Amazing Spider-Man (Vol. 2) #18
Background
The mysterious doppleganger Green Goblin used by Norman Osborn just prior to the reboot is back, but seems to be on a mission of his own and not doing Norman's bidding.
Story 'Homeward Bound'
Amazing Spider-Man (Vol. 2) #18
| Editor: | Ralph Macchio |
| Writer: | Howard Mackie |
| Pencils: | John Byrne |
| Inker: | John Romita, Sr. |
| Cover Art: | John Byrne |
| Reprinted In: | Spider-Man Universe #5 |
Peter (Spidey) still has no wife and his life is in the dumps. But, at least he has a job washing dishes. He also decides to swallow some pride, stay at Aunt May's place and accept money from Joe Robertson. Peter also makes a new friend in Randy Robertson this issue. On the obligatory action side of things, the Green Goblin returns! But not Norman or Harry Osborn, instead it's the doppleganger that was introduced just prior to the reboot. What does all this add up to? One of the best Amazing issues in a while.
General Comments
This was a great issue! Let me count the ways and rejoice!
- There are some excellent conversations between Pete and supporting characters this issue. I think for the first time since bringing Aunt May back she actually served a purpose this issue! And Pete's conversation with Randy Robertson was great. I like seeing this new friendship forming. Sure Pete talks about the friends he has, but doesn't actually just hang out with many of them. And here we see Pete having a meaningful conversation and hanging out with Randy. And the dialogue was actually pretty good? Is Howard still writing this or is it a typo?
- I may be in the minority, but I'm interested in finding out the story behind the Goblin in this issue. And in this issue he is used fairly well, though who he is wasn't resolved. The fight between Spidey and this Goblin was more interesting than most latley and I liked the way it ended with Spidey holding the wires of the cable car.
- The art was great! In fact in a couple of places I was wishing that there wasn't so many pesky words in the way. Especially in the opening sequence, I think that Byrne showed Pete's situation pretty well and the writing just over stated Pete's situation.
- I could be cynical and pick at some of the things wrong with this issue, but I'd have to be fairly cynical, because considering a lot of what has been served up on the Spider-Man platter lately, this is pretty darn good!
Overall Rating 
An easy 4 webs.