Written by Todd Dezago & Mike Raicht Based upon Original Stories by Stan Lee & Steve Ditko
Art by Shane Davis; Jamal Igle; Gus Vasquez; Lary Stucker; Jay Leisten; Nate Massengill; UDON’s Larry Molinar; Hi-Fi; & Dave Sharpe
Cover Art by Michael Ryan; Roger Cruz; & SotoColor’s J. Rauch
SUMMARY:
Published as a 2004 Target exclusive, this 96-page episodic compilation assembles Marvel Age: Spider-Man # 13-16 from the 2004-2005. The original Stan Lee/Steve Ditko tales updated from the mid-1960’s are:
- “The Grotesque Adventure of the Green Goblin!” Spider-Man’s greatest foe makes his official debut. Eager to help with family expenses, Spider-Man agrees to play himself in a movie. In the California desert, the Green Goblin and the Enforcers make a formidable tag team vs. an unsuspecting Spider-Man. The Incredible Hulk also encounters Spider-Man for the first time.
- “Kraven the Hunter.” Kraven’s debut as a new Spider-nemesis is further complicated by the Chameleon’s return.
- “Duel with Daredevil!” Spider-Man and Daredevil (in his familiar red costume rather than the yellow-black-and red Silver Age costume) meet for the first time. Led by the scheming Ringmaster, the Circus of Crime commits an audacious big top heist with Spider-Man as their unwilling pawn.
- “Return of the Green Goblin” The mysterious Goblin seeks a rematch with his least-favorite wallcrawler. Of all people, Flash Thompson hosts a public Spider-Man pep rally. The Human Torch makes a cameo appearance.
Notes: The original Lee-Ditko stories are taken from Amazing Spider-Man # 14-17 (1964).
REVIEW:
It’s neat seeing Lee/Ditko’s Spider-Man revitalized. Even with necessary modern tweaks, these tales transport young readers to an uncomplicated world where a rookie Spider-Man is still very relatable. Meant to be kid-friendly, the mostly rudimentary artwork varies depends upon the issue. Of them, the stylish Daredevil issue has dynamite visuals.
For elementary schoolers, Marvel Age: Spider-Man – The Goblin Strikes packs a wallop. Another upside is that it’s a reasonable alternative to tracking down old Marvel Tales reprints (within Issues # 8-22 and later within # 151-166) re: the original Spider-capers. Still, adults will might appreciate more the charm of the classic reprints over this version.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The Marvel Age covers are included – each in a full-page format.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
