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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2024)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol. 1: Return to New York
The TMNT are back in this new series that provides a perfect jumping-on point for new fans!
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have all left New York to pursue their own interests, but gathering forces will pull them back together in this first arc of a new ongoing series that collects the prelude story "Long Way From Home" and issues #1–6 by superstar writer Jason Aaron and an all-star lineup of artists, including Joëlle Jones, Rafael Albuquerque, Cliff Chiang, Chris Burnham, Darick Robertson, and Juan Ferreyra!
Raphael is in prison. Michelangelo is living in Tokyo, where he’s become a TV star. Leonardo is traveling the world in search of peace. Donatello is trapped in a mutant zoo and forced to fight rich men looking for a thrill. And what has been going on in New York while the Turtles are scattered across the globe?
More than two million Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics have been sold in 2024! Join in on the fun!
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have all left New York to pursue their own interests, but gathering forces will pull them back together in this first arc of a new ongoing series that collects the prelude story "Long Way From Home" and issues #1–6 by superstar writer Jason Aaron and an all-star lineup of artists, including Joëlle Jones, Rafael Albuquerque, Cliff Chiang, Chris Burnham, Darick Robertson, and Juan Ferreyra!
Raphael is in prison. Michelangelo is living in Tokyo, where he’s become a TV star. Leonardo is traveling the world in search of peace. Donatello is trapped in a mutant zoo and forced to fight rich men looking for a thrill. And what has been going on in New York while the Turtles are scattered across the globe?
More than two million Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics have been sold in 2024! Join in on the fun!
176 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2025
22 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Jason Aaron
2,381 books1,689 followersJason Aaron grew up in a small town in Alabama. His cousin, Gustav Hasford, who wrote the semi-autobiographical novel The Short-Timers, on which the feature film Full Metal Jacket was based, was a large influence on Aaron. Aaron decided he wanted to write comics as a child, and though his father was skeptical when Aaron informed him of this aspiration, his mother took Aaron to drug stores, where he would purchase books from spinner racks, some of which he still owns today.
Aaron's career in comics began in 2001 when he won a Marvel Comics talent search contest with an eight-page Wolverine back-up story script. The story, which was published in Wolverine #175 (June 2002), gave him the opportunity to pitch subsequent ideas to editors.
In 2006, Aaron made a blind submission to DC/Vertigo, who published his first major work, the Vietnam War story The Other Side which was nominated for an Eisner Award for Best Miniseries, and which Aaron regards as the "second time" he broke into the industry.
Following this, Vertigo asked him to pitch other ideas, which led to the series Scalped, a creator-owned series set on the fictional Prairie Rose Indian Reservation and published by DC/Vertigo.
In 2007, Aaron wrote Ripclaw: Pilot Season for Top Cow Productions. Later that year, Marvel editor Axel Alonso, who was impressed by The Other Side and Scalped, hired Aaron to write issues of Wolverine, Black Panther and eventually, an extended run on Ghost Rider that began in April 2008. His continued work on Black Panther also included a tie-in to the company-wide crossover storyline along with a "Secret Invasion" with David Lapham in 2009.
In January 2008, he signed an exclusive contract with Marvel, though it would not affect his work on Scalped. Later that July, he wrote the Penguin issue of The Joker's Asylum.
After a 4-issue stint on Wolverine in 2007, Aaron returned to the character with the ongoing series Wolverine: Weapon X, launched to coincide with the feature film X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Aaron commented, "With Wolverine: Weapon X we'll be trying to mix things up like that from arc to arc, so the first arc is a typical sort of black ops story but the second arc will jump right into the middle of a completely different genre," In 2010, the series was relaunched once again as simply Wolverine. He followed this with his current run on Thor: God of Thunder.
Aaron's career in comics began in 2001 when he won a Marvel Comics talent search contest with an eight-page Wolverine back-up story script. The story, which was published in Wolverine #175 (June 2002), gave him the opportunity to pitch subsequent ideas to editors.
In 2006, Aaron made a blind submission to DC/Vertigo, who published his first major work, the Vietnam War story The Other Side which was nominated for an Eisner Award for Best Miniseries, and which Aaron regards as the "second time" he broke into the industry.
Following this, Vertigo asked him to pitch other ideas, which led to the series Scalped, a creator-owned series set on the fictional Prairie Rose Indian Reservation and published by DC/Vertigo.
In 2007, Aaron wrote Ripclaw: Pilot Season for Top Cow Productions. Later that year, Marvel editor Axel Alonso, who was impressed by The Other Side and Scalped, hired Aaron to write issues of Wolverine, Black Panther and eventually, an extended run on Ghost Rider that began in April 2008. His continued work on Black Panther also included a tie-in to the company-wide crossover storyline along with a "Secret Invasion" with David Lapham in 2009.
In January 2008, he signed an exclusive contract with Marvel, though it would not affect his work on Scalped. Later that July, he wrote the Penguin issue of The Joker's Asylum.
