The Death-Ray by Daniel Clowes is a graphic novel that subverts traditional superhero narratives through the story of Andy, a teenage outcast in 1970s Chicago. Orphaned and living with his grandfather, Andy discovers that smoking cigarettes grants him superhuman strength. His only friend, the brash and manipulative Louie, convinces him to adopt a vigilante persona. Their exploits take a darker turn when Andy inherits a “death ray” capable of disintegrating objects and people. The narrative oscillates between Andy’s youth and his middle-aged self, exploring themes of power, alienation, and moral ambiguity. Clowes employs a non-linear storytelling approach, enriched by his distinctive illustrative style, to delve into the psyche of a protagonist who grapples with the consequences of wielding unchecked power. The novel challenges readers to reflect on the ethical complexities inherent in the superhero genre. Daniel Clowes, D+Q, 2001 Drawn&Quarterly 978-1770460515 Daniel Clowes 2001