Amazing Spider-Man #70 "SPIDER-MAN: WANTED" (March, 1969)

Synopsis

Kingpin breaks out of jail, Spidey scares Jameson into having a heart attack, the protesters get their low-rent student dorm, and Gwen thinks Peter is a coward! What an ish!

Notes

• Kingpin "forgot" that he told the police that Spider-Man was his accomplice? C'mon...

Credits

Fantastically Fabricated by: 

Stan (The Man) Lee, Author!

John (Ring-A-Ding) Romita, Innovator!

Jim (Madman) Mooney, Illustrator!

Sam (Rosy) Rosen, Letterer!

Amazing Spider-Man #69 MISSION: CRUSH THE KINGPIN!" (February, 1969)

Synopsis

The arrested protesters are stewing behind bars and Randy lashes out at his father Joe. Don't let it be said that Stan Lee was ever afraid to tackle tough issues.

It turns out the Kingpin has a wife...he gets really mad if you mention her, so you'd better not. Spider-Man beats the Kingpin up and attempts to return the tablet to the authorities. Unfortunately for our hero, when Tubby was arrested, he told the cops that Spidey was his accomplice. The issue closes with Spider-Man being hounded by the blue-coats and his resolving to become the menace he's always been called. 

Notes

• First mention of Vanessa Fisk

Credits

Stan (The Man) Lee, Script!

John (Ring-A-Ding) Romita, Storyboards!

Jim (Madman) Mooney, Illustration!

Sam (Sleepy) Rosen, Letterer!

Amazing Spider-Man #68 CRISIS ON THE CAMPUS!" (January, 1969)

Synopsis

Anyone remember the story arc from the Fox Spider-Man show in the 90s involving a clay tablet and Silvermane? No? That's okay--'cause here's the original.

Our yarn begins with Kingpin scheming to steal a priceless clay tablet. He doesn't know what it is but it doesn't matter "Men have died for it, then it must be mine!"

Meanwhile....

Trouble is brewing at ol' ESU. The administration is converting a hall into a private dorm for visting alums instead of using it for low-rent housing for needy students. Well, this is the late 60's so that means PROTESTS!

Peter isn't sure where to stand, he doesn't know much about either side, but he ends up ostracizing the students by declining to act without more information.

Kingpin uses the protest as a cover for his theft of the tablet..and the protesters are arrested as accomplices!

Notes

Credits

Script: Stan (The Man) Lee

Storyboards: Johnny (Ring-A-Ding) Romita

Illustration: Jim (Madman) Monney

Lettering: Sammy (Swinger) Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man Annual #5 "THE PARENTS OF PETER PARKER!" (1968)

Synopsis

Well here's an issue that eventually became the subject of much ret-conning. Let's see how it plays out.

Believe it or not, our story opens in Algeria. Spider-Man is ambushed by a bunch of Algerian hoods and one of them manages to wing him? Head-injury means flashback time...

Peter remembers how we opened a trunk of Aunt May's in the attic. He found newspaper clippings reporting his parents death as traitors to America. Naturally, this means he has to go to Algeria to found out the truth for himself. 

Which brings us back to where we started...

After getting the address of  his parents "boss" Spider-Man races there only to find, the RED SKULL?!?!

Spidey beats up a henchman of the Skull's, but not before finding damning evidence against his father: an identification card in the Red Skull's spy organization.

As a broken-hearted Spider-Man prepares to leave Algeria, a man known as "the Finisher" comes after him on the Skull's orders. The Finisher is hit by his own missile intended for our hero and as he dies tells Spider-Man the truth about Richard Parker.

Spider-Man goes back to the Red Skull and acquires the proof that he needed, an ID card for Richard Parker showing him to be a double agent working for the US Government.

Notes

• If Richard and Mary were working for the US Government, then how come they weren't cleared after their deaths by the Government itself? 
• Even if May and Ben decided never to tell Peter about his parents...I found it ludicrously unlikely that no one else did. The Parkers are an obvious parallel to the Rosenbergs and their children were stigmatized throughout their entire lives. Peter's last name wasn't changed, nor did they move him to a different city. There's simply no way that he could've made it to 20 without finding out that his parents were traitors.

Credits

Phantasmagorically produced by: Smilin' Stan Lee and Larrupin' Larry Lieber

Embellished by: Mickey Demeo

Lettered by: Artie Simek

Chaotic Consultant: Jazzzy Johnny Romita

Amazing Spider-Man #67 "TO SQUASH A SPIDER!" (December, 1968)

Synopsis

Spider-Man fights for his now 6-inch life as Mysterio torments and antagonizes him. Fortunately he realizes just in time that....um....it was all just post-hypnotic suggestion. Hooray!

Notes

• Jim Mooney is an awesome inker
• Introduction of Randy Robertson

Credits

Stan Lee and Johnny Romita

Jim (Madman) Mooney

Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #66 "THE MADNESS OF MYSTERIO!" (November, 1968)

Synopsis

Mysterio opens this issue soliloquizing about how he plans to defeat Spider-Man. Sigh...they never learn. 

Gwen makes up with Peter having learned the truth about what happened in the previous issue. Hooray!

