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The Amazing Spider-Man (1963-1998)
Amazing Spider-Man (1963-1998) #68
When the Kingpin of Crime looks to steal an ancient tablet, will Spider-Man be up to the task to stop him and his henchmen?
- GenresComicsSpider ManMarvel
21 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 1969
About the author
Stan Lee
7,577 books2,363 followersStan Lee (born Stanley Martin Lieber) was an American writer, editor, creator of comic book superheroes, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics.
With several artist co-creators, most notably Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, he co-created Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, Thor as a superhero, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk, Daredevil, the Silver Surfer, Dr. Strange, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Scarlet Witch, The Inhumans, and many other characters, introducing complex, naturalistic characters and a thoroughly shared universe into superhero comic books. He subsequently led the expansion of Marvel Comics from a small division of a publishing house to a large multimedia corporation.
With several artist co-creators, most notably Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, he co-created Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, Thor as a superhero, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk, Daredevil, the Silver Surfer, Dr. Strange, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Scarlet Witch, The Inhumans, and many other characters, introducing complex, naturalistic characters and a thoroughly shared universe into superhero comic books. He subsequently led the expansion of Marvel Comics from a small division of a publishing house to a large multimedia corporation.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
June 15, 2018
This issue kind of took a political turn and it was actually really interesting! It didn't go overboard with it but it didn't take it lightly either. Kingpin has come back and takes to thieving himself, which I was surprised about but it was entertaining to read when he came to blows with Spider-Man.
May 31, 2023
January 1969: students taking over Empire State University and protesting on campus - and now the Kingpin wants to steal an ancient clay tablet that may contain a powerful secret. Great 'time machine' issue that takes you back to the end of a very real turbulent time: can imagine a student protestor reading this book as s/he was protesting for real!
June 4, 2025
CRISIS ON THE CAMPUS
January
Peter and new buddy Randy get involved in a Campus protest over low cost dorms..while the Kingpin plans to steal a priceless ancient table from the campus.
nice build up to a story
January
Peter and new buddy Randy get involved in a Campus protest over low cost dorms..while the Kingpin plans to steal a priceless ancient table from the campus.
nice build up to a story
May 18, 2021
Wilson "The Kingpin" Fisk is out to steal a “newly discovered petrified clay tablet” which is traveling from university to university in hopes that someone will be able to translate the text. The opening pages establish that the Kingpin is solid muscle, and not fat as you would assume be his figure, as he easily spars with six of his goons - at the same time!
Meanwhile there is a protest happening on the University campus but Parker’s dialogue reflects Stan Lee’s attitude of declining to get involved to pick sides “Wish I had time to get more involved in this thing!” and “Anyone can paint a sign, mister! That doesn’t make you right!” it feels very unlike Peter Parker and feels problematic looking at this now; especially considering all of the protesters depicted are black and the one white kid with the “great power and responsibility” merely shrugs off their opinions whilst they are rounded up and arrested by overly aggressive police.
“The setting for the opening issue is Empire State University in the midst of student riots, which were a common occurrence in the late ‘60s. Randy Robertson, son of the Daily Bugle’s Robbie Robertson, and his fellow students are at an impasse with officials at the School. Social relevance that reflects the times-right up Stan’s alley. There’s even a bit with a fiery Gwen Stacy defending Peter Parker’s image!
The Kingpin of crime sets out to obtain a priceless stone tablet (which we based on the Rosetta Stone from antiquity) on display at the University. Using the riots as a cover, the Kingpin succeeds and makes off with the tablet. And that’s just the beginning of the saga that leads us on a wild ride as the tablet moves through many hands.” – John Romita Snr
Meanwhile there is a protest happening on the University campus but Parker’s dialogue reflects Stan Lee’s attitude of declining to get involved to pick sides “Wish I had time to get more involved in this thing!” and “Anyone can paint a sign, mister! That doesn’t make you right!” it feels very unlike Peter Parker and feels problematic looking at this now; especially considering all of the protesters depicted are black and the one white kid with the “great power and responsibility” merely shrugs off their opinions whilst they are rounded up and arrested by overly aggressive police.
“The setting for the opening issue is Empire State University in the midst of student riots, which were a common occurrence in the late ‘60s. Randy Robertson, son of the Daily Bugle’s Robbie Robertson, and his fellow students are at an impasse with officials at the School. Social relevance that reflects the times-right up Stan’s alley. There’s even a bit with a fiery Gwen Stacy defending Peter Parker’s image!
