Usagi Yojimbo...know him?

[Sundancer]

It was one those comics I always saw at the library. Bored, I checked it out.

Loved it. Got the first 20 graphic novels. Even used a volume when I was teaching English in Japan.

I think a lot of people are misconstrued because the comic is anthropomorphic.

Stan Saki, or "the other Stan," is so talented. He's been doing Usagi by himself--stories, ink etc.--for over 20 years.

What's awesome is the awards he won, which is why you may find it at your library. Stan adds footnotes based on actual Japanese legends and history, and sometimes adds a biography.

Anyone else at least give it a try?

 

[Mace Dolex]

I think most of us know him more of his association with TMNT.

 

[Max J Power]

I read volume 12 (it was the oldest one my library had) and liked it a lot. I'll probably buy the hardcover of the Fantagraphics run when it comes out.

 

[Andy C.]

Usagi Yojimbo was greatness. Very Kurosawa-ish.

 

[Sundancer]

Huh. He even had his own C64 game


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_a4Ap_Mw9Q

 

[cthulhu]

Yeah big fan of Usagi - been getting it since the start of the Dark Horse run and have gathered up the trades to have a complete collection now. Love the art and the storytelling I think the way Sakai builds a story never gets boring and is an excellent example of how to have a character that essentialy doesnt change exist in a well realised world filled with interesting characters. The story progression feels very organic and I think the art is fantastic.
Its really a unique title and a joy to read with some gems about japanese culture and folklore. The supporting cast is great and Jei is a great nemesis. t:

 

[Obi-Ron]

Stan Sakai is one of my all-time favorite cartoonists. Comic shops tend to lump Usagi in with the manga titles, but it's really not.

 

[Ponyboy]

I think most of us know him more of his association with TMNT.

That's just kinda sad. Sakai's original works are beautiful. Check out his first 6 volumes. I think there's even been a HC re-release of some of his early stuff.


*edit... Yep!

http://www.amazon.com/Usagi-Yojimbo-Special/dp/160699154X

 

[SuperFerret]

Yeah, it's sad that the character is known to many above the age of 20. Usagi should've just wallowed in the depths of obscurity forever.

 

[Ponyboy]

What I meant by that was that Usagi's best "stuff" is outside of TMNT, so to only be familiar with Usagi in that manner is sad. Wisearse.

 

[SuperFerret]

Yes, but to seek out Usagi's best stuff, one would need to know of him. It's not like someone will go "Y'know, I feel like reading about a rabbit samurai. I wonder if anyone's made something like that."

 

[Ponyboy]

Mmm. Indeed. Good point. I stand corrected.