Originally published in 2001 as volume 4 of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, IDW is now reprinting all 32 issues of the series starting here with #1. Written and inked by Peter Laird with Jim Lawson pencils, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Journeys really exemplifies the early Mirage Studios style that made the Ninja Turtles a worldwide phenomenon. Having never read any of this volume previously, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but there’s definitely a lot here for fans of those early Turtles tales. Since this issue has technically been out for 24 years, the following review will be a little more spoiler heavy than usual, so readers beware.
Courtesy: IDW
The Story
Coming in at 32 pages, there’s plenty here to sink your teeth into. The plot is divided into three main sub-plots. The issue opens with a robot exploring the moon and talking to an Utrom. They are in the midst of constructing an extremely large structure on the moon, but it’s unclear what the purpose is. I found this subplot to be very intriguing, the Utroms are a fascinating group of characters and you really never know what kind of sci-fi hijinks they might have in store for the Earth. Next we join the Turtles in a familiar situation, cornered in a dark alley by a gang called the Madhattan Maulitia. It’s been 15 years since we last saw them and even though they’re older, they still have the same wit and youthful way about them that long time fans will recognize immediately.
It really should go without saying as he is one of the original creators, but Laird really nails each Turtle and their distinct personalities. Leonardo narrates this section, forming quick decisive plans and leading his brothers through battle. Raphael is always eager to continue the fight, Michelangelo is of course making plenty of jokes while Donatello remains the smartest turtle in the room, going as far as paraphrasing Archimedes at one point. There’s some interesting escapades and a couple twists that leave the reader wanting more and definitely looking forward to the next issue. The final few pages of the issue catches us up on some of the other supporting characters that fans are familiar with. April and Casey are married and expecting a baby, while Shadow, Casey’s adopted teenage daughter, is training with master Splinter and Metalhead in Northampton. Laird does exactly what you want a first issue to do. We have a satisfying story, but are also introduced to several ongoing plot points that will bring us back for the next installment.
Courtesy: IDW
The Art
Though originally published in 2001, Lawson’s art is evocative of the 1980s independent black and white comic books that defined a generation of readers. The heavy use of black ink, cross-hatching, and stippling creates a gritty, urban mood. There’s lots of dynamic action, the Turtles are constantly in motion, flipping, leaping and crashing into enemies. Lawson uses exaggerated body angles and mid-air poses to show impact. The alleyways, dumpster, brick textures and rooftops reinforce the TMNT’s street-level, grimy New York roots. Lawson successfully captures the essence of early TMNT: raw indie art, kinetic fight scenes, and a mix of grim violence with sibling banter. It’s not slick or polished like later TMNT comics, but that’s the point—the roughness adds authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Journeys #1 is a strong start to IDW’s reprint of Volume 4, offering both longtime fans and curious newcomers a taste of Peter Laird’s singular vision for the Turtles in the early 2000s. The blend of classic Mirage grit, Lawson’s raw yet dynamic artwork, and the careful balance of ongoing subplots makes this more than just nostalgia bait, it’s a reminder of why the Turtles resonated so strongly in the first place. While newer readers may find the pacing and art style less polished compared to modern iterations, the charm, character work, and layered storytelling shine through. If this issue is any indication, this reprint series is shaping up to be an essential read for anyone who wants to experience the Turtles at their most authentic.
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