Joe Robertson and Captain Stacy begin their get-togethers to discuss Spider-Man. I'm guessing that Stan Lee's father smoked a pipe. Both of these "father figure" characters do.

Norman Osborn has reverted back to the Green Goblin, but he still hasn't regained the memory that Peter Parker is Spider-Man.

When Spidey tracks down Mysterio, he gets zapped by Mysterio's new weapon. Spidey regains his sense in time to discover that he's only 6 inches tall!!

Notes

Credits

Stan (The Man) Lee and Johnny (Ring-A-Ding) Romita

Amazinlgy Abetted by: Dazzlin' Don Heck + Slick Mick Demeo

Lovingly Lettered by: Adorable A. Simek

Special Effects by: I. Fearless Forbush

Amazing Spider-Man #65 "ESCAPE IMPOSSIBLE" (October, 1968)

Synopsis

Well, they don't unmask him. Captain Stacy holds back the crazed mob like the badass he is. Unfortunately, for his troubles, the good Captain is taken hostage by some criminals who want to break out of jail. Spidey foils the plan and George testifies on his behalf much to JJJ's annoyance.

Notes

Credits

Stan Lee & John Romita

Jim Mooney

Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #64 "THE VULTURE'S PREY" (September, 1968)

Synopsis

Essentially nothing happens in this issue. Spidey beats the Vulture even with his wounded arm. Oh sure, along the way Mary-Jane gets a haircut and JJJ and Robbie are threatened, but that's just fluff. The issue closes with Spider-Man passing out and the crowd around him moving in...

Notes

• Captain Stacy finally regains his memory and tells Gwen that Peter didn't try to hurt him

Credits

Stan Lee & John Romita

Donnie Heck

Mickey Demeo

Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #63 "WINGS IN THE NIGHT!" (August, 1968)

Synopsis

I bet most of you Spider-Fans were bummed to find out that Vulture died in ish 48 even though Blackie Drago took over his mantle as "New Vulture." Fret not, turns out Adrian Toomes is alive and well.

Now if you want to make your comeback as the high-flying Vulture what would be your first move? Would you break-0ut from prison the guy who tried to replace you so that you can beat him up? Vulchy would.

Our issue closes with the original Vulture soundly beating the new one, and then turning to face Spider-Man!

Notes

• yes, more of "Norman is gaining back his memory!"
• also more of "I wish Peter would try to explain!" "How can I ever explain to Gwen?"
• Check out what the Vulture thinks about copyright law in the above pic

Credits

Stan (The Man) Lee/John (Ring-A-Ding) Romita

Don (Hero) Heck

Mickey Demeo

Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #62 "MAKE WAY FOR MEDUSA!" (July, 1968)

Synopsis

Spidey is swinging above the city, thinking about how to make up with Gwen--when suddenly Medusa appears! Not the mythological creature but the Inhuman with living hair. She's come to New York to see if mankind is ready to accept the Inhumans living among them. 

Naturally she is immediately confronted by an advertising executive who thinks she'd be a great spokesmodel for hairspray. 

Meanwhile...

Norman Osborn is still struggling with his returning memories about the Green Goblin...

Does anyone else notice how often Marvel uses the idea of a foreign dignitary (Ka-Zar, Namor, Inhumans, etc.) coming to New York and inadvertently causing mayhem due to culture clash?

Well here we go again, Medusa, unsuprisingly, gets bored with the hairspray ads and walks out after trashing the place. The ad exec hails Spider-Man and tricks him into going after Medusa.

Oy.

The ensuing battle is mostly a complete misunderstanding, I sure wish Spidey would use his words before his fists. It really doesn't help though that Medusa is so taken with her status as Queen of the Inhumans that she refuses to discuss anything.

Fear not, once the snafu is cleared up, Medusa goes back the Inhumans and the corrupt ad-man is fired. Justice reigns!

Notes

• JJJ's thoughts in the above pic are just....so linear. We don't think like that!

Credits

Smilin' Stan Lee/Jazzy John Romita

Delineated by: Dashing Don Heck

Inking: Mighty Mickey Demeo

Lettering: Swingin' Sammy Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #61 "WHAT A TANGLED WEB WE WEAVE..!" (June, 1968)

Synopsis

Gwen and Captain Stacy go on the run but are soon apprehended by Kingpin's men. Spider-Man saves the day, and with the help of Norman Osborn shuts down the brainwashing plan permanently.

Notes

• Norman is starting to remember his alter ego, the Green Goblin

Credits

Stan Lee/John Romita

Don Heck

Mickey Demeo

Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #60 "O, BITTER VICTORY!" (May, 1968)

Synopsis

Peter loves Gwen! Yup, this issue is all hearts and flowers because they get married and live happily ever after. The End.

Nah, just kidding.

We've all been there, you're visiting the woman you love and her father who's been brainwashed by a mobster attacks you. I know, I know--it's happened to us all. You raise an arm merely in self-defense and you end up hurting him because of your radioactively enhanced strength. 

Long story short, Gwen is heart-broken and furious at Peter. In an effort to clear things up, Pete follows Captain Stacy hoping he'll find the Kingpin, but instead sees the Captain stealing private police files. Of course, Spidey knows that it's only because George is brainwashed, so in an attempt to help him, Spidey takes photographs and gives them to the Bugle. 