After a 4-issue stint on Wolverine in 2007, Aaron returned to the character with the ongoing series Wolverine: Weapon X, launched to coincide with the feature film X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Aaron commented, "With Wolverine: Weapon X we'll be trying to mix things up like that from arc to arc, so the first arc is a typical sort of black ops story but the second arc will jump right into the middle of a completely different genre," In 2010, the series was relaunched once again as simply Wolverine. He followed this with his current run on Thor: God of Thunder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
March 22, 2025
Been reading these as issues, and it's so freaking good, I asked Netgallery to send me a review copy to re-read and then spread the word.
THIS is a must-read for any TMNT fan, and it’s quickly become one of my personal favorite stories in the series. The character moments in this volume are fantastic, especially the interactions between the brothers when they finally reunite. There’s something special about the dynamic between Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael that truly shines when they’re together, but what makes it even more impactful is the fact that much of this story has them separated.
It seems like it could be a letdown at first, but the separation actually adds so much depth to their relationships. The tension, the unresolved issues between them, and their personal struggles all contribute to a much more satisfying reunion. This messy, complicated family dynamic really enriches the narrative and makes their eventual coming back together all the more rewarding.
Each issue of this volume also stands out with a different artist, which really helps set the tone for each turtle’s individual journey. It’s not just a stylistic choice, it works to highlight the emotional shifts in the story and enhance the reader's connection to each character. This is especially evident in the darker moments, which Return to New York dives into with no hesitation. The story takes a much grimmer turn, particularly for Donatello, and it hits hard. The stakes feel real, and the emotional weight of the narrative leaves a lasting impression. One that honestly blew me away with some of these issues.
If you're a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this is definitely one you won't want to miss. It’s a dark, emotional, and action-packed journey that is one of the finest TMNT stories out there. Highly recommended! Cowabunga dudes!!!!!!
THIS is a must-read for any TMNT fan, and it’s quickly become one of my personal favorite stories in the series. The character moments in this volume are fantastic, especially the interactions between the brothers when they finally reunite. There’s something special about the dynamic between Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael that truly shines when they’re together, but what makes it even more impactful is the fact that much of this story has them separated.
It seems like it could be a letdown at first, but the separation actually adds so much depth to their relationships. The tension, the unresolved issues between them, and their personal struggles all contribute to a much more satisfying reunion. This messy, complicated family dynamic really enriches the narrative and makes their eventual coming back together all the more rewarding.
Each issue of this volume also stands out with a different artist, which really helps set the tone for each turtle’s individual journey. It’s not just a stylistic choice, it works to highlight the emotional shifts in the story and enhance the reader's connection to each character. This is especially evident in the darker moments, which Return to New York dives into with no hesitation. The story takes a much grimmer turn, particularly for Donatello, and it hits hard. The stakes feel real, and the emotional weight of the narrative leaves a lasting impression. One that honestly blew me away with some of these issues.
If you're a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this is definitely one you won't want to miss. It’s a dark, emotional, and action-packed journey that is one of the finest TMNT stories out there. Highly recommended! Cowabunga dudes!!!!!!
November 15, 2025
I love this relaunch. This is a great story with many things still unexplained as yet, and lots of action. I like how each Turtle gets their own story. I also think it was a genius idea to have a different artist work on each turtle's chapter/issue.
The TNMTs have not seen each other in months. The separation has not been good for most of them. Each one has had to follow their solo journey. However, now they have been targeted. Can they come back together? Is the rift between them already pushing them too far apart and are their enemies already too united?
I love that they are allowed to physically fight in this series. I love the differences between them and I am looking forward to their journey during the series. Welcome to the new TMNT universe as a great start, I hope it keeps going. The book finishes with a thumbnail variant cover gallery.
The TNMTs have not seen each other in months. The separation has not been good for most of them. Each one has had to follow their solo journey. However, now they have been targeted. Can they come back together? Is the rift between them already pushing them too far apart and are their enemies already too united?
I love that they are allowed to physically fight in this series. I love the differences between them and I am looking forward to their journey during the series. Welcome to the new TMNT universe as a great start, I hope it keeps going. The book finishes with a thumbnail variant cover gallery.
October 27, 2025
The turtles are back!
August 19, 2025
Holy crap! This is so freaking amazing! I've been reading the IDW TMNT for many years now, and its wonderful to see such amazing talent on the title. While this is a good place for new readers to jump on, I'm glad I am able to see all the context here.
Highlights:
- It has been a certain period of time since the brothers were together and some bad stuff has happened. We don't get all the details, but I'm sure we will eventually.
- Raph is in prison, and gets framed by the Foot for the murder of the warden
- Mikey is a TV star, playing a ninja turtle in Japan. Misses his brothers and is depressed.
- Leo is the most rational of all of them, traveling the world staying peaceful and calm.
- Donnie has it the worst of all of them. Trapped, underfed, and exhausted, he is in a mutant zoo where the rich come to fight.
- Karai has taken the Foot down a dark path (maybe something to do with her glowing eye) and puppet controls the mayor
- When the brothers finally come back together, they are fighting each other often, and on the run
Not sure where this will be going next, but really excited to find out.
