Keep in mind that this book focuses on Spider-Man as a member of the Avengers. But the Avengers show up in the last few pages. That’s not bad because this story is actually quite good. With a great blend of action and humor, Avenging Spider-Man #3 follows the titular hero as he rescues mayor J. Jonah Jameson from the subterranean Moloids who needed JJJ as their champion. In the previous issue Red Hulk stood in for Jameson as the challenger to the invading Underground Army. Hulk ended up with a sword in his gullet.

Spider-Man gets Jameson to safety. Being a hero that he is, Spider-Man takes on the invading army. The outcome of that challenge was sheer fun. Keep in mind that this book is intended for teenagers. I found the same sense of fun in this book that I encountered when Art Adams took over the Fantastic Four. Remember the stand in’s when the regular Four disappeared? Hulk, Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Ghost Rider. It was a blast. And you know what? So was this little adventure. Granted it won’t stand out in comic history like the replacement Four will; this book nevertheless makes a great issue for Spider-fans.

The artwork is standard for what you would expect from a Marvel book. Madureira conveys great expression through the big eyes on Spidey’s costume. I had no problem, and there were no errant images to bother me.

My one gripe was the denouement that dragged out for no reason other than to slip in a joke at Red Hulk’s expense and to have the Avengers say something totally inconsequential. But at least Marvel can say they were in the book. Sigh. While not a must read, this is a fun read.

Score: 3/5

Writer: Zeb Wells Artist: Joe Madureira Publisher: Marvel Comics Price: $3.99 Release Date: 1/18/12