The Spectacular Spider-Man #112 - March 1985

As a festive treat, here's a review of a 1985 Spidey story. This is fun story that concludes the ongoing sub-plot of the robbing Santa Claus from the past few issues. In this issue, written by Peter David, 'Santa' is out to rob the son of Bambi, one of Peter Parker's neighbours, on Christmas Eve night. It doesn't go totally to plan, however, as Pete is sleeping next door and is awakened by a huge jolt in his spider-sense. Obviously he puts an end to Santa's hold-up of Bambi but 'Santa' gets away. Only to bump into the real Santa Claus. The real St Nick teaches Bad Santa the error of his ways off-panel, turning Bad Santa into Good Santa as he gives out presents to children in the Bugle lobby. Black Cat returns full of Xmas joy this issue, by stopping thieves of mink coats. Instead of returning them she shows some goodwill (though wouldn't returning the coats be a nicer gesture?), and gives a couple of cold bag ladies them to wear. The main theme running through the story is that Pete is lonely, even taking time to share a Coke (and points out it's not New Coke) with his black costume. Of course, as all Spidey Xmas tales go, he ends up at Aunt May's for dinner. A further side-plot, which I expect to be developed on in future issues is of an abusive father and his son's teacher. The art is pretty good in this story and it has a different idea to other Christmas. The cover is awesome, I've posted it here and hope you like it too.