Strong recommend. If you aren't reading TMNT, start now.
Highlights:
- It has been a certain period of time since the brothers were together and some bad stuff has happened. We don't get all the details, but I'm sure we will eventually.
- Raph is in prison, and gets framed by the Foot for the murder of the warden
- Mikey is a TV star, playing a ninja turtle in Japan. Misses his brothers and is depressed.
- Leo is the most rational of all of them, traveling the world staying peaceful and calm.
- Donnie has it the worst of all of them. Trapped, underfed, and exhausted, he is in a mutant zoo where the rich come to fight.
- Karai has taken the Foot down a dark path (maybe something to do with her glowing eye) and puppet controls the mayor
- When the brothers finally come back together, they are fighting each other often, and on the run
Not sure where this will be going next, but really excited to find out.
Strong recommend. If you aren't reading TMNT, start now.
June 11, 2025
Many, many thanks to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for allowing me to read this volume in exchange for an honest review!!
Well, here it is: this comic is AWESOME!! Jason Aaron's storytelling is deep and moody. The artwork, provided by a veritable cavalcade (😉) of talented artists, is excellent throughout. Like many kids who grew up in the late '80s and early '90s, I loved the Ninja Turtles. For a decade there, they were ubiquitous. However, I haven't read any of the contemporary TMNT comics before now. I requested permission to read this one because the description said it was a great jumping-on point, which it ABSOLUTELY is. This first volume of this new TMNT series captured my attention and imagination from the first page. I didn't want it to end (which it did, and on a cliffhanger 😱)!!
So, well played, IDW! Now I'm invested in finding out what happens next!
Thanks, again!
Well, here it is: this comic is AWESOME!! Jason Aaron's storytelling is deep and moody. The artwork, provided by a veritable cavalcade (😉) of talented artists, is excellent throughout. Like many kids who grew up in the late '80s and early '90s, I loved the Ninja Turtles. For a decade there, they were ubiquitous. However, I haven't read any of the contemporary TMNT comics before now. I requested permission to read this one because the description said it was a great jumping-on point, which it ABSOLUTELY is. This first volume of this new TMNT series captured my attention and imagination from the first page. I didn't want it to end (which it did, and on a cliffhanger 😱)!!
So, well played, IDW! Now I'm invested in finding out what happens next!
Thanks, again!
June 27, 2025
IDW is known for its licensed comic book adaptations of films, television shows, video games, and cartoons, but none bigger than Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. There has been some great stuff to come out of IDW’s TMNT comics over 14 years, fans were especially excited when it was announced last year that Jason Aaron would be writing the main series.
Please click here for my full review.
Please click here for my full review.
June 29, 2025
Jason Aaron spearheads the soft reset of the IDW published ongoing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. Outside of a few minor references to some moments in the previous run, the relaunch of this series with a new #1 works well enough as a jumping on point for new readers. The sum of what readers need to know before going in is established early on - the Turtles are scattered, Splinter is gone, and they've all left New York City. An undisclosed event that separated the four brothers is part of the mystery to "Return to New York", something that I'm assuming Aaron is building up to. The only other thing a new reader really needs to know is that mutants are well known in this world, so the existence of four giant walking turtles isn't going to rattle the typical bystander in NYC.
The series begins with effectively a series of one-shots, each featuring one of the Turtles (à la the micro-series one-shots of old) drawn by a different artist. This gimmick was probably what intrigued me the most to pick up TMNT again in single issues, since the advertised talent was immense - Joëlle Jones, Rafael Albuquerque, Cliff Chiang and Chris Burnham. Unfortunately, these initial issues felt quite lacking as each one felt like they were building off of overused storytelling tropes surrounding split up teams and internal conflicts where you just know that the team will get back together again quite soon. The stakes felt artificial, since the reader is pretty unaware of why the Turtles split, nor is the reason for their split provided for the reader to really understand the magnitude of the strife amongst the brothers. However, the fourth issue - drawn exceptionally well by Burnham - stars Donatello, and this is where the heart of the concept behind Jason Aaron's run begins to take shape. The subsequent issues, drawn by Darick Robertson and Juan Ferreyra (the main ongoing artist for the series moving forward), further develop the stakes and cement a much more novel set of themes for a TMNT book.
The base premise of this volume is that the Turtles are no longer working together, each finding themselves on journeys of self-discovery in their own fashion. But a recurring common foe leads them all back together and returning to New York, where the recently elected D.A. is leading a tyrannical campaign to round up all mutants. Though the Turtles reunite in the latter half of this volume, they're also far from being a team again. Battling their own internal conflicts alongside a city now hostile towards them, the Turtles have a real challenge on their hands. It's a bit of a conventional setup, one that had me feeling quite tepid towards the run over the initial few issues.
Despite this, the latter half of the "Return to New York" arc is where the series begins to show promise. A huge part of that promise is Juan Ferreyra's artwork which I cannot fawn over any more. A shame that this volume only features a single issue of his work, since I would tell anyone else feeling like the series is lackluster over the first handful of issues to stick it out until Ferreyra joins the book. I've been reading this series in singles, and every month since Ferreyra took over the art duties has been a treat. The current "NYC vs. TMNT" arc (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 - ) has been tremendous, so I'd really just recommend reading this volume so that you can move on to the much greater storyline still ongoing.
The series begins with effectively a series of one-shots, each featuring one of the Turtles (à la the micro-series one-shots of old) drawn by a different artist. This gimmick was probably what intrigued me the most to pick up TMNT again in single issues, since the advertised talent was immense - Joëlle Jones, Rafael Albuquerque, Cliff Chiang and Chris Burnham. Unfortunately, these initial issues felt quite lacking as each one felt like they were building off of overused storytelling tropes surrounding split up teams and internal conflicts where you just know that the team will get back together again quite soon. The stakes felt artificial, since the reader is pretty unaware of why the Turtles split, nor is the reason for their split provided for the reader to really understand the magnitude of the strife amongst the brothers. However, the fourth issue - drawn exceptionally well by Burnham - stars Donatello, and this is where the heart of the concept behind Jason Aaron's run begins to take shape. The subsequent issues, drawn by Darick Robertson and Juan Ferreyra (the main ongoing artist for the series moving forward), further develop the stakes and cement a much more novel set of themes for a TMNT book.
The base premise of this volume is that the Turtles are no longer working together, each finding themselves on journeys of self-discovery in their own fashion. But a recurring common foe leads them all back together and returning to New York, where the recently elected D.A. is leading a tyrannical campaign to round up all mutants. Though the Turtles reunite in the latter half of this volume, they're also far from being a team again. Battling their own internal conflicts alongside a city now hostile towards them, the Turtles have a real challenge on their hands. It's a bit of a conventional setup, one that had me feeling quite tepid towards the run over the initial few issues.
Despite this, the latter half of the "Return to New York" arc is where the series begins to show promise. A huge part of that promise is Juan Ferreyra's artwork which I cannot fawn over any more. A shame that this volume only features a single issue of his work, since I would tell anyone else feeling like the series is lackluster over the first handful of issues to stick it out until Ferreyra joins the book. I've been reading this series in singles, and every month since Ferreyra took over the art duties has been a treat. The current "NYC vs. TMNT" arc (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 - ) has been tremendous, so I'd really just recommend reading this volume so that you can move on to the much greater storyline still ongoing.
October 19, 2025
The Turtles have gone their separate ways, most not for the better, but threats back home may force them back together is this story with great writing and art.
April 8, 2025
This was such a great re-introduction to the Turtles!
They're all split up after the events of the previous run (of which I know nothing, to be honest) and the series begins by showing us what each have been up to. Each has their own chapter, with the eventual reunion coming together as Donnie's position becomes precarious.
I really loved how this was set out, and it was nice for the guys to have their own screen time. It's actually refreshing to see a little hostility - they've all become so focused on their own thing they've forgotten what it means to be brothers.
Artwork is fantastic and complements the story nicely. The turtles each have their own unique look now that kind of reflects what they've been through, and I enjoyed that detail a lot. Poor Donnie!
Overall, this was a really great way to start the new run. I've been reading the monthly singles as well and it's always a long wait for the next month to come along!
Immense fun - TMNT fans should be happy with Aaron's work on this one.
With thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of the collected edition
They're all split up after the events of the previous run (of which I know nothing, to be honest) and the series begins by showing us what each have been up to. Each has their own chapter, with the eventual reunion coming together as Donnie's position becomes precarious.
I really loved how this was set out, and it was nice for the guys to have their own screen time. It's actually refreshing to see a little hostility - they've all become so focused on their own thing they've forgotten what it means to be brothers.
Artwork is fantastic and complements the story nicely. The turtles each have their own unique look now that kind of reflects what they've been through, and I enjoyed that detail a lot. Poor Donnie!
Overall, this was a really great way to start the new run. I've been reading the monthly singles as well and it's always a long wait for the next month to come along!
Immense fun - TMNT fans should be happy with Aaron's work on this one.
With thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of the collected edition
August 5, 2025
Loved the gritty tone, fast pace, and solid storytelling in this volume. The brothers are fractured and healing, and the return to New York hits hard in all the best ways. A great entry into the TMNT universe – sharp, nostalgic, and satisfying (and fab artwork).
June 28, 2025
Donnie... 😭
February 7, 2026
Best volume of TMNT I’ve read in some time, I’m intrigued where they go from here.
March 11, 2026
Really like the tone of this book. Also really like what they are doing with donny.
October 7, 2025
fantastic! I haven't read the previous series that lead up to this but it's all explained well enough. the art is amazing. especially in the final chapter so beautiful! I love donnies story made me have the feels
March 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, IDW Publishing, and Jason Aaron (et. al.) for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to see a new Ninja Turtles graphic novel, especially with a writer I really admire, like Jason Aaron. This Ninja Turtles collection is a new run that follows after the main ending of the original. The Turtles all seem to be doing their own thing, whether imprisoned or making a TV show. When the Foot Clan returns, they seek each other out, knowing they must step up to face the threat.
While I understand that the series was following the different Turtles and showing what they were up to, ultimately bringing them and the story together, it felt rather disjointed at times. My favorite was Donatello's story, actually. He was in this fighting pit for mutant animals and he aimed to keep the other animals safe by being the one to fight. He befriends a rat and calls him Splinter/Father (though it is just a rat). The insanity that he shows demonstrates the harsh life he has lived in the fighting pit for however long. The Turtles reuniting seem like they are just mad at the world and can't deem to find a way to work together anymore. There is a lack of brotherly love that follows the traditional Turtles.
This new series is rather dark and bleak, but it is certainly something fans are sill sure to devour.
I was excited to see a new Ninja Turtles graphic novel, especially with a writer I really admire, like Jason Aaron. This Ninja Turtles collection is a new run that follows after the main ending of the original. The Turtles all seem to be doing their own thing, whether imprisoned or making a TV show. When the Foot Clan returns, they seek each other out, knowing they must step up to face the threat.
While I understand that the series was following the different Turtles and showing what they were up to, ultimately bringing them and the story together, it felt rather disjointed at times. My favorite was Donatello's story, actually. He was in this fighting pit for mutant animals and he aimed to keep the other animals safe by being the one to fight. He befriends a rat and calls him Splinter/Father (though it is just a rat). The insanity that he shows demonstrates the harsh life he has lived in the fighting pit for however long. The Turtles reuniting seem like they are just mad at the world and can't deem to find a way to work together anymore. There is a lack of brotherly love that follows the traditional Turtles.
This new series is rather dark and bleak, but it is certainly something fans are sill sure to devour.
May 24, 2025
Our favourite mutant quartet has broken up, but a new enemy pulls them back together.
It starts with a focus on each individual brother and showing us how they fared after they went their separate ways. As readers, we don't exactly know what happened, but it's pretty clear that whatever went down caused a major rift in their relationships. When they meet up again, tensions run high. I'm completely hooked. The drawing style, combined with the storytelling, pulled me in. This story is dark and grimy. These men have been through it. They're bitter and suffering. Nonetheless, without saying it out loud, they immediately turn to each other and run to eachothers defenses. Sibling relationships can be complex, and I'm very curious to see how they will navigate the emotional divide in their family as the story progresses.
It starts with a focus on each individual brother and showing us how they fared after they went their separate ways. As readers, we don't exactly know what happened, but it's pretty clear that whatever went down caused a major rift in their relationships. When they meet up again, tensions run high. I'm completely hooked. The drawing style, combined with the storytelling, pulled me in. This story is dark and grimy. These men have been through it. They're bitter and suffering. Nonetheless, without saying it out loud, they immediately turn to each other and run to eachothers defenses. Sibling relationships can be complex, and I'm very curious to see how they will navigate the emotional divide in their family as the story progresses.
April 17, 2025
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Return to New York tells the story of the four brothers after they have gone their separate ways for a time.
This series may be starting fresh on the heels of the last run of the book, but I still feel as if I were dropped right into the middle of a bigger story. That kind of threw me for a bit.
Seeing what all the brothers had been up to in the intervening time was pretty interesting. A couple of them definitely went to extremes.
I definitely enjoyed the artwork in this book. It was fluid and dynamic during the action scenes. It also helped to highlight the quieter moments of the book.
In not the biggest TMNT fan in the world, but this was a great start to the new series. I’m pretty sure I’m going to be checking out the next volume.
This series may be starting fresh on the heels of the last run of the book, but I still feel as if I were dropped right into the middle of a bigger story. That kind of threw me for a bit.
Seeing what all the brothers had been up to in the intervening time was pretty interesting. A couple of them definitely went to extremes.
I definitely enjoyed the artwork in this book. It was fluid and dynamic during the action scenes. It also helped to highlight the quieter moments of the book.
In not the biggest TMNT fan in the world, but this was a great start to the new series. I’m pretty sure I’m going to be checking out the next volume.
April 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this new beginning. It starts with a bang, the brothers are separated. Each living different lives and angry about how the other three treated them. Then the Hand drags them all back together and to New York City.
The question is why? Why would the enemies of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles want to unite them and bring them back? Jason Aaron brings a new life and edge to a familiar story.
I’m intrigued to see where this storyline takes us. Each issue has a different artist taking the lead which I enjoy especially as each brother gets his own look and style.
Well worth reading for long time fans and anyone waiting for a good time to give it a try.
I was given a free book for an honest review.
June 14, 2025
This was a great dive back into the world of TMNT for me, I have not read any of the comics before but I think this did a great job of catching us up to where each character is and setting up the story for what this arc will become. I like that the tone of this is a bit darker than I was expecting but it worked so well for the storyline. The art styles featured were also so good and even though they were a tad different from issue to issue it wasn't a jarring difference. The Donnie storyline was so sad though but probably my favorite, though it does feature some backstory that I have not read it still was powerful. Will be looking forward to future volumes!
I received an eARC thanks to Netgalley and IDW Publishing. All opinions are my own.
