The Astonishing Spider-Man was a comic book series published fortnightly in the United Kingdom by Panini Comics as part of Marvel UK's 'Collectors Edition' line. It reprinted selected Spider-Man stories and material from the American comic books.[1]
The current format is 76 pages, with three stories being printed every issue. Whilst it usually prints more modern story lines, ‘classic' tales are also used as back-up strips.[2] The inside front cover of the comic contains a message from the editor as well as a ‘Story So Far’ section to allow lapsed readers to catch up. At the back of the comic is a letter’s page (Web-Mail) whereby readers can write in and give their views and opinions on the stories. The letters page also previously included short comic strips entitled ‘Mini-Marvels’, initially reprints of Chris Giarrusso's & Lew Stringer’s work. A subscription is also available.[3]
With Panini Comics having obtained the licence to reprint Marvel comics internationally, Astonishing Spider-Man began publication in November 1995.[4] 150 issues were published in the first volume before the title was re-launched in 2007 to mark its change from a four-weekly publishing schedule to a two-weekly one.[5] Volume 2 ran for two years before it was re-launched again in December 2009 to mark the start of the "Brand New Day" storyline. Volume 4 launched in October 2013 as the Superior Spider-Man run of stories began in the title. Volume 7 is ongoing.
Issue 1: 100-PAGE-SPECIAL!
Issue 2:
Issue 3:
Issue 4:
Issue 5:
Issue 6: