I hated to give this book any press at all since its gotten way more than it should, but since I don’t have anything good to say about it then it will get the negative press it deserves from me. I know that sounds harsh, but I can’t bring myself here to pull punches.

The positive side…I know I said I didn’t have anything good to say about it… is the book is nice to look at the art is great. Ok but that only gets you so far….well yeah with many comic book kiddies the art gets you everywhere but bear with me here…. The story is bland, the entire concept is trite, and it’s annoying that it soils the amazing fantasy brand.

I was bored to death with this book. It’s basically a rehash of Spiderman’s origin but instead of science creating the spider its some mystical "spider society". I’m not making this up.

The “character” started out getting a 6 issue origin (yes for some reason it took that many books) and now despite its terrible story and boring character it’s been given its own title now. Arana is the characters name “That’s pronounced ah-rahn-ya, for all you gringos!” – Marvel …thanks marvel for clearing that up for us gringos.

“… by night, the butt-kicking Hunter of the ancient and mystical Spider Society!” - Marvel … WOW the ancient and mystical Spider Society!!

The origin was really drawn out and it seemed they just wanted to get one more book out of it each time. Now that a graphic novel of all 6 issues is out shortly after the run, I can only assume they wanted to be sure to have the pages to fill one.

People might try and say that at 28 I am too old to get it, but if “getting it” means accepting bland boring story with pretty visuals then sign me up as too old. Sure this is a “series of teen-friendly adventures”, but this book is an insult to the intelligence of young comic book readers.

I tried to ask myself would I have liked this book at that age. I think I would have stayed with it for a few issues just because it looks good and I would have hoped for more….but it wouldn’t have taken me long to see it for what it is. I think much of the popularity in sales is attributed to that. I could be wrong and only time will tell.

Marvel must know the story and character is bad because the only thing you hear over and over in their promos for it is “Marvel’s first Latina super hero!”, and so far that is all that has given this title any press at all. To say it’s riding the coattails of Spiderman’s popularity, and the “first Latina super hero” tag line, is to state the obvious.

Anyway as usual you don’t have to take my word for it, check it out for yourself, although I suggest reading it in the comic book shop isle. Spend your money on something quality.