The Good
Picture The Jean Grey School for Higher Learning. Now replace those mutants with the kids of assassins and you've got the School of Five Weapons. Written and illustrated by Jimmie Robinson, the man has done a brilliant job creating a world that I have already fallen in love with.
The reason it's called the School of Five Weapons is because they have five clubs, each focused on mastering a different weapon (knives, staves, archery, guns, exotic). Robinson has done terrific work filling each club with a student President and teacher that I immediately want to know more about. Don't let this concept fool you, though... this isn't a bloody or violent book by any means. It's clearly geared towards a wider audience, and considering the high quality of the series thus far, there's nothing wrong with that at all.
Tyler Shainline is the son of a legendary hitman -- so legendary, in fact, that no one even apparently knows what the man looks like. This book tells the story of his first day at the school and once they hear he's a Shainline, every club immediately tries to win him over, and each brings a hilariously unique personality to the table. Tyler's a great protagonist. He's likable, sharp and a character you'll absolutely emphasize with. But it's not just the students or teachers that'll get hold of your interest. Small steps have been taken to fill this school with so much life (even the nurse will grab your intrigue) and there's never an uninteresting moment.
The script itself is sharp and hilarious. Not a moment went by where I wasn't completely engrossed in this world, smiling or even laughing. As if that wasn't impressive enough, there's also a very solid twist thrown into the mix. If all of this is already packed into the first issue, then I can't wait to see what's in store for us with the next four. The visuals are every bit as enjoyable as the script, too. There's some creative use of panels and the slightly cartoonish and colorful feel brings the pages to life. It's a perfect compliment to the lighthearted and fun vibe the book offers.
The Bad
Honestly, I have no major complaints here.
The Verdict
Jimmie Robinson has done a wonderful job crafting an energetic and entertaining world for us to venture into. There's plenty of fun to be had as we learn the basics and there's more than enough intrigue filling these pages to have me thrilled for the next issue. Go ahead, give this issue an honest shot and it just may be the reading highlight of your week.