I guess the rationale is that by bringing attention to George, the Kingpin will have to play his hand and then Spider-Man could capture him and thus exonerate George. Sure sucks for Gwen though who has to see "photos by Peter Parker" in the newspaper the next day....CONTINUED NEXT ISH

Notes

Credits

Stan (the man) Lee/Johnny (ring-a-ding) Romita

Dashing Donnie Heck

Mighty Mickey Demeo

Swingin' Sammy Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #59 " THE BRAND OF THE BRAINWASHER!" (April, 1968)

Synopsis

Okay here's the skinny. Peter's memory fully returned, he heads to the hospital to ease Aunt May's concerns. He then settles things with the police and explains that he was kidnapped by Spider-Man but only because Spider-Man had lost his memory and mistook him for an enemy.

Finally, he squares things away with the gang which includes an impassioned embrace with Gwen. Her father shares some of his thoughts on Spider-Man with Peter. He may even have hinted that he knows about Peter's dual life.

Meanwhile...

A mysterious figure has hired MJ at a club called Gloom Room A-Go-Go. Her job is to dance and entertain people then take their photos because "no one ever turns down a chance to get a free photo of himself. It can't miss!"

Brilliant plan, right? Well the flashbulbs contain a "hypnotic quality" that makes the patrons want to return to the club at which point the villain will brainwash them.

Seriously, great plan.

That night at the club, MJ snaps a photo of Captain Stacy sending him right into the clutches of the Brainwasher. The issue ends with Spidey confronting this nefarious villain only to discover that it's the Kingpin!

Notes

• despite the Brainwasher saying that his plan involves tricking the hypnotized patrons into returning to the club for brainwashing, he brainwashes them the first time they visit!
• I realize that I keep putting up pictures of Gwen, and I'm fully aware that I'm editorializing. I'm choosing to highlight the Gwen/Peter aspects of his life. Deal with it, I'll give Mary-Jane her fair share later.

Credits

Stan (The Man) Lee/Jonny (Ring-A-Ding) Romita

Enchantment by Don Heck

Embellishment by Mickey Demeo

Lettering by Artie Simek

Peter's Wardrobe by Forbush Fashions, Inc.

Amazing Spider-Man #58 "TO KILL A SPIDER-MAN!" (March, 1968)

Synopsis

Spider-Man wasn't dead! Okay, you may now return from the edge of your seat. I know that many of you were nervous. Remember he lives for another 500 issues or so, (I don't want any of you nay-sayers pointing out that he dies a few times along the way).

Not only did he survive his encounter with Ka-Zar, but his amnesia is gone! Apparently being knocked unconscious due to lack of oxygen is a great cure for amnesia. 

Meanwhile...JJJ receives a phone call from Dr. Smythe who has a new Spider-Slayer. Naturally Jonah can't pass up this opportunity and he immediately sets the new robot after Spidey.

The Spider-Slayer chases Peter all over the city but when they arrive at Professor Smythe's lab, it gets overloaded by all the "spider-impulses" there. Which was Spidey's plan all along of course.

Notes

• Stan establishes George Stacy's interest and curiosity for Spider-Man
• Ned Leeds and Betty STILL haven't gotten married--yeesh, what the heck is taking them so long?
• re: the pic above--you'd think Spidey wouldn't freak out about that

Credits

Spectacular Script - Smilin' Stan Lee

Brilliant Breakdown - Jazzy Johnny Romita

Fabulous Finalizing - Dashin' Donny Heck

Exotic Embellishment - Mighty Mickey Demeo

Luscious Lettering - Swingin' Sammy Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #57 "THE COMING OF KA-ZAR!" (February, 1968)

Synopsis

Spider-Man still has no memory of who he is. While his friends and family are worried sick, Harry finds a spider-tracer in the apartment. This leads him, and soon the entire city, to believe that Spider-Man kidnapped Peter Parker!

Meanwhile, Ka-Zar is in town on business and JJJ convinces him to apprehend our memory-addled hero. Their epic battles ends with a limp Spider-Man in the arms of Ka-Zar....STAY TUNED.

Notes

• Captain Stacy's name is misspelled "Stacey"
• See! Even with amnesia Peter loves Gwen

Credits

Smilin' Stan Lee/Jazzy John Romita

Dashin' Don Heck - Additional Penciller

Mickey Demeo - Embellisher

Sam Rosen - Letterer

Amazing Spider-Man #56 "DISASTER!" (January, 1968)

Synopsis

1968! An important year in American History. Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. are killed, massive protests break out on college campuses about Vietnam, and Nixon is elected.

Will there be as much significance in the Spider-Verse? Let's find out!

Spider-Man, besotted with amnesia has been duped by Dr. Octopus into believing that they're partners. Somehow though (probably due to his spider-sense) Spidey knows that everything isn't what it seems.

Meanwhile, the gang is missing Peter. Aunt May of course, is upset both that Peter is missing and that everyone is telling lies about poor misunderstood Dr. Octopus.

