The Sensational Spider-Man Annual # 1 - To Have And To Hold

This was a great issue. Nothing really major happened. I understand that I may get some flack about liking it so much (and I was joking about the "girl" thing). But this story really showed the relationship that Peter and MJ have.

Lately, we haven't really seen much interaction between them. Peter's been too busy outting himself, being Stark's errand boy, and then being on the run. Yes they did separate for a while. But they did find their way back together.

I've really been enjoying Matt Fraction's writing around and have always loved Salvador Larroca's art. The cover is very John Romita mixed with his realistic artwork. Paco Roca's colored art also makes the art shine. It's just beautiful stuff.

I enjoyed the flashback sequences. It was nice to see Harry and Gwen (and Captain Stacy) again, even if there was some underlying reasons for the flashbacks (like a current film in a theatre near you). We even got a little info about when they were separated and MJ was living the glamorous life out in LA. Good to know she was faithful. After all, why wouldn't she have been. That's not her style.

I know that Marvel's been wanting to kill her off for some time. It seems they have trouble having a popular character being married. I think they fear that the "kids" can't relate to a married superhero. Give them some more credit. This issue shows how strong their love is. They are meant to be together. Both of them were prepared to give up everything for the other. I really hope Marvel doesn't take "the easy way out." I love a semi-dark Spidey in the black suit, but he is supposed to be funny and witty. First his life gets turned upside down, then Aunt May gets shot, and if MJ bites the big one...that's just too much. Yeah, I'm sure the "kids" want to read about so much pain and death. That's entertaining.

Again I have to say, this was just a beautiful issue.

What made me feel like a girl

Being part of a comic book generation thats changed over many years. Its something to come by an issue like this one. Just seeing through MJ & Peter's eyes everything about why they came together, and a candid moment that wasnt in the classic pages. They have been the duo that fought, loved, and cared for each other. Not to mention they are one of the classic couples to date. Even though stories have been done, and over again. This annual just grasps a bit of the past, and present. Its definitely a worthwhile read, and a must own for any comic book fan.

The whole idea of MJ denying to give up her marriage even when her own life has been in danger,is a great situation.I think Joe Q. might wanna check this after the infamous On More Day plot. It´s a classical love story that no one should miss. One of the main reason this story works, is the flashback images, i just love to see those type of stories. It made us remember Gwen, remember Harry, and some others beloved characters. In my opinion everything is great, just one thing bothers me, it is implied that MJ and this guy Brady O´Brien had something while she was in LA. Has anyone noticed that? I read another review and it says it was good to see she was faithfull, if you check out Mj´s words when Pete rescues her, it is strongly suggested that she might have had something maybe not too serious with this guy. That thing really weakens the story.