Legends of Oz : The Scarecrow

The first in the collection of planned character studies and standalone vignettes, The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow is a two issue miniseries devoted to everyone’s favorite mysterious sidekick. Join Big Dog Ink and writer Pat Shand as we delve deeper into the origins of the quirky Scarecrow who’s out to prove that just because she’s a mysterious puppet created by evil magic, it doesn’t mean she can’t be pure good!

It’s not Kansas anymore, although it certainly feels more like it than the classic Oz did.  Regardless of where it really takes place, this Legend of Oz: Scarecrow mini still has the same wonderful mystique of the story we all know so well.  If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading any of BDI’s twist on Oz, this is a great place to start.

With writer Pat Shand at the helm, we get a wonderful little story that is paced just right for the two issues it was set in.  Whether or not you have actually read Wicked West, you’ll get to enjoy some fun insight into the history of our adorable Scarecrow.  Odds are if you haven’t though, this well written pair of books will wet your whistle enough to make you seek out the rest of the series.

Even having provided such good writing, that could only go so far considering our leading lady can’t talk.  It says a lot about how successful the art is when a mute character can speak volumes with just her body language.  By the end of the story, you’ll be pleased with the job Carlos Rena did in portraying everything the Scarecrow “said” to people.

Although this mini-series can easily stand on its own, you’re not going to want to stop with just these two books.  Taking a classic like Oz and doing it right is risky, but the folks at BDI pull if off oh so well.  Do yourself a big favor and grab The Scarecrow and then check out the rest!

For more information on The Scarecrow or other Big Dog Ink titles, check out Big Dog Ink.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are 100% those of the individual reviewer.