What could be cuter than a baby-like symbiote going around being a prankster to Marvel Heroes? This is a must read with your child if you’re wanting to get them into comic books!
Creative Team
Symbie #1-6
Jacob Chabot (Writer/Artist), Rachelle Rosenberg (Colorist), VC’s Joe Sabino (Letterer)
Kaitlyn Lindtvedt (Assistant Editor), Nick Lowe (Editor)
Marvel Mutts #18
Mackenzie Cadenhead (Writer), Enid Balam (Artist), Andrew Dalhouse (Colorist), VC’s Joe Sabino (Letterer)
Mikey J. Basso (Assistant Editor), Mark Paniccia (Editor)
Amazing Spider-Man #11, #13, #22, #28
Joe Kelly (Writer),
Pepe Larraz / Nick Bradshaw / Nathan Stockman / Cory Smith / Oren Junior (Artists/Inkers),
Marte Gracia / Rachelle Rosenberg / Erick Arciniega (Colorists), VC’s Joe Caramagna (Letterer)
Kaitlyn Lindtvedt (Assistant Editor), Tom Groneman (Associate Editor), Nick Lowe (Editor)
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Prankster
It’s Symbie number one is a very entertaining collection of short stories and appearances from Symbie, a baby-like symbiote. This issue contains seven short stories and a collection of Symbie’s appearances in The Amazing Spider-Man by Joe Kelly. This collection of stories contains large amounts of humor, thanks to Symbie being a prankster throughout the pages. Which makes this a good introduction to comic books for young children!
The first six short stories within this issue follow Symbie as he terrorizes various Marvel heroes. The way this little prankster goes around planning his next move to provide laughter to the readers is absolutely adorable. Some of the heroes Symbie encounters are; The Thing, Thor, Scarlet Witch and Spider-Man. The dialogue between Spider-Man and Symbie is hilarious to read. It reminds me of my younger days when my parents would tell me something important, and I wouldn’t listen.
The seventh short story within this issue is another cute one, but it also carries a heartfelt message to it as well. Within this story readers see Symbie trying to fit in with a grouping of dogs at what seems to be a dog park. But in its attempt to fit in and play with the other dogs, Symbie lunges for a toy but misses and ends up hurting itself. What the group of dogs do after that is so heartwarming! Giving this story a message that we are all different, but we shouldn’t be treated differently.
The final collection at the end of this issue are special appearances of Symbie within the current run of The Amazing Spider-Man (ASM). Symbie makes his way into ASM by being part of a team of misfits. Working under the direction of Rocket Raccoon. It is within these appearances that readers get to see somewhat of a more serious side to Symbie. Especially within some of the battle panels. But don’t let that fool you, because there are plenty of panels within the ASM collection of Symbie still being a prankster!
The Writing
The writing for Symbie the character within this issue is fun, entertaining and somewhat educational. Bringing this character into a similar category as Jeff the Land Shark, but with words. The dialogue and narration are very simple which makes this an awesome book to get children introduced to comic books. Phenomenal work from all of the writers in keeping with this funny yet educational theme of Symbie.
The Artwork
The art team for these stories did a stunning job at shifting the tone of hard lines and dense coloration to a more cartoony feel to appeal to a younger audience. The coloration is bright and brings a joyful feeling to the art. The pencil work is solid but uses more curved aspects rather than the sharp lines seen in modern comic books today. A younger audience of readers will absolutely enjoy the art that occupies this issue. Outstanding work from every artist and colorist!
Variant Covers
Final Thoughts
This collection of Symbie stories is a beautiful addition to Marvel’s collection of comic books geared towards a younger demographic. Great educational lessons that are given an entertaining display. Absolutely recommend this issue for younger children wanting to get introduced into comic books. Allowing them to see star characters in a different light while dealing with a baby-symbiote. If you have a young child who wants to get into comics and are in that grey area of toddler picture books and comics, this is where you should start!
Overall Grade: 10/10
Links
Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous ASM Review: The Amazing Spider-Man #32 – Coping Skills
Travis’ NI Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Travis’ Personal Content: Travis’ Comic Haven
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