The Amazing Spider-Man #624

Part of the 2010 "Gauntlet" storyline, this issue presents one of the most arresting images of the run: Spider-Man lies crumpled and bloodied on the ground, cast entirely in the massive, ominous shadow of the Vulture, whose winged silhouette dominates the upper half of Michael Lark and Jodi Wynne's striking cover. The composition does all the storytelling you need — the hero down, the predator looming — and it's a testament to how effectively a single image can set the stakes. With Mark Waid and Paul Azaceta among the creative team, this issue looks like essential reading for fans of Spider-Man pushed to his limits.