Aaron's Comic Review: MOUSE GUARD: THE BLACK AXE #2

The Mouse Guard takes to the sea in Mouse Guard: The Black Axe #2 from David Petersen and Archaia Comics. Continuing the events of the excellent first issue, #2 takes our hero Celanawe on a journey across the sea to continue the quest for The Black Axe. Writer/artist David Petersen does an excellent job of conveying the long, arduous journey of dangerous sea travel, keeping us informed on the progress of our adventurers using Celanawe’s journal.

The journal is a fantastic narrative choice by Petersen as it evokes the sense of loneliness in the vastness of the sea. While showing us the trials and tribulations of sea voyage for Mice, Petersen also gives us some back story about The Black Axe, and why Celanawe and Em are on this perilous quest. At some points it seems like nothing is really happening, but upon further reflection this issue has a lot going on without being frantic at all.

This issue may not be the best jumping on point for readers, due to its slow pace, but as is the case with any great fantasy tale, they must not be rushed. A good fantasy tale is like a fine wine, they must be given time to mature, and Petersen is doing an excellent job of pacing this adventure. The journey over the sea is a long, tiring one, and Petersen conveys this feeling masterfully. His art and phrasing are both subdued and keeping in perfect tone with his subject.

This series & issue in particular is a great read for any fantasy fans looking for a solid adventure story with great art.

For those looking to get into what is shaping up to be an excellent mini-series, there will also be a gratis Mouse Guard offering as part of the Free Comic Book Day festivities at your local comic shop.

MOUSE GUARD: THE BLACK AXE #2 (OF 6)
Retail Price: $3.50 U.S.
Page Count: 24 pages
Format: saddle bound, 8” x 8”, full color
On-sale Date: May 4, 2011
Written by David Petersen
Illustrated by David Petersen
Cover by David Petersen

Click HERE to read a 6 page preview of the issue.