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.

Format

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. 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.

Publication history

With Panini Comics having obtained the licence to reprint Marvel comics internationally, Astonishing Spider-Man began publication in November 1995. 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. 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.

Printed material

Volume 5 (2014–2016)

Volume 6 (2016–2018)

Volume 7 (2018–2020)

Issue 1: 100-PAGE-SPECIAL! Issue 2: Issue 3: Issue 4: Issue 5: Issue 6: