The Marvel Vault: A Museum-in-a-book with Rare Collectibles from the World of Marvel

Roy Thomas and Peter Sanderson have gathered together in this book not only a history of Marvel from Marvel Comics # 1 (1939) up to 2006, which is impressive enough but a whole host of extras from Marvel's past make it a superb collector's item.From reproductions of sketches of Marvel's WW2 heroes, especially the Sub-Mariner, Marvel's longest lasting continual character, the original Torch being an android. There's a reproduction MMMS membership card (I was a member of FOOM in the 1970's), the no-prize book, Marvel value stamps and many more items, it's a nostalgics dream. There are also truly personal items like Bill Everett's postcards.Marvel fans are an intrinsic part of the Marvel extended family and although like most families, there are the odd breakdowns by and large Marvel has kept a large and loyal fan-base. It does not gloss over the collapse of Marvel and the comic industry in the 1990's due to corporate over-reach (greed) and the eventual rebirth, through to Heroes Reborn, and the recent spate of blockbuster movies.Reading through it the names of the people who made Marvel great, Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, Roy Thomas himself, John Buscema, John Romita and countless others appear and invoke great memories. I was a Marvelite in the 1970's and 1980's and am now catching up on both the stories I read first time round and many I missed out on. This book is full of absolutely wonderful art reproductions that cover almost 70 years and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone, 'nuff said.

This was a Christmas present for my eldest son so I can't review it as an owner. That said, if my son's reaction on Christmas morning is anything to go by or the fact that it was the most talked about present I've got him in years or that he hardly put it down, then it must be awesome! Some of the aspects he commented on were the different and historical copies of original documents, the level of detail - something any fan would appreciate. He has wanted this for years apparently but even if waiting had heightened his expectations, he was not in any way disappointed. I pointed out to him the problem other reviewers had mentioned about the weakness of the paper around the punched holes when turning pages. He agreed but again, it didn't spoil his enjoyment - 'if you're a real fan, you're going to treat it (the book) very carefully anyway' - and he moved swiftly on to working his way through the book with a widening smile with every page. Thank you, Marvel!!

Wanted an extra chrismas present for someone who loves Marvel comics. This looked a bargain especially after seeing the price in a large bookshop was £35. It has been thoroughly enjoyed by the recipient. A real pleasure for anyone who loves their Marvel - a real fans gift.It was very well packaged when it arrived and I can't fault the condition it was in.

A gift, so cannot judge, but nevertheless well received by the recipient.

Perfext as a gidt for someone young who has got into the films and now can go back further. MAke sure you get a copy in good condition

Great piece

Birthday present for my son but all his mates are lusting after it! Great representation with interesting memorabilia. Even I found it interesting as a 58 year old mother!

I bought this as a gift for a friend. It took ages to arrive (from America) and was missing some pages. After, I found several other companies that held it in stock at a lower price. My friend loves it and wouldn't let me return it for an exchange.