Ultimate Spider-Man,Vol. 2: Learning Curve, by Brian Michael Bendis

Ultimate Spider-Man,Vol. 2:  Learning Curve, by Brian Michael Bendis. New York: Marvel Comics, 2004. Unpaged. ISBN 0785108203


READER'S ANNOTATION
It's hard balancing school and work...especially when you're fighting crime at the same time.

GENRE
Graphic Novel/Comic Book

SUMMARY
"Following the murder of his uncle, the assault on his high school, and the confusing signals from Mary Jane Watson, Peter [Parker] finds himself on the brink of manhood: getting a job at a New York City newspaper, the Daily Bugle, to help support his family and taking on other extracurricular activities...like bringing down organized crime head honcho Wilson Fisk, otherwise known as the Kingpin!" (summary on back cover)

EVALUATION 
This is an update to the original Spiderman series, telling Peter's story from the beginning, but in the present day.  The illustrations are in full color, which seems rare in teen graphic novels (based on the limited number that I've read) and is quite striking.  Characters' emotions are clearly expressed in these depictions, although some are a bit static, and Mary Jane in particular looks older than the high school student she is meant to be.  The story is of course action-packed, but there are comedic moments inserted here and there, such as Peter's interaction with a school psychologist.  Overall, a fun, light read.  Poterntial controversial element: violence.

HOW THIS BOOK HELPS
Teens who have a large amount of responsibility may identify with Peter Parker.

WHY I CHOSE TO READ IT
I had never read a Spiderman comic/graphic novel before.