Parallel Lives (1989)
reading order guide
Story by Gerry Conway
We’ve got you covered with a complete list of must-read issues, commentary, and where to start.
Modern
Why should you
read it
This quiet, emotional retelling of Spider-Man’s early years gives readers a parallel view of Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson—two people who seemed to meet by chance but may have always been more connected than we thought. While Peter struggles with his identity as Spider-Man and the guilt from Uncle Ben’s death, Mary Jane hides a secret of her own: that she knew Peter's secret long before he ever imagined. Their lives, once running beside each other, slowly converge in a story about truth, vulnerability, and love.
Parallel Lives (1989) Reading Order Guide
Complete List of Issues with Unlimited Reading Links
| Comics | Unlimited links |
|---|---|
| Spider-Man: Parallel Lives (1989, reprinted in 2012) | Read on Marvel's Site |
Comments & Additional Info
It’s important to note that this story is long—but absolutely worth it. The pencils, the colors, the realism, and so much more make it a standout. I believe writer Gerry Conway also deserves a huge round of applause. The story presents a linear and heartfelt journey of Peter and Mary Jane, from their childhoods all the way to their wedding and their terrifying confrontation with Doctor Octopus.