I received an eARC thanks to Netgalley and IDW Publishing. All opinions are my own.
April 6, 2025
On its way to become the best TMNT run ever.
I love the new direction Jason Aaron is taking the turtles.
They are all grown up and so is their story.
There’s a new villain. Finally. And he looks promising so far.
With the two accompanying runs featuring the wider cast of characters, the main runs focus is solely on the original turtles, which is great.
This is the first comic I’m picking up issue by issue and it’s been a great reading experience so far.
I’m very excited for the next arc.
I love the new direction Jason Aaron is taking the turtles.
They are all grown up and so is their story.
There’s a new villain. Finally. And he looks promising so far.
With the two accompanying runs featuring the wider cast of characters, the main runs focus is solely on the original turtles, which is great.
This is the first comic I’m picking up issue by issue and it’s been a great reading experience so far.
I’m very excited for the next arc.
March 2, 2025
This is such a return to form for turtles comics. Best volume in a while.
Jason Aaron throws the turtles into turmoil and rebuilds them anew from the ground up with some fun new quirks and mania and ends the volume leaving us wanting more. This is the fresh restart I was hoping for.
Jason Aaron throws the turtles into turmoil and rebuilds them anew from the ground up with some fun new quirks and mania and ends the volume leaving us wanting more. This is the fresh restart I was hoping for.
March 19, 2025
Tmnt first 6 issues is some of my favorite storytelling in comics. Read 3 current comic runs from Mr Aaron, my goat. Great time to get into the turtles 🐢 ❤️
December 30, 2025
This was truly amazing, a comic that far exceeded my expectations.
I picked this up as I always loved TMNT as a kid and found myself wanting to reignite that love. You can consider the fire well and truly lit. (I never stopped loving Michael Angelo).
The premise for this comic worked exceptionally and was a great introduction, to start with all 4 turtles separated and in their own predicaments was brilliant. The entire plot worked brilliantly, it was simple enough while also showcasing all of the right things. It also takes place after splinters death when the group is fractured apart. I can't wait for part 2 to drop. Donatello had so much aura here and I now have a new found appreciation for him. Even my usual least favourite Raphael had some great moments and moved himself up in my estimations. Leonardo has always been my second favourite but he had arguably the most underwhelming showing here of the 4, he was still good but his moments felt less meaningful and more forced.
And now, onto my goat, the man, the myth, the legendary Michael Angelo. This comic reminded me why I love the orange turtle so much, and has convinced me to pick up a figure already. I loved the way this story explored his emotions and highlighted the epitome of why Mikey is my goat. Here is a quote from the comic, "When you pick up a pair of nunchuks for the first time, the toughest battle your gonna face...is with yourself. That's the secret of the nunchaku.You gotta be able to beat the living crap outta yourself, day after day. Me? I'm something of a master." "To master the nunchaku, you must learn to take a beating. Whoever you are...you can't possibly beat me up more than I do myself. I obsess over every little thing I've ever said that came out wrong."
'Megastar Michael Angelo'.
I picked this up as I always loved TMNT as a kid and found myself wanting to reignite that love. You can consider the fire well and truly lit. (I never stopped loving Michael Angelo).
The premise for this comic worked exceptionally and was a great introduction, to start with all 4 turtles separated and in their own predicaments was brilliant. The entire plot worked brilliantly, it was simple enough while also showcasing all of the right things. It also takes place after splinters death when the group is fractured apart. I can't wait for part 2 to drop. Donatello had so much aura here and I now have a new found appreciation for him. Even my usual least favourite Raphael had some great moments and moved himself up in my estimations. Leonardo has always been my second favourite but he had arguably the most underwhelming showing here of the 4, he was still good but his moments felt less meaningful and more forced.
And now, onto my goat, the man, the myth, the legendary Michael Angelo. This comic reminded me why I love the orange turtle so much, and has convinced me to pick up a figure already. I loved the way this story explored his emotions and highlighted the epitome of why Mikey is my goat. Here is a quote from the comic, "When you pick up a pair of nunchuks for the first time, the toughest battle your gonna face...is with yourself. That's the secret of the nunchaku.You gotta be able to beat the living crap outta yourself, day after day. Me? I'm something of a master." "To master the nunchaku, you must learn to take a beating. Whoever you are...you can't possibly beat me up more than I do myself. I obsess over every little thing I've ever said that came out wrong."
'Megastar Michael Angelo'.
February 4, 2026
love,love,love this!
good thing i have my comics-obsessed boyfriend, so i can get the chance to read top-tier graphic novels once in a while, in between books.😊
it was absolutely heartbreaking but soo painfully good!
i’ve been a ninja turtle fan since i was like 8 years old, so this really hit the spot! i might actually get into comic books now🤓
really looking forward to see how this story will continue!!🫶🏼
good thing i have my comics-obsessed boyfriend, so i can get the chance to read top-tier graphic novels once in a while, in between books.😊
it was absolutely heartbreaking but soo painfully good!
i’ve been a ninja turtle fan since i was like 8 years old, so this really hit the spot! i might actually get into comic books now🤓
really looking forward to see how this story will continue!!🫶🏼
February 19, 2026
pfffff increíble, todas las historias son brutales y el hilo se va desarrollando de manera impecable y te va enganchando desde el minuto 1, el tono en general es algo oscuro y super guay, la historia del villano es bastante top, y el estilo de las viñetas es una locura, necesito q salgan las continuaciones pero ya
January 12, 2026
95
Decided to read more comics this year and this was a great start!
