Marvels # 0 - Book Zero

Tells the story of Jim Hammond, the original Human Torch's origin, through his own eyes.

Jim Hammond was created by the great scientist Phineas Thomas Horton, but Horton only intended to create a normal android, the flaming skin was an accident. The public feared the flaming man as a possible menace. Because of this and that Hammond could not control his flames he had to be incased in metal coffin and dropped into concrete where oxygen could not reach him, and therefore he could not burn. Under the concrete Hammond was taught about the world of man through an invention of Hortons. This learning method taught him the importance of "life" and "freedom", helping to mold him into the hero he would become.

The story ends with a crack in the concrete allowing oxygen to reach Hammond's body. His body quickly ignites and he blasts his way out of the prison, eventually learning to control his powers.