Comic Book Review - Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver

Rob reviews Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver...

Before I continue this review I have a confession. This is the first time I've delved into the world of Mouse Guard! What makes it worse is that after some research I found out that David Petersen has been writing these incredible tales since 2006! Thankfully reviewing Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver has opened my eyes to the medieval world of the Mouse Guard and I'm fully invested in finding out more of Petersen's world. 

First of all, let's mention the artwork. When BOOM! Studios first published the preview pages to Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver I was immediately impressed by the art on display. To then find out that this is all been drawn and coloured by Petersen is just amazing. There's so much detail packed into every page that not only moves the story along, it also complete immerses you into this world. Each of the three featured short stories all have a distinct feel to them that tell their own story in a close intimate way.

It's clear to see that Petersen has a real love for his creation and everything is drawn with great care and attention. Each character has minute details that add plenty of character. The scars on Bastian from The Wild Wolf for example show a seasoned warrior who's had his fair share of adventures aside from the one in this book. 

In terms of writing each short story tackles a different subject - end of life care of a loved one, learning of different languages and cultures, and the risks of putting yourself into unnecessary danger. It's not until the very end that we get an afterword where Petersen explains his thoughts for each story. Reading about the background to The Owlhen Caregiver tugged on my heartstrings. To read that the writers own experiences shaped this tale hit home. To draw on our own life experiences can be tough at the best of times but Petersen takes this and tells a slow and intimate tale of compassion and love. 

Overall Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver is a comic book that needs to be read. It's a great comic that explores what it means to care for others whether that be through looking out for someone's wellbeing, to giving them a dignified end to their life. Each story is gingerly told through the writers own experiences and it's backed up by plenty of gorgeous illustrations. If you read one comic this year make sure it's Mouse Guard: The Owlhen Caregiver. You won't be disappointed.

Rating 10/10

Rob Lake - For more comic book and video game chat why not follow Geek Culture Reviews on Twitter and Facebook @GeekCultureRev