I started a quest to read all Spider-Man stories, one collection at a time. Today, I read Amazing Spider-Man by Nick Spencer vol. 1: Back to Basics. This is the start of Nick Spencer’s run in Amazing Spider-Man.
Reading Order
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY 2018 (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN/GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY) #1
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN (2018) #1-5
Recap
This story follows Peter Parker (a.k.a. Spider-Man) as he settles into his new life. We see him move into a new apartment with Randy Robertson and Boomerang; enroll at Empire State University after having his PhD revoked; and get back together with Mary Jane. At the same time, a new mysterious villain with ties to Mysterio is introduced, and Kraven the Hunter is seen setting up a grand scheme.
Review
There is so much going on in this story arc. Every issue is packed with flashbacks, explanations, and quick plot development. The tone of the series is lighthearted and comedic, with funny situations and dialogue. Other than development and buildup, not much else happens in these issues. The art is alright except for Mary Jane, who is drawn slightly cross-eyed and with crooked teeth. The most interesting part of this collection is the “Mysterio story”, a short arc that introduces a new unnamed villain. This story is essentially a horror story with Spider-Man characters, and it leaves readers wanting to see more of this new villain.
I would give this arc 3.5 (out of 5). I enjoy the idea of going back to the basics, but I felt that there was a lot of development being forced into the first five issues.
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