My Little Pony Twilight Sparkle #1
Story, Art, & Letters by Thomas Zahler
Colors by Ronda Pattison
Edited by Bobby Curnow
Reviewed by Steve Seigh
If you would have told me about four months ago that I’d be skipping (not really) to the comic book store, in anticipation of purchasing the next My Little Pony comic book, I would have most certainly called you a liar. I would insisted that even though I’m a huge animation enthusiast and columnist that My Little Pony just wouldn’t be my bag. Though, here I am, in my pajamas, and a big grin stretched across my face, as I turn the pages of the first issue of the My Little Pony Micorseries featuring Twilight Sparkle #1 by Love and Capes scribe Thomas Zahler.
I’m happy to say that while this particular issue of the Pony series is far more compartmentalized than its larger sister-series Friendship is Magic, that Zahler doesn’t miss a hoof beat in what makes these comics such a joy to read. All of the ingredients for a fun and fanciful story built on the foundations of friendship and lessons learned is all here in this issue. For me, personally, it was really exciting to see Zahler’s work outside of his acclaimed Love and Capes series. It was kind of a “let’s see what else you’ve got” sort of moment, and he nailed it. It’s not always the easiest thing to come into an already established series and have your contribution fit so well within the constructs of what’s already been established. But if this is any indication as to the direction and quality that these microseries books will provide than we are all in for a treat.
So I’ve talked about the writing quite a bit, but was also fairly surprised to learnt that Zahler would be providing the art as well.Doing away with the thick black, fine line work of the Friendship is Magic series, Zahler has given the book a bit more of a light-handed approach that feels right at home within the land of Equestria. I absolutely loved recognizing his signature style that I’ve become so found of while reading Love and Capes and was overjoyed to see that it works for MLP just as well. Add to this the bright color palette used by Ronda Pattison and you’ve got another MLP book to add to your comic collection that is fun, heart-warming, and filled with laughs.
Verdict:
A must buy for anyone who is a fan of the My Little Pony franchise. It’s amazing the way this franchise has come back and made a name for itself in the past year or so. Thomas Zahler has certainly earned his cutie mark in quality MLP comic book making with this issue and I implore everypony to go and check it out. Even if you’re one of those who believes they would never get on board the My Little Pony train, give this book a shot, I think you’ll find yourself to be pleasantly surprised.
* This review was written while listening to the album Kitsune by the band Marriages.
