Ultimate Comics Spider-Man, Vol. 1

Bendis, B. M., Pichelli, S. (2012). Ultimate Comics Spider-Man, Vol. 1. New York: Marvel Publishing Inc. ISBN 0785157131

Plot Summary 

After the death of Peter Parker, also known as Spider-Man, there was a void left that one person knew they could fill.  Miles Morales is a half-black half-Latino high school student who comes from a poor family that is struggling to get by.  Like Parker, he was bitten by a spider that gave him similar powers, but also others, such as invisibility.  Taking Peter Parker as his template, Miles realizes that he must use his new powers to fight injustice and decides to don the Spider-Man costume to memorialize his idol. 

Critical Evaluation 

Like what frequently happens in comics, this is an iterative telling of a familiar story.  What is important is that Marvel Comics is clearly making an effort to be more diverse, something mainstream comics frequently suffers with.  By having their veteran writer, Brian Michael Bendis, continue to pen this story, what could be seen as a shallow ploy is actually a worthwhile read.  Morales is aware that taking over Spider-Man's mantle is serious and that he does not want to tarnish that image.  This mirrors the real world situation that Bendis is aware of; by writing Morales in this way, he is acknowledging readers potential trepidation and assuring them he is taking this work seriously.  This is true, as Ultimate Comics Spider-Man is as fresh and readable as the book has ever been.

Reader's Annotation 

With Spider-man dead, Miles Morales must decide whether, for himself, with the same great comes the same responsibility. 

Author Information 

Brian Michael Bendis was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1967.  At the early age of 13 he decided that he wanted to become a comic book creator.  He frequently drew and wrote stories for his favorite characters and from the ages of 20 to 25 he sent many submissions in to publishers.  Deciding that this would not be a way to break into comics, Bendis began creating and publishing his own comics.

After several creator owned endeavors with other budding comics artists, Bendis began a long running relationship with Marvel comics.  In 2000, he helped launch their "Ultimate" line, a rebranding that reintroduced characters to a new audience.  Since then, he has written Ultimate Spider-Man and several other key series for Marvel.

Genre 

Fiction, superhero, graphic novel

Curriculum Ties 

Reading and Language Arts

Booktalking Ideas 

Speak as Miles realizing he has powers similar to the original Spider-man, going through the internal monologue discussing the tough decision to take on the mantle and responsibilities Peter Parker once had. 

Reading Level/Interest Age 

This graphic novel is rated T+ by Marvel, indicating its appropriateness for older teens, who are the target audience and interest group.

Challenge Issues 

Violence and language are the only issues.

If challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly.  Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone.  As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.

Reason Selected

I am a casual fan of weekly comics, and this one is refreshingly unique and written by one of the best writers currently working. Teens new or unfamiliar with comics will find this as an excellent starting point as well. 

References 

Brian Michael Bendis. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved April 12, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Michael_Bendis