Credits
Writer(s):
Stan Lee (Plot); Larry Lieber
Penciller(s):
Dick Ayers
Inker(s):
Dick Ayers
Colorist(s):
?
Letterer(s):
John Duffy
Editor(s):
Stan Lee (original editor)
Subject Matter
Genres:
superhero
Feature(s):
Human Torch
Character(s):
Human Torch [Johnny Storm]; Carl Zante [Acrobat] (Intro); Invisible Girl [Sue Storm]; Mr. Fantastic [Reed Richards]; Thing [Ben Grimm]; Miracle Man (flashback); Sub-Mariner (flashback); Dr. Doom (flashback)
Synopsis:
Carl Zante, "The world's greatest acrobat," visits Sue, seeking The Human Torch. Johnny wonders how Zante knew his identity; the acrobat tells him everyone knows he is the Torch. Sue explains that Glenville residents left him alone because they assumed he valued his privacy. Zante tries to convince Johnny that he is the FF's most valuable member and persuades him to join him in fighting crime. In actuality Zante only wants Johnny to help him rob a bank. With a little help from his partners Johnny nabs Zante, explaining he suspected Zante all along but wanted to uncover his scheme.
Reprinting
Reprint Notes:
Miscellaneous
Pages:
13
Notes:
First appearance of Carl Zante ("The World's Greatest Acrobat"). Zante would return in STRANGE TALES #114 (November 1963). First appearance of Johnny's obstacle training course. Last story in which Johnny worries about having a "secret identity." Splash page reformatted with art added, "Stan Lee presents" added, and page numbers removed for this reprint.