Fantastic Four #574

This is one of those "change of pace" stories, which gives the characters (and the creative team) a chance to catch their breath and get things lined up for upcoming stories.

So this is a quiet issue, but that doesn't mean nothing happens. Actually, several things take place that will have a major effect on the status quo of the team, as some familiar old faces - and some new ones - are welcomed into the Fantastic Four's "nuclear family."

The issue centers around a birthday party for Reed and Sue's son Franklin (though I don't think they ever mention just how old he is. The poor kid seems stuck at 10).

Still, it's a heartfelt, touching issue, and just when things seem calm, a shocking event sets up a major future storyline for the team.

I continue to be impressed with the writing of Jonathan Hickman, who really seems to "get" the big story potential of this team.

I'm not quite as impressed by guest artist Neil Edwards, who seems to struggle in a few places with the look of some of the characters. Still, there's some nice work here, and I do like that final panel.

So another good issue and a good jumping-on spot, with the caveat that this is just the set-up. Things should really start cracking next issue.

Grade: B+