10 Spider-Man Graphic Novels You Must Read Before You Die
What are the best collections that feature Marvel's web-slinger?
Since he first span his way into the pages of Amazing Fantasy #15 in 1962, Spider-Man has told hundreds of stories over dozens of years. Whether he's fighting his usual motley crew of villains or gate-crashing other titles to lend a helping hand, Peter Parker has given countless hours of entertainment throughout his history.
But with such a storied back catalog, it can be quite a slog figuring out what is essential in the Spidey canon. After all, for every time he's defeated Venom, there are memories of Doctor Octopus almost marrying Aunt May that leave you reaching for the mental floss.
As a comic book fan, this can leave you with a conundrum when it comes to everyone's favorite Web-Head, namely - what's worth reading and what should be cast onto the nearest bonfire. Do you really need to see him sacrifice his marriage to the Devil, or would you just be better off pretending that never existed?
Hopefully, this list will help point you in the right direction, whether you're a long time fan or new to the trials and tribulations of the friendly neighborhood crimefighter.
10. The Clone Saga
There was zero middle ground when it came to The Clone Saga, you either loved it or you hated it. Even now, if you bring it up in certain circles you will get just as many people questioning your parentage as you will standing behind you. But a book this divisive needs to be on any must-read list, if for no other reason than to give you the opportunity to make up your own mind.
The seeds for the much-maligned 1994 story were originally sewn way back in 1973 when Gerry Conway killed off Gwen Stacy, before deciding to bring her back. He would do this via The Jackal who would clone her and Peter, resulting in the two Spider-Men fighting to the death.
It wouldn't be until the mid-nineties that the clone resurfaced. Going by the name Ben Reilly, he would become the Scarlet Spider until a series of unfortunate events followed that ended with the massive reveal that the entire thing had been orchestrated by... well, let's not ruin it, shall we?
Let's just say that if you haven't read it, you really should. Just don't start picking up pitchforks if you end up hating it.