If you’re looking for a surefire method to get a buddy into the hobby during the hype of Spidey-mania, then you’d be wise to circle May 5th on your calendar. Coinciding with Spider-Man 3’s opening weekend, the upcoming Free Comic Book Day celebrates and raises awareness of the artform by giving visitors to approximately 2,000 participating comic shops a free book – no purchase required. While you probably won’t be able to waltz into a shop and snatch up a signed copy of Maus, we welcome the industry’s attempt to broaden its audience. For a list of sponsers and the issues that are poised for giveaway, checkout www.freecomicbookday.com.

–Jeffrey Wilson