A month after the extra-large 150th issue event (which was technically the 149th or 151st, regardless of how much Marvel tries to fudge their numbers) and we’re back to basics for Ultimate Spider-Man; Peter Parker is hanging out at school, and we get lots of teen drama from that in the aftermath of Gwen Stacy’s departure a few issues ago. There’s also some intense action as the Black Cat returns and gets wrapped up in the Mysterio storyline from a few months back. It’s amazing how Bendis can juggle all of these plot threads and manage to keep the plot fresh, original and engaging throughout. The art by Sara Pichelli is darker than it was on her previous issues, but compliments the usual David Lafuente style and drags the book into a more anime-influenced Manga style. As we head towards the impending “Death” arc, let’s hope Bendis and his team of artists can maintain this high level of entertainment and general brilliance.