Mouse Guard #2 Review

The greatness of David Petersen's Mouse Guard #1 (see here for a refresher course) was such that he left #2 with such a high standard, that it would be extremely difficult for #2 to possibly live up to it.

Luckily, while #1 was still probably the superior comic, #2 is an excellent comic book in its own right.

As with #1, Petersen's amazing art is a given. Lush and textured, while never losing the effect of motion (which can happen with extremely lush drawings sometimes), it is a marvel to behold. Yes, I used the phrase "a marvel to behold." You got a problem with that?!?!

The plot involves an agent of the Mouse Guard sent to check up on an older member of the Guard, who has not responded for far too long. The mystery around his seeming disappearance is tied directly to the reveal last issue that the merchant killed by the snake in #1 was part of a traitorous plot.

The bad guys are employing some killer crabs, and the fight scene is a spectacular spectacle.

The only thing keeping it a bit down from #1, in my book, is that I think #1 had a bit more story to it, and I think Conrad's methods were a bit too weird. Also, the convenience of the timing was a bit suspect. Conrad gets a real break in his investigation JUST as Sadie arrives?

That's all minor stuff, though. #2 is still a very good comic book, with an interesting story that both continues the overarching storyline while providing a clear "done in one" story as well. Also, Petersen's art is amazing, as usual. So recommended, without reservation (not being as awesoem as #1 doesn't count as a reservation!).

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