Colonel Jameson is determined to get back the nullifier and is aided by Police Captain George Stacy. Yes, that's right: Stacy. Gwen's father! I'm sure all of you've been wondering where the heck her family was. Well her surprisingly old father is a widower, and he's raised gorgeous Gwendolyne all by his lonesome.

When the army eventually shows up, Ock is defeated by the very weapon he stole. Spider-Man refuses to fight the army, now convinced that he's not a criminal but the issue ends with him still being unsure of who he actually is!

Notes

• First appearance of George Stacy

Credits

Smilin' Stan Lee/Jazzy John Romita

Inked by: Mickey Demeo

Lettering by: Sam Rosen 

Ignored by: Those of Little Faith

Amazing Spider-Man #55 "DOC OCK WINS!" (December, 1967)

Synopsis

Remember the Nullifier that Ock tried to steal way back in ish 53? Well he finally gets it despite the best efforts of Colonel Jameson. 

He uses it on Spider-Man which afflicts him with a well known plot-device....AMNESIA!!

Notes

• the juxtaposition between "party-girl" MJ and more thoughtful Gwen continues
• Harry is again annoyed at his missing roomate
• that cover? awesome.

Credits

Stan (the man) Lee/John (ring-a-ding) Romita

Mickey Demeo - Inking

Sam Rosen - Lettering

Amazing Spider-Man Annual #4 "THE WEB AND THE FLAME! " (1967)

Synopsis

Another year, another annual. Am I the only who thinks these are stupid, hokey, and just a way to sell a comic for 25 cents? Probably not, the stories aren't better--just more ridiculous in their story-telling. Human Torch and Spidey get tricked into fighting each other by the Wizard and Mysterio. It'd be mildly interesting if we hadn't already seen the idea of a movie set being a trap back in ish 14. 

Notes

• this issue had a "surprise penciller." We find out at the end that it was Larry Lieber, although Stan neglects to mention that Larry is his younger brother. 
• The continuity of when this issue is supposed to take place isn't totally clear. Aunt May is on some sort of vacation, but in ish 55, she was being treated by Dr. Bromwell. Maybe she just dashed off for a quick pick-me-up. Or maybe Stan just doesn't read his own comics?

Credits

Stan Lee - Writer

Mickey Demeo - Inker

Larry Lieber - Penciller

Jerry Feldman - Letterer

Amazing Spider-Man #54 "THE TENTACLES AND THE TRAP!" (November, 1967)

Synopsis

Okay Faithful Followers! Reach back into your brains all the way to Annual #1. Remember when Doc Ock kidnapped Aunt May and Betty Brant? Did you think that ol' Stan was going to let a good plot like that go to waste? Heck no!

Doctor Octopus is boarding with Aunt May and Anna Watson, and you know that can only mean one thing. Trouble! With eight capital T's.

Aunt May is just so hilariously naïve. She completely trusts this man despite the fact that the newspapers, the radio, and the television have all talked about his being a nefarious criminal. She still treats Peter like a child, and lives with the delusion that he's a 'frail and fragile boy.'

Ridiculous.

Anyway, Peter desperately tries to find a way to confront Ock without terrifying actually frail and fragile Aunt May. Ultimately, he fails. She has another heart attack type of thing and faints when she sees Spidey and Ock tussling. The good Doctor escapes leaving Peter to deal with his Aunt.

Notes

• If you think that over time Aunt May would "get it" that Dr. Octopus is not a nice person, you're wrong. She won't find out for another 35 years or so (real time, not Marvel Time)
• I love John Romita but I can still admit when he goofs. Check out Pete's pupils in the above pic when he sees who's living with Aunt May.

Credits

Stan Lee, John Romita, Mickey Demeo, Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #53 "ENTER DR. OCTOPUS!" (October, 1967)

Synopsis

Harry is peeved at Peter because he's never around. Harry doesn't like feeling like a glorified answering machine. To make matters worse, Pete takes Gwen to a "Science Expo" blowing off Harry and Flash who recently returned from Vietnam. 

Professor Warren goes with the budding couple and he displays some delightfully creepy affection for Gwen. I doubt that Stan intended at this point for Prof. Warren to end up as horribly creepy as he does, but the groundwork certainly was laid here.

At the Expo, wouldn't you just know that Dr. Octopus would show up and start a big ol' fight. Spidey beats him soundly and Ock decides to lay low for a while.

Aunt May and Anna decide to take in a boarder to make some extra cash...guess who moves in?

Notes

Credits

Stan Lee, John Romita, Mickey Demeo, Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #52 "TO DIE A HERO!" (September, 1967)

Synopsis

In classic Super-Villain fashion, the Kingpin does not simply shoot JJJ and Spider-Man. He locks them in a room with a rising water level, simply leaving them to die. Do you think they escape? You bet your bippy they do. 

Meanwhile Flash returns from Vietnam earlier than everyone expected. 

Back at the his penthouse, the Kingpin manages to escape before Spider-Man can defeat him. While JJJ is escaping, a henchman tries to gun him down and Frederick Foswell takes the bullet. Foswell is remembered as a hero by all. 

