Since 1984, Stan Sakai has written all kinds of Usagi Yojimbo stories, from crossovers to multi-year blockbusters, but this time he’s heading into space. At first it was a concept that seemed crazy to me, but given the nature of Yojimbo’s story and the fact that Star Wars is a samurai story, I say, why not? After reading the first issue, it’s clear that Sakai hasn’t lost any of the series’ childish charm while delivering great science fiction.
The beginning of Space Rabbit: White Star Rising #1 may be my favorite part. The issue begins with a four-page backstory about the space turtles. This concept is pretty cool and follows the pattern of how sea turtles move and even breathe air. Rather than swimming through the ocean and rising in search of oxygen, they simply go to oxygen-rich planets to gulp air. The opening, which is told like a fable, expands your imagination.
It also serves as a nice transition from an organic space turtle to a spaceship made of space turtles. Like Star Wars: A New Hope, it begins with a ship under attack where the enemy demands a code. The attack ends in tragedy, and the story naturally moves to another character who has a strong bond with one of the people on the destroyed ship. Overall, the story flows well from scene to scene.
I love this opening.
Credit: Dark Horse
Somewhat surprisingly, the Space Rabbit doesn’t appear until halfway through the book. His introduction is strong, his first scene set on a desert planet with all kinds of creatures different from Tatooine. He is soon tied up in a gladiator pit and fighting a giant alien. Usagi uses his blaster to launch a daring pre-emptive attack on the threatening alien, but he quickly draws his sword.
When things get bad, especially when Usagi gets off the desert planet, the story goes into exposition mode. It gives Sai’s character a backstory, but it’s a bit forced. This scene features a decent motley crew, and it should be fun to follow them on their big heist mission.
A backup version of “Akemi and the Secret Invasion” is also included. Even if it’s not obvious, this series is aimed at children, and this story makes that very clear. Akemi explores an oxygen-rich planet with cute little creatures that eat beans and pass gas. The gags are cute and make kids laugh, but it’s a multi-part story and I’m very interested in seeing how the farts lead to space support technology.
The story of Space Rabbit White Star Rising is pretty standard, but you’ll be captivated by Sakai-sensei’s amazing art and charming characters. The gorgeous art and sci-fi ideas work well in the world of Usagi Yojimbo.
“Space Rabbit: White Star Rising” #1 reveals the sci-fi side of samurai
Space Rabbit White Star Rising #1
The story of Space Rabbit White Star Rising is pretty standard, but you’ll be captivated by Sakai-sensei’s amazing art and charming characters. The gorgeous art and sci-fi ideas work well in the world of Usagi Yojimbo.
The turtle traveling through space in the opening scene is smart and beautiful.
Sakai tries again with art and lettering
Pretty standard elements when it comes to big missions and some sci-fi tropes
