Apparently, rumbling says that this week is going to be a busy one from DC Comics, as their blog “The Source” has promised new, major announcements all week long.

And they’ve certainly started with a bang with the new Earth One project.  Set to launch later this year, Earth One is designed to get new readers involved in the DCU, with new, continuity light versions of iconic characters.  Sound familiar? Yeah, it’s kind of the mission statement of the Marvel Ultimate Universe, which launched just about 10 years ago.

Never the less, DC is firing with all guns loaded, starting the series with their two most iconic characters, Superman and Batman respectively, and with great creative teams.

Superman: Earth One will be helmed by J. Michael Straczynski and artist Shane Davis. Batman: Earth One gets the superstar duo of Geoff Johns and Gary Frank.  The first preview images released appear above, and you can click on them for larger versions.

What makes the Earth One titles particularly palatable is their release format.  Each book will be in graphic novel format, telling a complete story, in presumably 100+ page installments.  They’re going right for the trade market from day one.

Honestly, I think this is the wisest and most shrewd move from DC in ages, and I’m all for it.  Let me know when I can pre-order, gang.  I’ll be there at my comic store that Wednesday.

Newsarama.com : DC: EARTH ONE is Born As Ongoing Graphic Novels.