Notes

Credits

Stan Lee, John Romita, Mickey Demeo, Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #51 "IN THE CLUTCHES OF THE KINGPIN!" (August, 1967)

Synopsis

Spidey is back in full swing since last ish. First item on his agenda: take out the newly organized mob under the reign of the Kingpin!

Meanwhile, Mary-Jane and Gwen both have the hots for Peter. Everyone seems to know it except for poor Harry, who thinks Gwen is digging him. Seeds are being planted!

Spider-Man, along with JJJ, is captured by the Kingpin in a thrilling cliffhanger.

Notes

• First appearance of Joseph "Robbie" Robertson
• In a rare display of integrity, Jonah refuses to alter the content of his paper to suit the Kingpin's needs

Credits

Stan Lee, John Romita, Mickey Demeo, Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #50 "SPIDER-MAN NO MORE!" (July, 1967)

Synopsis

Here we are folks at another landmark issue. What was meant to be mere filler for a soon-to-be-canceled comic, "Amazing Fantasy" has somehow stretched into a 50 issue run.  Well I'll tell you how! It's because of issues like this. 

Peter Parker is such a relatable character. He's faced with problems, in this issue:

• Aunt May has another attack
• he is spurned by the public he protects
• he has no time for a job doing what he loves
• his grades are slipping
• he doesn't have time to spend with Gwen or MJ

That he hasn't quit before shows his perseverance, and is a testament to his strength. Eventually though, enough is enough and he quits. Parts of the 2nd Spider-Man movie are an homage to this issue. 

It is when Peter is driving home one night, and hears a night watchman attacked that he bursts back into action. He saves the watchman's life without a costume, taking out two burglars. Peter realizes with a shock that the man reminds him of Uncle Ben, and Romita gets a chance to re-draw the origin. Peter renews his vows to Superherodom.

Notes

• Kingpin's first appearance
• Gwen begins to show strong interest in Peter

Credits

Stan (the man) Lee and John (ring-a-ding) Romita invite you to join the capricious company of

Mickey Dimeo: Inker

Sam Rosen: Letterer

Amazing Spider-Man #49 "FROM THE DEPTHS OF DEFEAT!" (June, 1967)

Synopsis

When we last left our intrepid hero, he was unconscious in the snow and the new Vulture was feeling cocksure. It turns out the cold revived Spidey and he limps home to lick his wounds. Meanwhile Kraven is upset that the Vulture is getting all the attention as a menace. (Remember he's still on the lam from ish # 47?)

Kraven plans to bring down the Vulture but just when he finds him, Spider-Man shows up to defeat them both. Hooray!

Notes

Credits

A Stan Lee and John Romita Action Epic

Lettered by: Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #48 "THE WINGS OF THE VULTURE!" (May, 1967)

Synopsis

The Vulture is dying in prison, but before he breathes his last, he gives the secret of his flying power to fellow inmate Blackie Drago. Wouldn't you know that Spider-Man is completely under the weather with a fever and cold? Nonetheless, he heads out to tackle this new Vulture and the issue ends in a cliffhanger with our hero unconscious and left for dead.

Notes

Credits

An Awesome Aggegation of Airborne Thrills by: Smilin' Stan Lee and Jazzy Johnny Romita

Learnedly Lettered by: Whammy Sammy Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #47 "IN THE HANDS OF THE HUNTER!" (April, 1967)

Synopsis

This ish opens with with a flashback to a scene from Kraven's last appearance (#39) where it turns out the the Green Goblin had hired him to kill Spider-Man. Why Kraven needed any additional incentive isn't clear, but they've established that he had it.

Of course unbeknownst to Kraven, the Green Goblin doesn't exist anymore. So he goes to visit the man he met with earlier as a liason for the Goblin: Norman Osborn!

Meanwhile, Flash Thompson is enjoying a good-bye party since he leaves the next day to fight in Vietnam. Kraven shows up and kidnaps Harry Osborn as ransom. Peter has to duck away for Spidey to make the scene. Spider-Man beats Kraven in spite of his new "magnetizing ray." Hooray!

Notes

Credits

A Swingin', Super-Special Spidey Saga, by: Stan Lee and John Romita

Abetted and Lettered by: Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #46 "THE SINISTER SHOCKER!" (March, 1967)

Synopsis

A hilariously colorful villain shows up, destined to become a member of the inconsequential gallery. His name is Herman Shultz, and he vibrates. It may not sound that scary, but that's mostly because it isn't. He calls himself the Shocker and for his sake I hope that people weren't performing that particular sexual maneuver in 1967. Spider-Man puts the kibosh on his bank-robbing plans by webbing his thumbs up. The Shocker needs his thumbs to activate the triggering mechanism, so that ends his "spree."

Notes

• Peter moves in with Harry
• Aunt May moves in with Anna Watson

Credits

A Stan Lee & John Romita Spideriffic Spectacular

Lettered by: Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #45 "SPIDEY SMASHES OUT!" (February, 1967)

Synopsis

Spider-Man has to find and defeat the Lizard before his master plan to dominate the whole world with reptiles is put into action! He does. It's actually kind of clever, he tricks the Lizard into following him into the refrigerator car of a train. Poor cold-blooded Lizzy never had a chance.