The Kingpin of crime sets out to obtain a priceless stone tablet (which we based on the Rosetta Stone from antiquity) on display at the University. Using the riots as a cover, the Kingpin succeeds and makes off with the tablet. And that’s just the beginning of the saga that leads us on a wild ride as the tablet moves through many hands.” – John Romita Snr
February 11, 2025
ASM #68 is a fascinating mix of superhero action, social commentary, and classic Kingpin villainy. While Wilson Fisk usually operates behind the scenes, this issue sees him getting his hands dirty, personally stealing an ancient clay tablet with an unknown but potentially powerful secret. The opening pages remind us just how physically dominant Kingpin is, as he effortlessly takes down six of his own henchmen to establish his strength.
Meanwhile, the backdrop of student protests at Empire State University gives the issue a distinct late-'60s political flavor. The depiction of the protests and police response feels very much a product of its time, and while Peter’s neutral stance might have resonated with some readers then, it comes across as oddly detached now. Still, seeing Randy Robertson take a stand and Gwen Stacy fiercely defend Peter’s character adds depth to the supporting cast.
Romita Sr.’s artwork is as sharp as ever, balancing the street-level realism of the protests with the high-stakes action of Spidey vs. Kingpin. Stan Lee’s script keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, blending real-world themes with the usual superhero spectacle.
Overall, this issue is an interesting time capsule, reflecting the turbulence of the late ’60s while delivering a gripping Spidey vs. Kingpin clash. A compelling and thought-provoking read!
Meanwhile, the backdrop of student protests at Empire State University gives the issue a distinct late-'60s political flavor. The depiction of the protests and police response feels very much a product of its time, and while Peter’s neutral stance might have resonated with some readers then, it comes across as oddly detached now. Still, seeing Randy Robertson take a stand and Gwen Stacy fiercely defend Peter’s character adds depth to the supporting cast.
Romita Sr.’s artwork is as sharp as ever, balancing the street-level realism of the protests with the high-stakes action of Spidey vs. Kingpin. Stan Lee’s script keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, blending real-world themes with the usual superhero spectacle.
Overall, this issue is an interesting time capsule, reflecting the turbulence of the late ’60s while delivering a gripping Spidey vs. Kingpin clash. A compelling and thought-provoking read!
January 9, 2026
7/10 - Back to School
This issue offers a quick and engaging read, focusing in Peter’s relationships and everyday themes, specifically school protests tied to social and political issues common in that era.
Stan skilfully uses the rich and interesting supporting cast of this title, to deliver an enjoyable and mostly credible story, despite relying on some stereotypical characters, dialogues, and typical situations.
Kingpin, at this point, is far from the criminal mastermind operating in the shadows. Those years, he plays more of an action-oriented role, participating even in minor heists.
Nevertheless, he remains an interesting and powerful character who continues to develop his antagonism with Spider-Man.
This issue offers a quick and engaging read, focusing in Peter’s relationships and everyday themes, specifically school protests tied to social and political issues common in that era.
Stan skilfully uses the rich and interesting supporting cast of this title, to deliver an enjoyable and mostly credible story, despite relying on some stereotypical characters, dialogues, and typical situations.
Kingpin, at this point, is far from the criminal mastermind operating in the shadows. Those years, he plays more of an action-oriented role, participating even in minor heists.
Nevertheless, he remains an interesting and powerful character who continues to develop his antagonism with Spider-Man.
September 15, 2021
Dengan memanfaatkan kekisruhan di kampus E.S.U., tempat dimana Peter Parker dan Randy Robertson kuliah, Kingpin mencuri lempengan lempung kuno yang berisikan simbol-simbol misterius. Spider-Man berusaha mencegahnya ...
Nomor sebelumnya merupakan kemunculan pertama kali Randy Robertson yang merupakan putera dari Robbie Robertson, editor kepala di Daily Bugle, dalam serial Amazing Spider-Man ini. Di nomor ini ia mendapatkan porsi peran yang besar.
Nomor sebelumnya merupakan kemunculan pertama kali Randy Robertson yang merupakan putera dari Robbie Robertson, editor kepala di Daily Bugle, dalam serial Amazing Spider-Man ini. Di nomor ini ia mendapatkan porsi peran yang besar.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews