Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Shannon Gallant; John Stanisci; Cory Hamscher; Norman Lee; Dave Sharpe; Sean Chen; Sandu Florea; etc.
SUMMARY:
As a Target exclusive, this 96-page paperback reprints the all-ages Marvel Adventures: Avengers # 5-8, which were originally published in 2006-2007. The Avengers team consists of Storm (in a black-and-yellow, Ms. Marvel-inspired costume); Giant Girl (aka the Wasp); Iron Man; Spider-Man; Hulk; Captain America; and Wolverine. In this storyline, the Avengers’ new nemesis, Loki, conjures up new super-villains to challenge these Avengers.
The first story is entitled “The Trickster & the Wrecker.” After facing the Avengers, Loki magically transforms a burglar by enchanting his crowbar and transforming him into the powerful Wrecker. In an origin reflecting evil’s answer to the ‘Fantastic Four,’ the second story introduces the Hulk’s four U-Foes (X-Ray, Ironclad, Vapor, & Vector). A third tale pitches an alternate origin for the Juggernaut. The collection concludes with a rematch vs. Loki, as it comes down to the last Avenger standing.
REVIEW:
In this alternate ‘reality,’ it’s more or less implied that these Avengers are the world’s sole heroes (at least, on-screen). Using that context, these stories mostly make sense delving into the villains’ origins. Still, it’s odd seeing the Wrecker without his formidable Wrecking Crew pals (Piledriver, Thunderball, & Bulldozer).
Even more so, the odd absence of Thor and other Asgardians, given Loki’s presence, is frankly a letdown. Loki’s battle scenes are okay, but the Avengers’ brawls vs. the U-Foes & then the Juggernaut are neat. As for the Avengers themselves, this squad sports relatively good chemistry, considering half of the team consists of two X-Men and loners like Hulk and Spider-Man.
Requiring minimal Marvel knowledge, “Mischief” is enjoyable, especially the first story. The plots re: the U-Foes and Juggernaut follow similar formulas, but their stories live up to modest expectations. The surprisingly sharp artwork makes an engaging asset for writer Tony Bedard’s storytelling. This collection should make a satisfying, if not memorable, read for your elementary-age Avengers.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Full-page replicas of the covers are included.
BRIAN’S 10-STAR RATING: 5 Stars
