In a previous life, Dr Theodore Sallis attempted to replicate the Super-Soldier Serum. However, a terrible accident – as well as the combination of the serum and magical forces – has turned him into the swamp creature known as Man-Thing. Now he wanders the Florida Keys, helping strangers and guarding the Nexus of all Realities.
While this might sound like DC Comics’ Swamp Thing, Man-Thing differs in his abilities. Swamp Thing is an elemental being, where Marvel’s swamp creature works more in the abstract. He’s a silent empath whose touch burns when he senses fear. Through this, Man-Thing is a vehicle to tell horror stories on the fringes of the superhero world.
(This is a brief overview of Man-Thing. I can do a much more detailed piece on what makes the character interesting if there’s enough demand for it in the comments.)
While Man-Thing has been sporadically used since the 70s (when he was a staple), he’s returned to the spotlight in “Curse of the Man-Thing”. This mini-crossover has the swamp creature co-star opposite Spider-Man, X-Men, and Avengers.
So you don’t miss an issue, I’ve put together this handy reading order for “Curse of the Man-Thing”. It lists all the comics you need to read and their recommended order, along with other helpful details too.
Do I need to read everything?
“Curse of the Man-Thing” is a three-part crossover told over a series of one-shots. While each issue looks like a new story, with new characters featured in each, “Curse of the Man-Thing” has a specific reading order. It’s like a baton relay. After each issue, the story is handed over to a new set of characters to continue the tale.
Background Reading
What should you read before starting “Curse of the Man-Thing”? There aren’t any stories or series that are essential to understanding it. However, here are a few reading suggestions if you want some familiarity with the characters.
Man-Thing by Steve Gerber – The Complete Collection Volume 1
This collects Man-Thing’s earliest appearances and a big chunk of his original solo series. Check it out if you’re interested in reading Man-Thing’s origin or want to get a sense of what the character is all about.
X-Men (2019 Series) #3
If the preview for “Avengers: Curse of the Man-Thing” is anything indication, the group known as “Hordeculture” will be featured throughout this crossover. Check out their first appearance if you want to know more about these villainous botanists.
Reading Order
Take a look below at the recommended order to read “Curse of the man-Thing”.
Avengers: Curse of the Man-Thing (Part 1)
Written by Steve Orlando. Art by Francesco Mobili.
Available March 31st.
Spider-Man: Curse of the Man-Thing (Part 2)
Written by Steve Orlando. Art by Alberto Foche.
Available April 28th.
X-Men: Curse of the Man-Thing (Part 3)
Written by Steve Orlando. Art by Andrea Broccardo.
Available May 5th.
Have Your Say!
Are you going to read this crossover? Share your thoughts in the comments below or via Facebook or Twitter.
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