A MARVEL INSIDER’S READING LIST
Marvel Insider Jason Frankhouser from Louisiana breaks down his Marvel Favorites! Become a Marvel Insider today, and earn points to redeem for exclusive rewards just for being a Marvel fan – including the chance to curate your own Reading List for thousands of fellow fans!
Try Jason’s Must-Reads!
In Amazing Fantasy (1962) #15
Stan Lee and Steve Ditko bring you the 10-cent comic book that has influenced millions around the world. This debut issue of Spider-Man broke new ground within the comic book industry and started Marvel on its journey to being the internationally beloved brand it is today. And if that wasn’t enough, Spidey’s origin is a pretty good story too. If you want to go back to where it all started, this is your go-to comic.
In The Savage She-Hulk (1980) #1
After lawyer Jennifer Walters is the target of a drive-by shooting, her only chance of survival is receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin Bruce Banner. When she recovers, she discovers that she has the incredible powers of the Hulk. Due to her witty personality, She-Hulk has become a fan-favorite character. She also has the distinction of being a co-creation of Stan Lee!
Marvels by Alex Ross & Kurt Busiek
In Marvels (1994) #1
Before spinning tales of good Samaritans and dark confessions, Kurt Busiek humanized the battles of super beings in Marvels. Utilizing the spectacular talents of artist Alex Ross, the story follows a photographer as he witnesses the huge events of the Marvel Universe from his on-the-ground perspective. This unique look at our favorite heroes had never been explored like this and has not been matched since.
In Daredevil (1998) #16
This first issue in the 4-part story “Wake Up” follows reporter Ben Urich as he unravels a mystery involving the son of the villain Leap Frog. Writer Brian Michael Bendis brings an emotional vulnerability to Urich while artist David Mack adds to the story-telling process with his art. Going back and forth between the real world and Timmy’s reality, the art grows more surreal as his memories become more disturbed.
In Silver Surfer: Requiem (2007) #1
After Reed Richards tells him that his body has lost the ability to regenerate itself and that he will soon die, Norrin Radd goes on a journey to say goodbye to old friends, bring peace to two planets at war, and reconcile with Galactus. While the subject matter is quite sad, writer J. Michael Straczynski portrays the Surfer’s death as a bittersweet end to a life that was spent towards the betterment of the universe.
In All-New Ghost Rider (2014) #1
Robbie Reyes is a 17-year-old living in Los Angeles. When he dies in a street racing accident, Robbie is possessed by a so-called Spirit of Vengeance. He then rides in his muscle car as the newest Ghost Rider. This reimagining of the character is more sympathetic than previous versions, as Robbie must balance his life as the Ghost Rider with being the caregiver of his wheel-chair bound brother.
In Darth Vader (2015) #1
Set in between the destruction of the first Death Star and the assault on Hoth, Darth Vader is a must-read for any true fans of the Sith Lord. Readers follow him as he proves his worth to his master, and discovers a terrible secret that will shake him to his core. Writer Kieron Gillen proves that Darth Vader may not be “more machine now than man”.