The Fantastic Four: Best The Thing Stories to Read Before the MCU Reboot

“This Man… This Monster!”

In 1966’s “Fantastic Four” issue #51, titled “This Man… This Monster!”, is often considered one of Marvel Comics’ most legendary tales – and rightly so. The story revolves around Ben, who struggles with his dual identity as a reluctant superhero and a mutated being. A mad scientist, seeking revenge on Reed Richards, steals Ben’s powers, disguising himself as The Thing to infiltrate the Baxter Building. In the ensuing events, the scientist sacrifices himself. Meanwhile, the genuine Ben is preparing to propose to his girlfriend, Alicia Masters, only to be transformed back into his superhuman self upon the imposter’s death.

Reading “This Man… This Monster!” significantly contributes to portraying The Thing as a deeply emotional figure within the Marvel Universe. It’s an essential read for those aiming to delve deeper into understanding this complex character.

Marvel Two-in-One

Shifting focus from a solitary matter to a prolonged sequence of events, one key aspect of The Thing’s comic book career is his involvement in the anthology series called “Marvel Two-in-One”. This title indicates that each episode featured Ben paired with a superhero or villain from the vast Marvel universe, and documented the amusing adventures that frequently transpired.

In the initial volume of Marvel Two-in-One, you’ll find numerous significant topics that serve as a foundation for the budding camaraderie between him and She-Hulk.

The Big Change

Among Marvel enthusiasts, The Thing and The Hulk are frequently mentioned together due to their towering heights and sorrowful pasts. In the 1987 comic book release titled “The Big Transformation“, these two characters team up in a bizarre and completely unanticipated manner within the Marvel Comics graphic novel series.

In an extraordinary turn of events, Ben and the Hulk find themselves kidnapped by an alien granting wishes. This whimsical escapade showcases the enjoyable aspects of these two characters while showcasing delightful artwork courtesy of Bernie Wrightson.

Night Falls on Yancy Street

In 2003, a serial titled “The Thing — Night Falls on Yancy Street” was released under the imprint of Startling Stories. This narrative propelled Ben’s storyline into the 21st century. The series intertwines two aspects of Ben’s life: his personal journey, in which he develops romantic feelings for a woman named Hazel, and his superhero exploits as he battles Absorbing Man.

Despite its tenuous link to the broader Marvel Universe, the miniseries “_Night Falls on Yancy Street_” serves as a self-contained and engaging tale that deepens fans’ understanding of the character Ben.

Fantastic Four #511

In the “Hereafter” storyline from Mark Waid and Mike Weiringo’s 2004 “Fantastic Four” series (issue #511), there is a particularly poignant chapter in Ben’s comic lore. This issue finds the Fantastic Four embarking on a journey to heaven with the aim of rescuing Ben’s soul, but matters take an unexpected turn and become even more complex.

From that point on, we witness an emotional and unusual portrayal of what the afterlife could be like, along with a heartfelt homage to the special bond Ben shares with his teammates and chosen family.

Clobberin’ Time

In conclusion, Steve Skroce’s 2023 miniseries titled “Clobberin’ Time” is a humorous and contemporary tribute to The Thing’s past, focusing particularly on his days in the Marvel Two-in-One. Over the course of its five issues, Ben Grimm collaborates with various characters such as The Hulk, Doctor Strange, Doctor Doom, among others. As the story unfolds, a plot involving multiple universes gradually unfurls.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t stress enough how essential reading Clobberin’ Time is, not just because of the hilarious antics the series offers, but also due to the sheer enjoyment that Skroce’s artwork brings.

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The Fantastic Four: First Steps will be released exclusively in theaters on July 25, 2025.