Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 1: Power and Responsibility

Coming to this as someone who hasn't read any spider-man before (I know, I live under some kind of comic-repelling rock or something) I really enjoyed this. For a re-telling of an old comic it felt very modern, which not all re-telling do. I enjoyed the art, I enjoyed the story, I enjoy Peter. Good book. ( )

collects ultimate spider-man #1-7 ( )

I have been a comic fan since I was an early teenager, and out of the many comic books that I've read, I have to say that I like the Ultimate series. The series stays true to the originals, but they have a modern take. I also like the art. It's clear, bright, and crisp. ( )

Collects Ultimate Spiderman #1-7 ( )

Kara Baker
Book Reviews
EDCI 4120/5120

Jemis, B. & Bendis, B.M. (2001) Ultimate spider man, vol. 1. New York: Marvel Comics

CATEGORY: Fantasy; Adventure, Comic.

READ-ALOUDS: Being a comic book, this does not work well for read alouds.

SUMMARY: Peter Parker is bitten by an experimental spider and his life is changed forever. This is an updated version taking us through Peter’s transformation, his Uncle Ben’s death and the introduction of the Green Goblin.

THEMES:
The major theme is this volume is responsibility. Peter’s transmutation into the Amazing Spiderman gives him amazing powers. With those amazing powers comes great responsibility. Peter has to learn this the hard way by losing his Uncle Ben. Osborn is also transformed through the use of chemicals. Unlike Peter, he decides to use his powers for evil.
A second theme is life as a geek in high school. Peter is picked on, pushed around and generally disrespected. He can’t hit a basket, he can’t stand up for himself, he can’t see without his glasses. His transformation gives him power, but it wreaks havoc with his school life and gets him into more trouble there.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Should companies like Osborn Enterprises exist? Do they serve a purpose? Are they evil or good?
2. What would you do with powers like Peter’s? How tempted would you be to use them for your own benefit?
3. What do you think of Mr. Osborn as a father? What about as a boss? What would you do if you worked for him?

READER RESPONSE:
While I’m not really “into” comics, I did enjoy the experience of reading this one. The text and pictures create a sensory experience that greatly differs from a standard novel. I would recommend a book like this for students who have a short attention span, who like action and who can tolerate the constant change in scene. ( )