writer: Uncredited (likely Otto Binder)
Artist: Pete Costanza
Review: This Golden Age Captain Marvel tale, from 1946’s The Marvel Family #7, blends elements from multiple mythologies. Fun stuff.
Grade (for the entire issue): B-
Cool factor: That cover logo screams “BUY ME!”
Not-so-cool factor: How is a monster created by Green Lantern’s power ring wearing red shorts?
Notable: Also includes a two-page “What Were the Dinosaurs?” text feature.
Character quotable: “You’re even more attractive when you smile! Now, how about a little smile?” – Green Lantern, apparently oblivious as to how this line goes over
Editor’s note: This review was written Oct. 18, 2026.
