Comic Title: Essential Human Torch TPB
Publisher: Marvel
Cover Date: 2003
On Sale Date: August 13, 2003 Direct Market Date August 13, 2003
Source: Previews, Vol. 13 #6 (#174)

Direct Market Date August 13, 2003
Source: ComicList, New Comic Book Releases List for Wednesday, August 13, 2003

Cover Price: $14.99
Page Count: 504
Editor: Jeff Youngquist

See Also: The Guide to Graphic Novels and Collected Editions

Title: "Prisoner of the Wizard"
Pages: 13

Feature(s):
Human Torch (Johnny Storm)

Plotter: Stan Lee
Scripter: Larry D. Lieber
Penciller: Jack Kirby
Inker: Dick Ayers
Letterer: Artie Simek

Reprinted From:
Strange Tales #102 (1962)

Feature Character(s)

• Human Torch (last appearance in Fantastic Four #8; next appearance in Fantastic Four #9)

Supporting Character(s)

• Invisible Girl (last appearance in Fantastic Four #8; next appearance in Fantastic Four #9)

Villain(s)

• Wizard (first appearance; next appearance in Strange Tales #105)

Other Character(s)

• Two unnamed friends of Johnny Storm (no further appearances)
• Several convicted felons (no further appearances)

Cameo Appearance(s)

• The Destroyer (in a newsreel recapping Strange Tales #101)

Comments:
Part 2: "Wizard Wiles"

Synopsis:
The Wizard, a renowned chess champion and inventor, is jealous of the notoriety of the Human Torch. He vows to discredit the Torch and prove himself superior. First he arranges for the Torch to rescue him, then he invites the hero to his home. Once inside, the Wizard traps Johnny.

With the real Human Torch out of the way, the Wizard impersonate his adversary. He robs a bank, stages a prison break, and interrupts traffic in an effort to sully the reputation of his foe. When the real Torch escapes, he finds that the public has turned against him. The Wizard arranges another meeting with Johnny, offering proof of his innocence as bait. However, Johnny outsmarts the Wizard by secretly arranging assistance from his sister, the Invisible Girl. The Torch's name is cleared, and the Wizard is taken into custody by police.