In the B story, Peter is starting to realize how flighty and shallow Mary-Jane can be.

Notes

Credits

A Stan (the man) Lee---John (ring-a-ding) Romita Adventure in Agonizing Action

Lettering: Sam Rosen

Web-Untangling: Irv Forbush

Amazing Spider-Man #44 "WHERE CRAWLS THE LIZARD!" (January, 1967)

Synopsis

Peter is dropping off Aunt May at the train station for a nice relaxing trip to Florida and thinks that he sees Curt Conners. Dr. Conners was there but ran away when he felt himself changing into the Lizard!

Spider-Man confronts Lizzy and just when things look like they're going to be ok, the Lizard cuts through Spidey's web and he plummets to the street below. 

How will Spider-Man manage to defeat the Lizard with a wing in a sling? Tune in next issue to find out!

Notes

Credits

Story: Smilin' Stan Lee

Illustration: Jazzy John Romita

Lettering: Swingin' Sam Rosen

Luggage: Honest Irving Forbush

Amazing Spider-Man Annual #3 "...TO BECOME AN AVENGER! " (1966)

Synopsis

The Mighty Avengers want Spider-Man to join their swinging ranks. His test is a "simple" one: find the Hulk and bring him back to the Avengers.

While fighting Hulk though, Spidey discovers the terrible fate of Dr. Bruce Banner/Hulk. He can't bring himself to turn Hulk over to the Avengers, thinking that they plan to imprison him. 

Spider-Man doesn't join the Avengers, which ends up being good anyway.

Notes

• The Wasp mentions several times that she doesn't want to allow Spidey into the Avengers due to her "natural wasp aversion to spiders." Um....Janet honey? You're not a wasp, your powers don't derive from wasps, and shut-up.

Credits

Script by: Smilin' Stan Lee

Layouts by: Jazzy Johnny Romita

Pencilin' by: Dashin' Donnie Heck

Inkin' by: Mirthful Mickey Demeo

Letterin' by: Adorable Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #43 "RHINO ON THE RAMPAGE!" (December, 1966)

Synopsis

Betty Brant and Ned Leeds are engaged! Much more importantly though is that Flash receives his draft notice. Looks like ol' Flasher is off to Vietnam. Oh yeah, and the Rhino returns, but Spider-Man beats the crap out of him with the help of a special webbing from Doc. Conners.

Notes

Credits

Writer: Stan (the man) Lee

Artist: John (ring-a-ding) Romita

Letterer: Artie (stout-hearted) Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #42 "THE BIRTH OF A SUPERHERO!" (November, 1966)

Synopsis

John Jameson is finally affected by the space spores, he goes kinda crazy and tussles with Spidey. Who cares? Nobody. Why? Because this is it! This is the issue. Mary-Jane Watson waltzes out from behind the panels and delivers her now immortal line. Nothing in the Spider-Verse will ever be the same. 'Nuff said.

Notes

• Mary-Jane's first appearance
• Gwen starts wearing her trademark head band

Credits

Writer: Smilin' Stan Lee

Artist: Jazzy Johnny Romita

Letterer: Slammin' Sammy Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #41 "THE HORNS OF THE RHINO!" (October, 1966)

Synopsis

The Rhino is coming towards New York! Y'see, JJJ's son, John (remember him from waaaaay back in Spidey #1?) has returned from space and he's got some "space spores" on him. The Rhino plans to sell him to nefarious countries behind the Iron Curtain.

Fortunately Spidey stops him and they have a great battle filled with sound effects. Peter bumps into Betty Brant, and they realize they no longer have romantic feelings for each other. Ned Leeds shows up and he and Betty pick right back up again.

I'd like to take a moment here to talk about John Romita (naturally at this point, he wasn't John Romita Sr., because his son wasn't doing anything in comics yet). Look, Ditko created Spidey--he came up with the look which has lasted until this very day. It's a great look, and I gave him all the credit there is for coming up with it, and drawing the first all-important issues. He also designed and drew the villains who will be around for our web-slinger's career. I come here not to knock Steve Ditko, plenty of praise goes his way.

That being said--he wasn't great with the ordinary people. Spider-Man wouldn't be the great comic it is if it was just fight after fight. It's all about the supporting cast. Romita turned Gwen Stacy from an arched-eyebrow, weird hair-corner-thingie, forgettable character, into a vivacious, tangible, person. Betty Brant transformed from a Ditko Template into an individual woman with a life all her own. Did anyone else ever notice that Liz Allan and Betty Brant had the exact same face when drawn by Ditko?

JJJ's gruffness became written across his face, in the lines, in the hair, and in his "smile." Characters' eyes shone with pain, lit up with joy and widened in surprise. Villains moved from cartoonishly evil, to realistically evil.

Maybe I'm just having a love affair with John Romita, but DAMNIT, he's so good! His Peter Parker is definitely my favorite, and obviously his Mary-Jane is my favorite. I'm forever happy that Marvel held off on showing her to us before Romita took over.

Notes

• First appearance of the Rhino.

