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I have enjoyed the work of artist Stan Sakai for many years, introduced through - of all places - his work lettering the Sergio Aragones comic, Groo the Wanderer. I've been following Mr. Sakai on Facebook for about a year or so now, and for several months, he's been previewing pages for the 47 Ronin graphic novel. Once it released, I had to swing by our local comic shop and pick up a copy.
The story for this volume was written by Mike Richardson, with Kazuo Koike serving as Editorial Consultant. It should be mentioned early in this review that this graphic novel is NOT a tie-in with the recent movie of the same name (the movie was "inspired" by the historic story of the 47 Ronin, and shares numerous elements with the historical accounts, but is as much a telling of the real story as "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" is a true biography). The story, as written by Richardson and illustrated by Sakai, is based, as much as possible, on the actual story from Japan's history.
I will leave the details of the story to those who plan to read it, but suffice it to say, you won't find fantastic sorcery in this volume. What you will find is a story of political intrigue, honor, and devotion to duty. You will find 133 pages of beautifully illustrated story, reflecting the actual culture and look of 18th Century Japan. You will find insights into what it meant to be Samurai.
If there is a downside to the story, it is that it is true to real life. As with any historical fiction that strives to remain true to the source events, the writers cannot introduce the Deus ex Machina into the plot, in order to avert some tragic outcome. The account includes a number of sad occurrences, and neither the writers nor the readers are offered a convenient escape from these details. Yet, it is that real life poignancy that has given this tale its power over the years. It isn't just the tragedy that carries the plot, but the human response to the tragedies.
Rounding out the volume are a gallery of cover designs done by Stan Sakai, historical prints depicting scenes from the story, and background on the creation of the graphic novel.
While there are a few mature scenes in the story, they are tastefully handled by the script and the art, keeping this volume acceptable to readers of all ages. The narrative is carried by the power of the characters and the story, rather than by graphic depictions of violence or sexuality. While fighting is an element in the plot, it is not the whole story, nor the overriding theme.
I recommend this book for anyone with an interest in feudal Japan, and my advice is to read this graphic novel before taking the time to research the known history of the 47 Ronin. Let the novel carry you along to the ending, and then take the time to appreciate how well this account follows the known details.
Whatever you do, don't buy this book, stick it in a bag, and keep it pristine. Read it. Appreciate it. Enjoy it. If you want one to stay mint for collector value, buy a second one, but don't miss reading this novel. As the tag line on the back cover says, "To know this story is to know Japan."
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