The art of Terry and Rachel Dodson isn't nearly as effective when it comes to the more unsettling elements of the story, as the barely contained anger that Peter feels toward Aunt May's kidnapper isn't nearly as effective as one would've hoped to see, and the sinister quality of the kidnapper as he makes it clear that Aunt May's life is entirely dependant on Peter being on his best behaviour fell a bit flat. However, the art does a very impressive job on the other sections of the issue, from a fantastic look at New York from street level on the credit page, to the last page sequence where we see our kidnapper discovers he's not alone in his secret headquarters. The art also does a pretty effective job on the opening sequence as Uncle Ben shares a moment with an upset Peter, and I also rather enjoyed the attention the detail when it comes to making Peter's bedroom look like one belonging to a science geek. Read Full Review

The dark and the tragic have a long history in comic books, and a call to shed weight is not a call for triviality. Thoughtful lightness can make frivolity seem dull and heavy, writes Italo Calvino. Marvel Knights Spider-Man #9 doesnt fail because of its seriousness, or grittiness, but because it simply never makes it off the ground. Read Full Review

With both this and his work on Wolverine disappointing, I dont have high hopes for his upcoming other Marvel U. work (be it Hulk, Thor or whatever). He seems to work better with his own inspired books rather than this work-for-hire, well, hack work. Nothing in this book will be regarded as being one of the classic Spidey stories in years to come. Its an ephemeral entity; here today to be forgotten tomorrow. With so many other, better, books on the stands, spend your money elsewhere. Read Full Review