TMNT Volumes 1 & 2 REVIEW

TMNT Volumes 1 & 2 REVIEW

Donte Drew, Staff Reporter

VOLUME ONE
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Volume 1 is the original comic book series created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird that launched the TMNT franchise. Published by Mirage Studios in the 1980s, the series follows the adventures of four mutated turtles named after Renaissance artists – Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael – who are trained by their rat sensei, Splinter, to fight crime in the streets of New York City.

The first volume of TMNT is a gritty and violent comic book that takes a darker approach to the characters compared to the more kid-friendly adaptations that would follow. The art style is simple yet effective, with black-and-white illustrations that capture the raw energy of the action scenes. 

Despite its initial cult following, the series would go on to become a massive cultural phenomenon, spawning countless adaptations in film, television, and merchandise. The original TMNT comics remain a beloved part of the franchise’s history and are a must-read for fans of the turtles and comic book enthusiasts alike. I loved reading this book because of the action and the story of the turtles. It was fun, and the mix of dark and comedic scenes kept me engaged throughout.

VOLUME TWO
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Volume 2, published by Mirage Studios in the 1990s, continues the adventures of the four turtles and their rat sensei Splinter as they battle new enemies and face old foes. This volume features a more complex storyline and character development, with the turtles questioning their purpose and struggling with their identities.

The art style continues to be simple yet effective, with detailed illustrations that showcase the action scenes and emotional moments. The addition of new characters, such as the supporting character Casey Jones and the vigilante Nobody adds depth to the story and creates new dynamics among the group.

Overall, TMNT Volume 2 is a great continuation of the original series, building upon the foundation laid in Volume 1 while exploring new themes and introducing new elements to the TMNT universe. As a fan of the turtles and a comic book enthusiast, I enjoyed this compelling and entertaining series. I particularly liked how it developed the turtles and progressed the story.