[Hmntezmb]

I read a ton of comics - Superman included. As far as arcs - the death/return of superman is in a few very cheap trades - Death of Superman, World Without a Superman and Return of Superman.

Other's not connected but I've enjoyed immensely: Superman Secret Identity by Busiek, Up Up and Away by Busiek as well.

the first or any comics titled All-Star Superman by Morrison. Identity Crisis - not entirely about Superman but great story which leads into Infinite Crisis which of course you'll be totally lost if you're new to comics but hey, its a great Sups story.

New Frontier by Darwyn cooke, Red Son by Millar and of course Kingdom Come and Peace on Earth which of course will introduce you to Alex Ross. If you'd like to go further back and also understand some of the entire DCU history - Crisis on Infinite Earths but don't say I didn't warn you about being confused.

Oh yeah - Smallville is a must have and I can't do more than tell you to run out and buy or steal it - man I love that show.