Credits

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: John Romita

Inker: M. Demeo

Letterer: Art Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #40 "SPIDEY SAVES THE DAY!" (September, 1966)

Synopsis

The Green Goblin has Peter unmasked and captured. Turns out, he was Norman Osborn all this time. It also turns out that he's completely insane. He tells Peter the story of how he became the Green Goblin. It's the familiar tale of a distant father, too wrapped up in his work to spend time with his son. He gave Harry everything he could, financially that is. The one thing he didn't give Harry was the only thing Harry really wanted: a dad.

Okay, put away the tissues. Stan & co then piss away the rest of the issue in a sort of "flashback episode" to catch up all the potentially new readers. 

The end is a real doozy though, GG gets an "electro-chemical" shock which causes him to completely lose his memory of the Green Goblin identity. Now he's just plain normal Norman Osborn. I'm sure that this will be permanent, and the Goblin will never threaten anyone again.

Notes

Credits

Writer: Stan Lee

Penciler: John Romita

Inker: Mickey Demeo

Letterer: Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #39 "HOW GREEN WAS MY GOBLIN!" (August, 1966)

Synopsis

The Green Goblin hires a bunch of thugs to hit Spidey with some gas which will dull his Spider-Senses! This enables the Goblin to follow Spider-Man home and learn his secret identity. 

This is pivotal. The Green Goblin at this point, hasn't really differentiated himself as an arch-nemesis any more than any of the other villains. He's never kidnapped Aunt May, or Betty Brant like Dr. Octopus or the Sinister Six (led by Ock) have. 

He is however, the first villain to learn that Spider-Man and Peter Parker are one and the same. He won't be the last to learn that, but this is the beginning for the Goblin; this is the first step down a path that separates him from simply being a member of the rogues gallery, to being the legendary arch-rival that he will eventually become. 

The Green Goblin could've been another "corny costumed villain." His name is certainly dumb, he's got gimmicky weapons, and he doesn't particularly have any incredible powers. The fact that he was the first to attack Peter and not Spider-Man is significant. Obviously issue #121 (no spoilers here!) is the biggest catalyst for the epic, decade-spanning fight between our hero and villain, but even as early as issue 39--the Goblin knows that to destroy Spider-Man, he must attack every part of his life.

Another interesting thing to note is that instead of having the Goblin be some anonymous figure that we've never met, he's Harry Osborn's father! Do we really care about Max Dillon, Sergei Kravinoff, Adrian Toomes, Flint Marko (William Baker), Dmitri Smerdyakov, Mark Raxton, Herman Shultz, Mac Gargan, Otto Octavius or Aleksei Systevich?

By contrast, Norman Obsorn is an actual character in the Marvel Universe. He interacts with other characters outside of the realm of fighting with Spider-Man. He attends an elite club with JJJ, and is the father of one of Peter's classmates (and future best friend). All of this is part of what will eventually make him into the most feared name in Spiderdom.

Anyway, I'll step off my soapbox for now--Excelsior!

Notes

• The title seems like a question, but it has an exclamation point instead
• John Romita's first issue drawing Spider-Man--Ditko may have created the look, but Romita perfected it

Credits

Script by: Smilin' Stan Lee

Art by: Jazzy Johnny Romita

Inks by: Mighty Mickey Demeo

Lettering by: Adorable Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #38 "JUST A GUY NAMED JOE!" (July, 1966)

Synopsis

If a man gets bathed in chemicals and then electrocuted a bit, would you assume he would develop super-human strength? Yer darn right he would! Joe Smith is a pretty unassuming nobody, until one day the aforementioned happens on a movie set. Boom, instant one-issue-villain. 

Spider-Man beats him, and the guy goes back to normal, gets a movie contract, and lives happily ever after. Y'know even I'm getting tired of this completely uninteresting A-stories, but fortunately the B-stories are awesome.

Norman Osborn hires every goon in the city to kill Spider-Man, offering a reward of $20,000. Harry and Flash are still picking on Peter, but Gwen sure seems to be whistling a different tune. Meanwhile, at the Bugle, Ned Leeds is back from California but he doesn't know where Betty is either!

Stay tuned frantic ones!

Notes

• there were several other panels that I loved and wanted to show you, here I present a few choice lines from a protest on ESU's campus

Peter: Another student protest! What are they after this time?

Some Kid: Didn't you hear? They're protesting tonight's meeting!

Peter: It figgers!

Another Kid: Hey, Parker! Not so fast! We can use another man to carry a sign! C'mon, join in the protest march!

Peter: Not me! I haven't got time! Besides, I've nothing to protest about!

Third Kid: Nothing to protest about?? What are you -- some kinda religious fanatic, or somethin'?

Another Kid: What 'smatter with? Aren't you interested in saving the world?? Anyway, it's an excuse to cut classes!

Third Kid: --and maybe you'll get your picture in Newsweek!

Fourth Kid: C'mon, Parker--If you join our protest meeting, we'll join one of yours some time!

Fifth Kid: Sure! And, if you've nothing to protest, Don't worry about it! That won't stop us!

Peter:  Forget it!

Sixth Kid: Aww -- your cousin likes Lawrence Welk!

Seventh Kid: Gowan back to Squaresville you rosy-cheeked reactionary!

