Radically Rearranged Ronin Ragdolls #1 Review: Cat Scratch Fever

By Nolan P. Smith

To coincide with my review of Drawing Blood from Kevin Eastman Studios, get ready for some feline fury as the comic book co-created by fictional character Shane Bookman is now a one-shot in real life! Enter the Radically Rearranged Ronin Ragdolls.

From Kevin Eastman and David Avallone, with art by Kevin Eastman and Troy Little, this is one heck of a one shot. I know this is a homage to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, but man is it enjoyable. Tezuka, Otomo, and Miyazaki are the main characters, the Ragdolls, named after three of the most prominent manga and anime creators in the world, which is fantastic in itself. We jump right into the action as the Ragdolls battle against a gang tied to the death of their father.

Eastman and Little create imagery of fast-paced, sword slashing action, with designs that look amazing. The story works so well; as we get thrown into the action first, then we get a fantastic recap worked into the story beautifully. The pacing, the flow, it all works so nice here, I wish this were an ongoing series.

This story from a story from fictional characters is terrific. I would love to see the story of the Ragdolls continue, as Eastman, Avallone, and Little have created something unique, and something addictive. I want to know where the story goes next for Tezuka, Otomo and Miyazaki, and possibly Kirby. The odes and homages to so many pop culture greats are astonishing and deserves to continue.

Rating: 9.0 out of 10.