Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War: The Cosmic Quest Volume 1: Beginning by Brandon T. Snider is a fresh perspective on the Marvel Cinematic Universe leading into Avengers: Infinity War. This book re-examines key moments in the MCU while adding some extra context, making it a perfect refresher.
A threat has emerged from the cosmos: Thanos. A ruthless warlord who plans to collect all six Infinity Stones. Joined by his formidable allies, he will be near-unstoppable at achieving his goal. The Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange and Spider-Man must join forces and fight side by side to stop Thanos, while the fate of the Earth and the universe lays in the balance.
This book features the stories of three of the six Stones as The Collector recovers from his run in with the Guardians of the Galaxy. Desperate to repopulate his vast collection of curios, he must contend with his brother, The Grandmaster, who comes to him after facing Thor and the Hulk. The pair squares off in a night of one-upmanship and speculate on the only things in the universe that would return The Collector to his former glory–the Infinity Stones.
It’s always a pleasure revisiting characters like The Grandmaster and The Collector. These two siblings give us the unique opportunity to recap the MCU for those looking to dive into Avengers: Infinity War, all without having to rewatch those films featuring infinity stones (although watching them is also recommended). The retelling serves as both a nostalgic look back at the pivotal moments and a perfect setup to the monumental film that is Infinity War.
I have always had an affinity for the MCU’s portrayal of Taneleer Tivan (The Collector) and En Dwi Gast (The Grandmaster). Each character brings their own eccentricities to the table, perfectly brought to life on screen by the wonderful Benicio Del Toro and Jeff Goldblum. While The Collector does not have a ton of screen time, he’s been intricately woven into key MCU moments. On the other side, The Grandmaster’s larger-than-life presence left an indelible mark from his time on the big screen during Thor: Ragnarok. Their sibling rivalry, full of comedic tension, shines brightly in The Cosmic Quest, making it a great place for an expansive recap.
Having read the print edition as well as listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Tom Taylorson, I can honestly say the experience of listening is as close to as hearing the voices of Del Toro and Goldblum reprise their roles. Taylorson’s ability to channel both those talent actors’ distinct quirks and cadences is remarkable. Tom brings the story to life in a way that feels both familiar and refreshing.
The Cosmic Quest Volume 1: Beginning by Brandon T. Snider is a wonderful way to catch up on the Infinity Saga before rewatching Avengers: Infinity War. Using dynamic siblings and their rivalry, Snider takes us on a delightful, informative adventure through the vast MCU. Any fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe preparing for a rewatch should read this book–as well as watch the films.
Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War: The Cosmic Quest Volume 1: Beginning is available at bookstores everywhere from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
