B1 – Intermediate
It was in 1939 when the comic book Superman # 1 first came out. It started the genre of superhero comics. Superman No. 1 went on to become the inspiration for many other superheroes that followed.
A copy of the first Superman comic that is in perfect condition belonged to three brothers who found it after 86 years of just collecting dust in their late mother’s house.
At an auction, it was sold for $9.12 million.
Read the article about Superman #1 comic selling for $9.12 million at an auction.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2511/251124-superman-comic-5.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is an “auction”? “A pristine copy of the very first self-titled Superman comic has been sold at auction for $9.12 million.” Use the word in a sentence and give a synonym.
- What does “blueprint” mean here, “Superman No. 1 became the blueprint for today’s modern superheroes.” Use the word in a sentence. What’s another meaning of “blueprint”?
- What does “mint condition” mean? “Mint condition copies are very rare because many people cut off the front cover to use as a poster.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
Discussion Questions:
- Share your thoughts about the story of the three brothers and them finding this comic at their late mother’s house after 86 years.
- What do you think about the amount of money that this comic was sold for?
- What are your thoughts on this comic being the “pinnacle of comic collecting?
- Do you like collecting? Why or why not?
- If there is one piece of pop culture history that you could have, what would it be and why?
- What is the most priceless thing you own and why is it so valuable for you?