by Matt Sernaker, Editor-In-Chief

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles renaissance continues! Leonardo takes the spotlight in this next chapter, as “Return to New York” continues in a story by Jason Aaron, art by Cliff Chiang, and letters by Shawn Lee. The first two issues have been incredible, so does the winning streak continue for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3? Order your pizzas and let’s find out.

Official Synopsis:
Leonardo is traveling the world in search of peace. All the adventures—good and bad—he’s had with his brothers have taken their toll, and he is seeking a new way to exist, leaving the life of New York far behind. On the banks of the Ganges, he has found a turtle colony that shows him a simpler way to be, but even these turtles have their foes. Leo can fend off the poachers easily, protecting his temporary home, but what will he do when a deadlier enemy comes searching for him?

Continuing this new run of stories by legendary comics scribe Jason Aaron (The Mighty Thor, Batman: Off-World), each of these first four issues focus on one Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. In the Leonardo issue, Jason is matched with fan-favorite artist Cliff Chiang (Paper Girls, Catwoman: Lonely City), whose unique style is a perfect match for this unique TMNT story!

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I’m going to keep it extremely minimal on story details, because you have to read Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 for yourself. This is one of the best TMNT issues that I’ve ever read, and quite possibly, my favorite issue of the year. You will be hooked by the end of the first page.

Leo is having a rough time since leaving New York, and it’s very apparent that this is going to be a very different TMNT story. As our favorite turtle seeks redemption in the most interesting of places, his journey of enlightenment will take readers along for a pretty interesting ride. There’s a gorgeous 6-panel sequence a few pages in, and it is amazing how much silence can say about a hero’s journey. As if that wasn’t enough, just a few pages later, Leo’s choices play out in a stunning fashion. Then the hits keep on coming, and you get ANOTHER jaw-dropping page.

Long story short, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 is an amazing book. It captures everything great about TMNT, and takes full advantage of the comic book medium to tell a captivating tale.

Rating:
ComicsOnline gives Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 – 5 out of 5 issues worthy of an Eisner Award. I’m calling it now. Turtle Power!

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