*Marvel: Sandwiched between the Silver Surfer/Galactus epic and the introduction of the Black Panther is the wonderful story that is Fantastic Four #51, fresh from the Good Doctor Collection this week. Not a ‘key’ issue; not a fabulous first appearance; not a universe-rending battle for reality. Just a simple, poignant and masterful example of done-in-one storytelling without the bloated ‘epics’ of today, as a man with a scheme for revenge against Reed Richards steals the identity of one of Reed’s closest friends, and discovers the truth. It’s a tale of revenge, loss and redemption, and proves that while Lee & Kirby’s output is often emulated, at their peak it is truly inimitable. A nice enough cents copy with a cover unmarked but for a couple of soft vertical creases (one of which faintly breaks colour over the Thing’s figure) and some corner blunting. Minor edge wear, firm staples, off-white pages.
PICTURED: FANTASTIC FOUR #51 VG+ £50 SOLD