Marvel Masterworks “Rawhide Kid” Volume 1

Title: Marvel Masterworks “Rawhide Kid” Volume 1
Reprinting in color Rawhide Kid Numbers 17-25 (August 1960- December 1961)
Writer: Stan Lee
Pencilers: Jack Kirby (17-25)
Don Heck (17,20-22)
Dick Ayers (Numbers. 18, 24, 25)
Paul Reinman (Numbers 19,23)
First printing – 2006
Marvel Comics
Reviewed by: Allen Klingelhoets

The book started out with introduction by Stan Lee. He talked about The Rawhide Kid actually debuted in 1955. It took half a decade to decide if wanted to continue western series. The Rawhide Kid was Johnny Bart. His origin was given in issue # 17. The origin was also retold several issues later. Johnny had Uncle Ben that was taking care of him. His Uncle Ben taught Johnny how to be very skilled using gun. The setting for origin was set in a place called Rawhide, Texas. Johnny’s uncle adopted him. Uncle Ben had ranch near Rawhide. Uncle Ben was also ex-Texas Ranger. Uncle Ben was also known for being one of fastest gun drawers that ever lived. This caused problems. He trained Johnny in the art of gunmanship. Johnny made pact with his uncle. Uncle Ben said to Johnny when boy was about eighteen, “Johnny, I’ve taught you all I can! I reckon you’re ‘most twice as good as I ever was, Boy! I hope you never have to use that gun trainin’!”

Jonny replied: “I never will, Uncle Ben --- Unless it’s for self-defense!”

A short time later Johnny went into the town of Rawhide for supplies. His uncle stayed at ranch. Two -gun slingers wanted to make name for themselves by killing Uncle Ben. This was very sad. Uncle Ben did not know two people. The second one hid. When first person tried to get Uncle Ben to draw and shot. The second one called Ben. He was distracted long enough for first one to shoot killing shot. Thus, began origin of Rawhide Kid. He never shot any one to kill. Johnny could shoot flame out of candle. He could shoot down rope of motel sign or off gun buckle of another person attempting to kill him. Johnny was a hero with out super powers. His actions though were mistaken by law as very dangerous wanted person.

I enjoyed western stories. I also noticed name Uncle Ben was same name as Uncle Ben who was Peter Parker’s Uncle in: “The Amazing Spider-Man.” This was in origin in Amazing Fantasy # 15. Stan Lee even commented about this in his introduction.

I also noticed one bad person gunfighter in one story was called: ”Hulk.” This one though was not bombarded with Gamma Radiation. I also found it fun to notice all issues had covers included. All issues back in 1960 and 1961 cost ten cents each.

I got my copy through inter-library loan service. I think teen to adult age group reading level. The library lists as young adult.


Allen Klingelhoets