Review: The 47 Ronin Comic Book (By: Stan Sakai and Mike Richardson)

The 47 Ronin, is a book that tells of the epically great stories of the past. One such is the 47 Ronin which is about 47 ex-samurai, who lose their jobs, position, and honor, because their Lord Asano, was killed. In order to redeem themselves and their honor, they need to avenge their leader, by killing the person who framed him. Or forcing him to kill himself through seppuku, or Hara-kiri. (willful suicide was often committed to redeem one's honor due to crimes against them) 

Summary of Beginning part:

It is now the early 18th century and Lord Asano is on his way to Japans capital Kyoto (pre-Tokyo) 

Now, after about 3 weeks, we see Lord Asano talking to his mentor, on customary "gifts" of "thanks". During this event hidden insults thrown at each other, revengeful thoughts were thought of, and life-long grudges created. Asano, refuses. And due to this event, his "mentor" during multiple meetings both private and public (Other Lords, not villagers), decided to "embarrass" or make a mockery of his good-name. He, so angered and utterly out-of-control by such insults withdraws his Katana. (most likely a Shinogi-Zukuri katana) Which broke a well-known law. With the punishment as death... But his mentor, fortunately forgives him. And as he is escorted out of the room, he is thrown an insult of how is nothing but an unsophisticated country man. When he is quite the opposite, a Lord, a powerful one at that. It hurt his pride too much, and he lost all control, forgot all his training, and his purpose of being their, and attacked his "mentor", with a will to kill.

    But he failed. And this time, he isn't lucky. He is given the death sentence, by the shogun (military leader) himself, to die. Not only to die, but to commit seppuku, immediately. And when his people, citizens, farmers, Hatamoto (High-ranking samurai/Bannerman), samurai, and alike, heard the news they were all shocked and curious. And when they heard the news of their great Lord Asano, committing seppuku, immediately, they were prepared to disband. But Lord Asano's good friend and Chamberlain, gathered a small group required to sign a blood oath. Over time, they dwindle. And all of the remaining, loyal enough samurai, amounting to 47, began a plan. A plan to kill his so-called "mentor", Lord Kira Yoshinaka...

Many people know of the 47 Ronin, and I wish to promote it even further, if just a bit. As it is an amazing story and a great comic!

Rating: Different, but in a good way. Both interesting and teaching. It teaches us to serve and be completely devoted and faithful to people.

Age Recommendation: 10+

As long as your child can handle small amounts of blood, little gore, and understand the evilness of bribery, they should be able to read it and enjoy it!