YMMV / Spider-Boy

• And You Thought It Would Fail: People were shocked when Bailey got his own solo comic despite being less than a year old publication-wise. Combined with his mixed reception, people expected the comic to bomb. Even C.B. Cebulski, Marvel's editor-in-chief, didn't expect Bailey to be a particularly big hit. But Cebulski revealed in an interview that Spider-Boy wound up being Marvel's best-selling comic of the year with its first issue alone, leaving him as surprised as everyone else.
• Base-Breaking Character: Bailey's reception is polarizing at the best of times. His introduction as Spider-Man's Kid Sidekick in Spider-Man (2022) drew harsh criticism, as Spider-Man was introduced as a teenaged superhero in defiance of the sidekick norm. The explanation that Bailey was there all along but was Ret-Gone from history until recently also wrinkled noses. Bailey's spunky personality led these critics to call him annoying, with some believing that he'll be revealed to be a tool of Mephisto. Other readers find Bailey endearing for his youthful excitement and optimism along with his mentor-mentee dynamic with Peter. The Lighter and Softer nature of Bailey's adventures also serves as a palate cleanser for the dreariness of The Amazing Spider-Man (2022).
• The Woobie: Poor Bailey. He's a ten-year-old kid and a Homeless Hero. He's only recently returned from a bout of non-existence and discovers that all traces of his life have vanished from memory and record. This leaves him struggling to rebuild his life and reputation. Despite his efforts, Bailey's venomous fangs quickly get him labeled a monster by the press.