I first came to read Mouse Guard during free comic book day and received this preview copy a while ago and sadly waited until now to read and review it.  I’m an idiot for not treating myself earlier to Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard #1.

The first issue is three tales woven to clear a bar tab.  All three are excellent and entertaining.  The first focuses on the mice coming together for their freedom, the second about the bravery of a mouse and third a mouse’s fate.

Written and illustrated by Jeremy Bastian, Ted Naifeh, David Petersen and Alex Sheikman the first issue is fantastic and a definite must read for adults and kids alike.

Inside the June Alley Inn, located in the western mouse city of Barkstone, mice gather to tell tales, each trying to outdo the other. A competition, of sorts, begins. The game: Tell the best story, get your bar tab cleared! The rules: Every story must contain one truth, one lie and have never been told in that tavern before. Legends of the Guard is a new Mouse Guard anthology series featuring the work of artists and storytellers handpicked by series creator David Petersen. Featured in this issue are stories by Jeremy Bastian (Cursed Pirate Girl), Alex Sheikman (Robotika) and Ted Naifeh (Courtney Crumrin and the Night Things).

Check out the full review below.

Plot: The three tales are entertaining.  You can take them as simple tales or lessons to head, either way they are something both adults and children will appreciate.  I can find any fault at all with any of them.  Rating: 10

Art: The books is beautiful.  The art is unlike anything else out there and just is such a pleasure to look at.  You’ll find yourself lingering on each page well after you’ve finished with the words.  Rating: 10

Overall: A perfect 10 here is rare but this issue deserves it.  The art and story are fantastic and beautiful.  It’s a rare comic both adults and children will enjoy and one with such high morals.  It’s truly a family book that you can share and smile that you can.  An absolute must read.  Overall rating: 10

Recommendation: Buy

Page count: 24 pages    Price: $3.50     Release: Wednesday 6/3/2010

Archaia provided Graphic Policy with an advance copy of this issue for FREE for review.