Credits

Written & Edited by: Stan Lee

Plotted & Drawn by: Steve Ditko

Lettered, Unfettered by: Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #37 "ONCE UPON A TIME, THERE WAS A ROBOT...!" (June, 1966)

Synopsis

Robot. When I think of a robot, my mind usually goes to R2-D2 or Robby the Robot. I don't often think of a green blob with tentacles. That's probably because I'm not Mendel Stromm!

Professor Stromm is released from jail and immediately sets on a plan for revenge. His ex-partner cheated him out of his share of profits, and planted false evidence to get him landed in prison. Normon Osborn shall suffer for what he did! Stromm builds some crazy robots and looses them upon Osborn. Spider-Man manages to defeat both robots, but Stromm is killed by  a mysterious sniper before he divulges a secret. 

We know that Norman was the sniper, but Spidey doesn't. We also don't know how he managed to do it! It's all very plot-developing!

Notes

• Norman Osborn is finally mentioned by name
• First appearance of Professor Stromm (he isn't actually given a first name yet)
• The relationship between Norman and Harry begins to develop
• Okay, seriously--how are we supposed to pronounce these titles that have "...!" at the end of them? Try it. 

Credits

Edited & Written by: Stan Lee

Plotted & Drawn by: Steve Ditko

Lettered & Cherished by: Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #36 "WHEN FALLS THE METEOR" (May, 1966)

Synopsis

Here comes the candidate for "Worst Named Villain of 1966." The Looter. Guess what he does? You win, he loots. Norton G. Fester was an ordinary, albeit kooky scientist who finds a meteor and gets exposed to strange meteorite gasses. He gains incredible strength and becomes The Looter!

Spider-Man beats him up for having a stupid looking costume/name. Meanwhile at ESU, Gwen Stacy is ever more annoyed with Peter because he ran away from danger, she didn't realize he was just going to change into Spidey!

Notes

Credits

Script & Editing by: Stan Lee

Plot & Artwork by: Steve Ditko

Lettering 'n Stuff by: Art Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #35 "THE MOLTEN MAN REGRETS...!" (Apr, 1966)

Synopsis

The Molten Man returns! Honestly, the title of the issue has him regretting something. Not once in the whole comic does he seem regretful, remorseful, or even introspective enough to regret anything.

That being said, he's back. Remember the "costume" incident last time? Well now he's wearing what appears to be underwear with some sort of emblem in the center of his waist. It's unclear whether he just painted the underwear to match his "molten" skin or whether he was wearing them when he got covered in that stuff in the first place. Ditko also gives him a "boot line" on his calf, so this also raises questions about his footwear. He was definitely barefoot in his first appearance.

Spider-Man beats him, and spends more time worrying and wondering about Betty's disappearance. Ned Leeds has left too, so he assumes that she's run off and forgotten about him.

Notes

Credits

Script & Editing by: Stan Lee

Plot & Artwork by: Steve Ditko

Lettering & Loitering by: Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #34 "The THRILL of THE HUNT!" (March, 1966)

Synopsis

Kraven must know a really good lawyer because he's managed to get back into the US. Alternatively maybe he just disguises himself as something other than an incredibly large and hairy Russian man. 

Okay, here's the scene. Aunt May is on the mend which gives Peter a chance to concentrate at school. Unbeknownst to him, the entire freshman class at ESU thinks he's a snob. None of them know that he was just wrapped up in his Aunt's illness. 

Oh yeah, and Kraven impersonates Spider-Man to ruin his (already ruined) good name. Spidey fights him and wins. Hooray! But where has Betty vanished too?!

Notes

Credits

Scripted and Edited by: Stan lee

Plotted and Illustrated by: Steve Ditko

Lettered and Relished by: Sam Rosen

Amazing Spider-Man #33 "THE FINAL CHAPTER!" (February, 1966)

Synopsis

This is it. The epic story arc comes to an end. Spider-Man triumphs, we all learn a lesson about perseverance, and about what it means to be a hero. I could go on, but suffice it to say that this issue is a Must-Read. For those of you who were worried though, Aunt May ends up okay.

Notes

• Enjoy this issue.

Credits

Script and Editing by: Stan Lee

Plot and Illustration by: Steve Ditko

Bordering and Lettering by: Artie Simek

Amazing Spider-Man #32 "MAN ON A RAMPAGE!" (January, 1966)

Synopsis

Continuing from last issue, Aunt May is deathly ill. She's absorbed a radioactive particle into her bloodstream and Peter blames himself. How was he to know back in ish #10 that the blood transfusion he gave her would end up hurting her? 

There's little joking, and few quips in this issue. Spider-Man enlists the aid of Dr. Curt Conners to cure Aunt May. He recommends a serum called ISO-36. Unfortunately the shipment is snatched by the Master Planner who is revealed to be Dr. Octopus. Spider-Man races to get back the ISO-36 but ends up trapped under tons of steel. The issue closes with him thinking he's been defeated and Aunt May slowly fading...

DON'T MISS NEXT ISSUE!! 

Notes

Credits

Script & Editing by: Stan Lee

Plot & Illustration by: Steve Ditko

Lettering & Kibitzing by: Artie Simek