Amazing Spider-Man Annual #37

In "The Spider and the Shield!", Peter Parker finds himself caught in the crossfire between Spider-Man and the Human Top—only to be handed an unexpected opportunity when Stan Lee offers him a shot at starring in his own licensed Marvel comic. Written by Kurt Busiek and illustrated by Pat Olliffe, this 2010 annual captures the familiar frustration of Peter’s misadventures, as his dream of creative control backfires when Marvel publishes the book without him—and without a paycheck. The cover, by Marcos Martín, perfectly captures the moment’s chaotic charm.