Once I got to read it, I got through it in one sitting. This is a compilation of annual issues of four series set in the Ultimates universe of Marvel (where the heroes are recast as teens). The stories felt a bit short, and in the case of the Fantastic Four, it felt like a rushed story: too short and too abrupt. I liked the Ultimates story best; the Spider-Man one was nice and sweet. Overall, I think fans will likely enjoy this collection. But it may leave you wanting more. ( )

I would have preferred that each annual had been collected with its respective title instead of being lumped together in one collection of their own (some titles included annuals [Fantastic Four, for example] while others did not [The Ultimates]), but the trade does give you a nice sampling of what the Ultimate Universe offered at the time this was published.

First up was the Fantastic Four, in which they meet the Inhumans. If you're familiar with the 616-verse, you know that the Fantastic Four and the Inhumans have a long history together, so this was interesting to read and see the changes.

Next was the X-Men; specifically, Rogue and Gambit. Rogue had once been a member of the Brotherhood of Mutants, but she had switched her allegiance to the X-Men. Now she's struck out on her own and, like her 616 counterpart, paired up with Remy. I liked this one, but it definitely didn't feel resolved when the story ended.

Third was the Spider-Man story, although it was really a crossover with the X-Men. Kitty Pryde and Peter Parker are both the outcasts in their respective worlds, and this one was really cute. I probably liked this story best of all.

Finally was the Ultimates annual, which predominantly featured Nick Fury (although the regulars all made brief appearances). Of all the stories, I probably liked this one least. It just didn't pull me in like the other three stories in the collection did.

Altogether, though, this was a good, quick read. Bottom line: If you like the Ultimate Universe, you'll probably enjoy these stories. ( )