Stan Sakai created the character of Usagi, the long-eared Ronin. Does the seventh compilation of his adventures contain as fascinating stories as usual?
Aviation and chanoyu experiments
Miyamoto Usagi is a samurai who lost his master and is now wandering a world reminiscent of Japan. The title I am reviewing is basically the seventh volume about the adventures of this brave rabbit. A lot has happened in the previous parts, but nothing prevents you from starting your adventure with Usagi from this volume. Because we are dealing with stories whose most important link is the main character. What happens in book five? Among the more interesting things, it is worth mentioning, for example, the participation of long-eared ronin in the smearing of medicines for all diseases. The comic book called Samurai for Rent is doing just as well. In it, Usagi escorts an elderly woman, unfortunately the journey with her turns out to be much more tiring than fighting the overwhelming enemy forces. An interesting thread concerns the Japanese Leonardo da Vinci, who constructed the flying equipment. I should also pay special attention to the stories that bring us closer to Japanese customs. This time Stan Sakai presents the custom of brewing tea. In the notes at the end of the volume, we can find information that Stan participated in this traditional rite three times. Therefore, all the more you should appreciate all the details that he transferred to this story.
Treasure of the Mother of the Mountains
The fifth volume of the Saga consists of three notebooks, one of them entitled Treasure of the Mountain Mother is one coherent and long story. It does quite well, although I miss the kind of emotions found in The Circles ( Usagi Yojimbo Beginning, Vol. 2 ). Nevertheless, it presents the story of Tomoe – a supporting heroine, a samurai woman. Quite an intriguing character who, interestingly, rivals Usagi in combat. I also appreciate the cruel antagonist in this notebook. Nevertheless, in this respect there is no big surprise, because you can say a lot of good about the characters in Usagi .
Inspector Ishida
This time, quite a lot of side characters come to the fore. We have, for example, a story about Inspector Ishida’s investigation. A short but extremely addictive criminal case. It is a pity that only one story was devoted to this hero. Nevertheless, Gen also returns with a humorous twist and Kitsune, and this time she is not alone. Besides, these are not the only interesting characters, because we also have an extraordinary inventor or a terribly irritating old lady. It cannot be denied that Stan Sakai creates not only interesting plots, but also colorful characters.
Beautiful Tomoe
As for the release and the graphics, I can basically say the same as mentioned in the previous review. It is a really solid product, and Stan Sakai’s drawings are delightful with their detail. All the frames look brilliant, and the scenes with the spider deserve additional memory. The author created a truly monstrous creature. It should also be emphasized that it skillfully reflects the emotions that accompany our heroes.
There are some interesting additions to this volume. We can, for example, compare how the author’s line has changed. There are two versions of the story, The Tale of Tomoe, in the volume . In addition, at the end we find a gallery of covers and a few facts about the stories presented – great thing! I really have nothing to complain about. I am delighted with this volume, although not all the stories contained here were equally brilliant – Usagi Yojimbo fares a bit better in this respect . Beginning of bar 2 .
Is it worth getting to know Usagi’s adventures?
I will put it briefly – yes and yes again! No matter which volume, it is worth reaching for any, because they are universal stories. Stan Sakai has created a timeless piece. It is a gem in every way. All the components on which this comic can be laid out sparkle, and when put together they form a cut diamond. I will not hide that for me Usagi Yojimbo is one of the best series I have had the pleasure to read. Therefore, it is difficult for me to write this review, because I still have the feeling that Usagi deserves more than these dozen sentences full of praise. However, it’s best to see for yourself how valuable this comic is. I wholeheartedly recommend the adventure of a long-eared Ronin!
