This issue picks up with Spider-Man reappearing on the scene after his Aunt May’s recovery, covering both how that affects J. Jonah Jameson and his recent “happy mood” and the endeavors of Sandman and the enforcers who recently joined forces.

To add some drama and stakes to the issue, early on, Sandman and the Enforcers easily capture an excused Human Torch who is returning from his adventures in Strange Tales #127.

Originality & Continuity

This story ties in with everything that was opened up and left hanging for our hero from the prior couple of issues, at least as it relates to Spider-Man being “washed-up.” Bringing him back into action, we see him not only face off against a team-up between the Sandman and the Enforcers but also tackle a gang of regular thieves who Robbed the midtown Bank.

We also get to follow the action as J. Jonah Jameson learns of Spider-Man’s return and watch his happy smiling mood. Melt off his face and witness his mood return to the status Que.

Then later in the issue, we witness Flash return to the peak of popularity as his hero is redeemed, even if he still does hate Spider-Man’s alter ego, Peter Parker.

By including the Human Torch, we even get to close the gap created between Spider-Man his closest hero “Friend/Rival”.

Characters & Development

While mostly moving things back to the Status Que, one story arc remains in flux: Peter Parker’s love life. Betty Brant is now seeing another boy named Ned, who she started seeing last issue, but it continues this one even if Betty does wish it made Peter act jealous. Then while we don’t see any real movement between Liz and Peter (although there are hints that she may still be interested as she calls him Petey), her and Flash are still on the outs.

Story

All this combined makes it a worthwhile story to read, and it is an entertaining and engaging journey in its self. Further, even when the action seems to have ended, it lays the groundwork for what is yet to come. Its biggest weakness is relying on fatigue, both in capturing the Human Torch and the police capturing the sandman. But that point is one that I can live with, this month.

Artwork

Steve Ditko is on his game with his wallcrawer action in this issue. The flow of the dynamic action sequences is down right stunning as you can see from the including fight at the opening of the issue below

But it’s not just the combat, he cheerful Mr. Jameson to the upset included above is another sequence of just how powerful the art is in telling this story.