Still on the Shelf #6 - Usagi Yojimbo

Originally published April 29nd, 2003 on www.ComiXtreme.com. This work is, of course, © Craig Reade.

Overview-

If you like samurai rodentia, Usagi Yojimbo is the book for you.

My first exposure to this character, as I am sure it was for many of you, was in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon during the late 80’s. However, the character of Miyamoto Usagi (initially based on the 17th century samurai Miyamoto Musashi) has been around since the early Eighties. Granted, this version of Usagi is very much out of time, but it does give you a good idea of who this character is.

Usagi is a rabbit ronin (a samurai without a master) who roams the land of Feudal Japan at the time of the Shogunate. With the land under a single ruler, the importance of the samurai has been diminished. With no wars to fight or masters to serve, Usagi wanders Japan on a quest of enlightenment. Often, he is seen with his nephew Jotaro, who he serves as mentor and teacher. The comic is currently drawn in black and white, and put out by Dark Horse Comics. Stan Sakai, who created the character, has written and illustrated the title since the beginning.

Thoughts-

One of the most impressive things about this title is the coherent story. Sakai is obviously well versed in Japanese culture and history, and his wealth of knowledge and research is plain by reading the story. In addition, he shows great skill in sacrificing authenticity in favor of artistic license, when it serves the purpose of the tale. Anyone who has read and enjoyed James Clavell’s Shogun will love what this comic has to offer.

The art is not spectacular, nor is it meant to be. And while there are some light elements of humor, it is certainly not the focus of the title. Fans of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles might expect similar comedic content (after all, what is funnier than animals that can use martial arts?), but Usagi Yojimbo does not, in any way, rely on laughs.

I picked up a copy of #64 and #65, and enjoyed both of them. Each of these issues stood alone, and both would be excellent points for a new reader to jump into the story.

Bottom Line-

This title is a reader’s comic. Stan Sakai storytelling style sucks you right in, and his art does nothing more than enhance the tale.

I have nothing but praise for Usagi Yojimbo. The only drawback to this title may be the $2.99 cover price, since the art is in black and white. However, with 24 pages, and absolutely zero ads, you will get your money’s worth.

Usagi Yojimbo #66 is due out May 28th, and #67 will be out June 25th. This title comes out 9 times a year, so if you get hooked, keep that in mind. There are also several Trade Paperbacks of past issues available. If you are looking to add a new issue to your subscriptions, this is a good place to start. Usagiyojimbo.com, the official Usagi Yojimbo website, is a great place to start if you want more information about this great comic.

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