Going to check out the singles very shortly following this trade.
Some of the art was better than others, but Aaron’s writing was great!
Decided to read more comics this year and this was a great start!
Going to check out the singles very shortly following this trade.
Some of the art was better than others, but Aaron’s writing was great!
January 26, 2026
Awesome start to a new Ninja Turtles series and the starting setting to this is really good for what the story is gonna be.
March 19, 2025
3.5★
---
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Return to New York" es un "nuevo comienzo" del comic. Nos presenta a las 4 tortugas separadas y nos lleva hasta el momento en que deben unirse para enfrentar una amenaza mayor.
El argumento en general es entretenido, es un buen punto de entrada, no arranca desde cero, pero es lo suficientemente claro si uno ya conoce la historia básica. Y suma algunos misterios para querer leer los siguientes tomos.
La historia de Donnie es por lejos la más interesante, todo el libro podría ser sobre él y valdría la pena leerlo. El más flojo resulta Leo, que no aporta a la historia general, pero el arte y uso del color es hermoso y sirve para darle un respiro a la historia.
El tono es bastante oscuro y el ritmo entre capítulo y capítulo es desparejo. Ambas cosas parecen decisiones pensadas, que no afectan a la lectura en sí. Ayudan a la idea de ir saltando de un personaje a otro, algo que también hacen con el arte.
Y hablando del arte, es increíble. Cada tortuga tiene un estilo particular para ilustrar su situación, lo que ayuda a comunicar visualmente detalles que van más allá del diálogo. Hay unas puesta en páginas preciosas y muy dinámicas.
En general, es un tomo inicial, así que las cosas que siento poco desarrolladas tienen espacio para crecer (el villano, por ejemplo). Y es un comic que me dejó con ganas de saber cómo sigue. Creo que cosas como el estilo visual no van a poder mantenerse en el tiempo, ahora que todos los personajes están juntos, pero tengo curiosidad por saber cómo lo manejan.
Gracias a Netgalley y al editor por proporcionar una copia gratuita del libro a cambio de una reseña honesta.
---
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Return to New York" follows each Turtle and shows us what they're up to, before reuniting them to face a bigger threat.
The idea works perfectly with the art: each character has a unique visual style that helps to differentiate one story from the other.
The pacing is uneven. It makes sense with the story, it feels like a choice. Regarding the plot, Donnie is by far the most interesting one. The book could focus on him and I'll be here for it. Leo has the weakest one, I'm giving it a pass because the art and use of color is incredible but plot wise I felt the story would be the same without dedicating so many pages to him.
The overall tone in the book is dark, but the story manages to add here an there some interactions between the brothers that lighten the mood, and feels on brand.
I really enjoyed the comic. It's visually incredible and the plot kept me hooked. Perhaps the least interesting thing here is the villain, whose plan seems quite simple. But, in general, I want to know more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
---
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Return to New York" es un "nuevo comienzo" del comic. Nos presenta a las 4 tortugas separadas y nos lleva hasta el momento en que deben unirse para enfrentar una amenaza mayor.
El argumento en general es entretenido, es un buen punto de entrada, no arranca desde cero, pero es lo suficientemente claro si uno ya conoce la historia básica. Y suma algunos misterios para querer leer los siguientes tomos.
La historia de Donnie es por lejos la más interesante, todo el libro podría ser sobre él y valdría la pena leerlo. El más flojo resulta Leo, que no aporta a la historia general, pero el arte y uso del color es hermoso y sirve para darle un respiro a la historia.
El tono es bastante oscuro y el ritmo entre capítulo y capítulo es desparejo. Ambas cosas parecen decisiones pensadas, que no afectan a la lectura en sí. Ayudan a la idea de ir saltando de un personaje a otro, algo que también hacen con el arte.
Y hablando del arte, es increíble. Cada tortuga tiene un estilo particular para ilustrar su situación, lo que ayuda a comunicar visualmente detalles que van más allá del diálogo. Hay unas puesta en páginas preciosas y muy dinámicas.
En general, es un tomo inicial, así que las cosas que siento poco desarrolladas tienen espacio para crecer (el villano, por ejemplo). Y es un comic que me dejó con ganas de saber cómo sigue. Creo que cosas como el estilo visual no van a poder mantenerse en el tiempo, ahora que todos los personajes están juntos, pero tengo curiosidad por saber cómo lo manejan.
Gracias a Netgalley y al editor por proporcionar una copia gratuita del libro a cambio de una reseña honesta.
---
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Return to New York" follows each Turtle and shows us what they're up to, before reuniting them to face a bigger threat.
