Written by (See Credits Below)
Art by (See Credits Below), plus Jeron Quality Color
Cover Art by Stuart Immonen & Laura Martin
SUMMARY:
As a 2004 Target exclusive, this 96-page paperback reprints four tales: Marvel Team-Up # 1 (from 1972); Uncanny X-Men # 143 (from 1981); Amazing Spider-Man # 314 (from 1991); and Incredible Hulk # 378 (from 1991). Intentionally or not, all four tales occur on a Christmas Eve.
“Have Yourself a Sandman Little Christmas.” Writer: Roy Thomas & Art by Ross Andru; M. Esposito; & Artie Simek. Spider-Man recruits Johnny Storm/Human Torch for a rematch vs. the Sandman. Yet, the Sandman has other holiday plans.
“Demon.” Co-Writers: Chris Claremont & John Byrne & Art by John Byrne; Terry Austin; Tom Orzechowski; & Glynis Wein. Home alone at the X-Mansion, young Kitty Pryde spends a terrifying night fending off a bloodthirsty demon.
“Down and Out in Forest Hills.” Writer: David Michelinie & Art by Todd McFarlane; Rick Parker; & Bob Sharen. Targeted in a personal vendetta, Peter and Mary Jane Watson-Parker are evicted from their condo. In between web-slinging heroics, Peter must improvise some new lodgings for his family.
“Rhino-Plastered.” Writer Peter David & Art by Bill Jaaska; Jeff Albrecht; Joe Rosen; & Glynis Oliver. Rick Jones entertains a group of unruly boys at a children’s hospital with an offbeat tale. The misunderstanding involves a mall Santa’s (the Rhino’s new gig) fisticuffs with the Hulk.
REVIEW:
To this compilation’s credit, its appeal (per the terrific cover image) should equally satisfy kids and adults. Of the four vintage tales, despite some implied horror, “Demon” easily prevails in terms of both its high-caliber writing and artwork standing the test of time. Peter David’s “Rhino-Plastered” deserves a honorable mention for the Hulk’s well-played holiday hijinks.
Re: the two Spider-Man tales, both make good reads — only most of the faded artwork in “Down and Out in Forest Hills” doesn’t age well. Overall, at a reasonable price, Marvel Age: Holiday Special offers an entertaining buy.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Full-page replicas of the covers are included.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6½ Stars
