Tragic news or events can send people into a dangerous mental state. Some people cope with these situations differently. Peter just took an emotional jab to the stomach. What is Peter’s way of coping or releasing his built-up emotions…?
Creative Team
Joe Kelly (Writer), Patrick Gleason (Artist), Marcio Menyz (Colorist), VC’s Joe Caramagna (Letterer)
Jay Bowen (Designer), Kaitlyn Lindtvedt (Assistant Editor), Tom Groneman (Associate Editor),
Nick Lowe (Editor), C.B. Cebulski (Editor-in-Chief)
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Coping Skills
Issue thirty-two of The Amazing Spider-Man (ASM) comes after a very heart wrenching issue thirty-one! Aunt May finds out that she in fact has a biological son after years of struggling with infertility and giving birth to a still born. Who actually survived and arrives decades later to introduce himself. Talk about a whirlwind of emotions! To catch up on issue thirty-one, follow the link at the bottom of this page.
This newest issue of ASM continues with another highly emotional plot, only through the scope of Peter Parker. Imagine learning about a cousin that never existed for your entire life, just appearing unexpectedly! Especially after already meeting this individual and sharing your secret superhero identity with… This adds an entirely unique twist to this “family” dynamic.
With this new development in Peter’s life comes a tornado of emotions. All the while he does not know how to cope with them in a “healthy” way. Peter takes to the streets looking for trouble to calm his mental state. Which is part of the story from issue thirty-one, at the Blood Auction. Peter is not looking to inflict pain upon anyone. Instead, he is wanting pain inflicted upon him…
At the end of this issue readers will see an example of bipartisan respect between Spider-Man and Tombstone! I have a newfound appreciation for Tombstone after seeing what he does for Spider-Man. There is one more heart touching moment at the conclusion of this issue. That is between Peter and Raelith. I am not going to spoil what truly happens. I will simply say that it is a unique example of unconditional love. Which is something Peter desperately needs in this juncture of his life…
The Writing
Well, Joe Kelly strikes again! Drafting a plot line that tugs on my heart in various directions. This story hits in a different tone than issue thirty-one. This issue focuses on Peter and his emotional state about the discovery of a cousin that was never supposed to exist. Adding to that how people cope with emotional trauma brings this subject to life that many people struggle with. The dynamic between various characters and Peter is awe-inspiring!
The Artwork
The art within this issue by Patrick Gleason and Marcio Menyz starts off with a gloomy depressing tone, which is fitting for how the story begins. The dark shading and dark colors work perfectly for this part of the story. Once at the Blood Auction readers see bold vibrant colors that focus in on details within each character in the panels. One of the finer points within the art is the focus on facial expressions throughout the story. Beautiful works of art in this issue!
Variant Covers
Final Thoughts
This is another highly emotional issue on three fronts. You have the mental struggle of Peter and his new family dynamic. Spider-Man and Tombstone’s increased respect for one another. Finally, the unconditional love between Peter and Raelith. All these combine to make an exceptional story! Readers will not be disappointed with this issue. Make sure to pick up a copy of The Amazing Spider-Man #32!
Overall Grade: 10/10
Links
Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous ASM Review: The Amazing Spider-Man #31 – The Talk
Travis’ NI Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Travis’ Personal Content: Travis’ Comic Haven
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