Review: Spider-Verse #1

Stories By: Dan Slott

 

Spider-Verse #1 Released 12/11/14

Skottie Young

 

Robbie Thompson

 

Katie Cook 

Artist's: Humberto Ramos

 

  Jake Parker

 

Denis Medri

 

Katie Cook

 

 

Publisher: Marvel Comics

 

  Cover Price: $3.99

So the first part of the "Spider-Verse Anthology" has arrived. The accompanying book to the Spider-Event of 2014 is the vehicle for introducing us to some of the Spider's that are expected to feature in the ongoing storyline that currently is underway in Amazing Spider-Man.The book released today host's a number of short tales that show us how some of these Spider's get involved with the fight against Morlun and the Inheritors. As is the case of Spider-Verse. not all of the Spider-Men or Women depicted in this book survive, as Dan Slott and the rest of the team show us that Morlun isn't a threat to be taken lightly

1) Enter the Spider-Verse.

Each of the creative teams involved in this book place their own spin (Pardon the pun) into the Spider lore. in their own style. which gives the reader a refreshing look at a many times rehashed tale. the first of these is an intro into the Spider-Verse as told by the Great Weaver giving some explanation as to the role of the web of life and how the strands effect and penetrate all realities within the Marvel Multiverse. This short is written by Dan Slott and Pencilled by Humberto Ramos. I have to say i usually have problems with Ramos's art but in this short the art is a higher standard than usual which makes me question whether a twice monthly title is right for Humberto? still thats a question for another day as his work here is better than I've seen from him for awhile. As for the tale Slott's writing gets the point of it across well and as an introduction it does it's job with out being spectacular.

2) Spider-Clan: The Many

In Spider-Clan we are introduced to a new variation of Spider-Man, one who resides on Earth 2301. This world appears to have a Peter Parker who is a Himalayan bound monk or at least a Tibetan man with Spider powers. Written by current Rocket Racoon helmer Skottie Young with the artistic duties being handled by Jake Parker. We are shown that this Worlds Peter Parker feels a pull to "The Many" he assumes that this is referring to this world's Venom, whom Peter refers to as his brother. God knows what crazy world this is? during a confrontation with Venom who is hell bent on preventing Peter from entering a temple the many show themselves as a team of Spider-Men turn up and ask Peter to join them. 

Being someone who hasn't experienced Skottie Young's writing before I found this tale an interesting departure from the usual fare of the New York City canyons and look forward to seeing this version of Spider-Man playing a role within the overall Spider-Verse arc. Jake Parker's artwork felt a lot reminiscent of Skottie's own but it worked and gave the narrative a unique feel to the characters.

3)Steampunk Lady Spider

For the next tale we are invited back in time to the late 19th century New York where we are introduced to young 'May Reilly' yep that May Reilly or you might know her better as 'Aunt May'

Robbie Thompson's story takes place shortly after a Spider bite has occurred and Earth 803's incarnation of a Spider-person is already in place. this short tale is hard to work out as Lady Spider faces off against the six men of sinestry. to prevent them from acquiring the plans to New York's new subway system for reasons we the reader are not privy to the story resolves with an ambiguous ending but is much like an introductory tale. I do expect Lady Spider to take part in Spider-Verse as she had been named in solicitations and as a means to introduce the character to those who may not have been aware of her then this tale offers some interesting potential for the character, cant wait to see the interaction between 616 Peter and this version of May. 

4) Penelope Parker 

The highlight of this book, was for me this short that was written and pencilled by Katie Cook. the style of storytelling coupled with the artwork was a wonderful take as was the introduction of Penelope Parker and her world. This tale had such an innocent and cutesy feel to it. that i was instantly drawn into the story. the tale itself shows the all too familiar tale on the origin, with a spider bite and discovery of powers. the take on an 11 year old girl discovering she had fantastic powers and had to touch a boy was really funny. and although there was no indication of such i hope that Penelope doesn't end up becoming one of the fallen in the overall Spider-Verse arc.

There is also a couple of other short tales both written by Dan Slott, which are both funny in there own way and also fitting. the first is a one page advert in the style of the old Hostess ads that used to feature in Spider books back in the day. you know the ones where Spidey foils the bad guys with a twinkie or a fruit pie? well he tries it here and lets say it doesn't quite work on Morlun. 

Additionally there is also a nod to the Spider-Man daily strips where That Peter managers to survive an encounter with Morlun thanks to another web spinner.

Overall, I would say that in terms of being integral to the wider Spider-Verse arc this is not an essential book, unless like me you are a completest. but should you be intrigued enough to pick this book up. you won't be disappointed  our score for the book is a solid 7.5

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