The idea works perfectly with the art: each character has a unique visual style that helps to differentiate one story from the other.
The pacing is uneven. It makes sense with the story, it feels like a choice. Regarding the plot, Donnie is by far the most interesting one. The book could focus on him and I'll be here for it. Leo has the weakest one, I'm giving it a pass because the art and use of color is incredible but plot wise I felt the story would be the same without dedicating so many pages to him.
The overall tone in the book is dark, but the story manages to add here an there some interactions between the brothers that lighten the mood, and feels on brand.
I really enjoyed the comic. It's visually incredible and the plot kept me hooked. Perhaps the least interesting thing here is the villain, whose plan seems quite simple. But, in general, I want to know more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2025
Wow. Somehow, this strikes the perfect balance between familiar and fresh and continuous and current and classic and contemporary.
I know everyone has their favourite TMNT iteration and I too have nostalgic affection for many of them having followed their exploits since the 80s Saturday morning 'toon, but, for my money, the IDW run of comics is the very best Turtles content available and this relaunch looks like it may continue that consistency, if not even improve upon it.
Aaron's scripting is Turtley awesome whilst Jones' artwork and Delgado's colours are black belt level. There are many intricate layouts and individual panels that pop off the page but one, in issue one, of the quartet leaping against a night time New York skyline is kinetic perfection whilst another, in issue two, of the brothers sharing happy pizza times stirred me all the way down to the depths of my soul.
The future is green, indeed.
I know everyone has their favourite TMNT iteration and I too have nostalgic affection for many of them having followed their exploits since the 80s Saturday morning 'toon, but, for my money, the IDW run of comics is the very best Turtles content available and this relaunch looks like it may continue that consistency, if not even improve upon it.
Aaron's scripting is Turtley awesome whilst Jones' artwork and Delgado's colours are black belt level. There are many intricate layouts and individual panels that pop off the page but one, in issue one, of the quartet leaping against a night time New York skyline is kinetic perfection whilst another, in issue two, of the brothers sharing happy pizza times stirred me all the way down to the depths of my soul.
The future is green, indeed.
Read
February 24, 2025I go decades without reading a TMNT comic, then two within a few months (even leaving aside Drawing Blood, which is a cousin at least). And this has definite similarities to The Last Ronin, with NYC having fallen under the sway of the Foot ninja clan in the turtles' absence (and indeed, a fairly similar supporting cast overall, though I suppose that's no worse than how almost everyone who gets eg a go on Batman wants to run through the same handful of overexposed foes). But where that series had no ideas past an off-the-shelf cyberpunk dystopia, this one gives us a suited son of the city desperate to prove he's the big man by throwing his considerable weight around, even as the real power players hide in the shadows and laugh at him, which for some unaccountable reason feels much more timely.
Similarly, while I initially sighed at yet another comic in which the heroes have been torn asunder for reasons unseen and unspecified, Jason Aaron at least has some fun lampshading the narrative contortions which hold off explaining what happened to the readers. And splitting the team is a fine excuse to get a bunch of different artists to do an issue each, including some very good ones (Cliff Chiang, Darick Robertson, Chris Burnham), each of them a smart match for the very different situations the brothers find themselves in. Which I hesitate to specify, some of them coming as quite a surprise, especially after the first two had made me worry we were just getting variations on a limited theme.
More than anything, though, what elevates this is simply that Aaron can write. The balance between angst, recrimination and fun never tips too far or invalidates the other strands; he can even take something as elemental as the memory many readers will have of trying to use nunchucks, and making an embarrassing hash of it, and incorporate that as a meaningful character note for the Michaelangelo spotlight issue. I don't know how long he's going to be on the book, even assuming IDW gets through its current worries, and I've never read a long run by him that didn't have its wobbles and losses of focus. But equally, I've never read anything major by him that didn't have some impressive insights, witty scenes, and of course face-crunching violence. Add this one to that list.
(Netgalley ARC)
Similarly, while I initially sighed at yet another comic in which the heroes have been torn asunder for reasons unseen and unspecified, Jason Aaron at least has some fun lampshading the narrative contortions which hold off explaining what happened to the readers. And splitting the team is a fine excuse to get a bunch of different artists to do an issue each, including some very good ones (Cliff Chiang, Darick Robertson, Chris Burnham), each of them a smart match for the very different situations the brothers find themselves in. Which I hesitate to specify, some of them coming as quite a surprise, especially after the first two had made me worry we were just getting variations on a limited theme.
More than anything, though, what elevates this is simply that Aaron can write. The balance between angst, recrimination and fun never tips too far or invalidates the other strands; he can even take something as elemental as the memory many readers will have of trying to use nunchucks, and making an embarrassing hash of it, and incorporate that as a meaningful character note for the Michaelangelo spotlight issue. I don't know how long he's going to be on the book, even assuming IDW gets through its current worries, and I've never read a long run by him that didn't have its wobbles and losses of focus. But equally, I've never read anything major by him that didn't have some impressive insights, witty scenes, and of course face-crunching violence. Add this one to that list.
(Netgalley ARC)
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