Book Review: Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt by J. M. DeMatteis, Mike Zeck


Author: J. M. DeMatteis
Title: Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt
Penciler: Mike Zeck
Editor: Jeff Youngquist
Publication Info: Marvel Universe, February 3, 2021
Summary/Review:

This graphic novel collects a classic Spider-Man storyline where the villain Kraven the Hunter decides to take the ultimate revenge.  Kraven buries Spider-Man alive while then becoming the Spider-Man to humiliate him with the public.  Meanwhile, Vermin rises from the New York sewers to attack the populace.

The better part of the story is told with narration boxes showing the internal monologues of Spider-Man, Kraven, and Vermin.  It is an interesting technique as what is on their minds often doesn’t match what’s happening in the illustration.  It does give a depth to their characterization, although I think it also gets overused.

Apparently this book ties together artwork from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, although it all looks like one cohesive storyline and art style, so I’m a bit confused about that.  Anyhow, if you’re like me and didn’t read comics much growing up, this collection is a good introduction to one of Marvel’s most famous stories.

Rating: ***1/2