Raise Some Shell: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2)

Pop Classics #2

by Richard Rosenbaum

Celebrating the persistence of Turtle Power Raise Some Shell critically and cleverly examines the origins, evolution, and impact of the Ninja Turtles phenomenon ― from its beginning as a self-published black-and-white comic book in 1984, through its transformation into a worldwide transmedia phenomenon by the middle of the 1990s, and up to the sale of the property to Nickelodeon in 2009 and relaunch of the Turtles with new comics, cartoons, and a big-budget Hollywood film. With the eye of contemporary cultural studies and the voice of a true lifelong Turtles fan, Rosenbaum argues that the Turtles’ continuing success isn’t mere nostalgia, but rather the result of characters, and a franchise, that mutated in a way that allowed the to survive and thrive in a post-modern world.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Pop Culture, Biography, Comics, Cultural

152 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2014

Reviews

[Jennifer Anglin · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I think the Pop Classics series by ECW Press is a fantastic idea and, as a pop culture enthusiast, I plan to devour every title that comes out. Raise Some Shell is the second book in the series (the first being It Doesn’t Suck. Showgirls by Adam Nayman). ECW describes this series as “pocket pop” and that’s the truth. I carried this book around with me in my coat pocket and it was great to pull it out while on the bus, etc. Very handy.

I was a big fan of the cartoon series when I was young and definitely spent hours upon hours playing the various video games that came out. The movies (particularly the first) were among my favourites growing up. This book was a really compelling and fun read. Rosenbaum is clearly a hardcore and enthusiastic fan that critically analyses the TMNT franchise in all of its various forms. There is so much more going on in TMNT than I ever realized as a kid (i.e., multiple layers of meaning and a lot of intertextuality).

Rosenbaum shifts between exploring the cultural significance of the franchise and sharing his genuine, childlike excitement about TMNT—which is charming and infectious. The author touches on issues such as nostalgia, the pastiche, “teenageness” and the issues that go along with that, isolation and Otherness, postmodernity, the hybrid identity and more. He is also extremely funny. The footnotes included in the book are sharp, cheeky interjections that kept me laughing.

I won’t lie—I didn’t get all of the references Rosenbaum makes in this book. But that just makes me want to learn more, dive into the comic books, re-watch the movies and immerse myself in the Turtles’ world (worlds, I guess I should say).

Cowabunga, dudes!

[Jaaron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I personally never watched TMNT, nor did I read the comics. Nonetheless, these reptilian heroes were ever present in my childhood and their influence on the comic scene certainly informs and was informed by the comics and graphic novels that I read and love today. Prepare yourself as Rosenbaum takes you on walk through comic history in his highly intelligent, witty text that is often punctuated with comically hyperbolized bias, humorous footnotes, and even the occasional knock at the modern day hipster (“Q: How did the hipster burn his mouth? A: He was eating pizza before it was cool?” – page 45)

Turtles past, present, and future. His description of Ninja Turtles has sparked an interest in me, one who was hanging out in the peripheral while this phenomenon gripped the nation (not in the early years, but throughout the 90s). “And by wearing its influences openly and proudly, it declared exactly what it was trying to do–comment on contemporary genre trends–while never ever condescending to its audience or disrespecting its heroes” (8). His descriptions of modern versions of the Turtles have me curious to see the transformation the series has undergone over time. Rosenbaum’s view is broad in time in that it follows the rise, the disappearance, and the resurgence of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He voices his likes and definite dislikes towards the adaptations that have been made over the years. He knows his Turtle history well and he walks you through the triumphs and the major flops (when you get to Chapter 4 you will understand what I’m talking about here).

Suitable for the nostalgic lover of the original TMNT seeking to learn more about his or her favourite comic, for the comic book reader who never quite ended up on the Turtles bandwagon wanting to learn more about comic pop culture, or for the average reader looking to understand that ol’ comic craze through a witty and informative text (just keep in mind the bias), Raise Some Shell is accessible to a variety of readers. Rosenbaum lightens his articulate text with humorous anecdotes and highly opinionated footnotes that are likely to garner a chuckle or two. Turtle lovers will keep this text close to their heart, but those who don’t quite get Turtlemania may not fully understand the passion that Rosenbaum has for the subject. One thing is for sure, Rosenbaum sure knows how to keep the reader entertained in one way or another.

[Trav Rockwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so much love for Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Rapheal and Donatello I feel like I'm the 5th turtle, I feel I'm part of the family, and now as a 29yr old I still look at the turtles as my family, my brothers - the turtles practically raised me and we're always with me through the good times and bad.

The TMNT franchise and phenomena was really just a 'happy accident'. Struggling artists Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird were living in Northampton, Massachusetts, when they came up with the Turtles in November 1983. As a joke, Eastman drew a turtle standing on its hind legs, wearing a mask, with nunchucks strapped to its arms. Eastman wrote “Ninja Turtle” on the top of the page. Laird laughed and then drew a more refined version of the turtle.
Not to be outdone, Eastman drew four turtles, each armed with a ninja-style weapon. Laird outlined the group shot in ink and added “Teenage Mutant” to the “Ninja Turtles” title.

Loved this pop classic 'Raise some shell' by Richard Rosenbaum - he leaves no stone unturned exploring every aspect of the TMNT universe and the pop culture of the times surrounding it. Richard Rosenbaum is one of the biggest turtles fans and does the franchise justice. A pleasure to read, this will be loved by all Turtle Fans

[Cameron · Rating 4 out of 5]

A relatively short book, considering most Ninja Turtles fans would read something five times longer which goes into great depth over all the different stories and iterations the turtles have had over the past thirty years. Saying that, I have nothing but fondness for those iconic heroes in a half-shell, and this book helped me to reconnect and catch up with what they've been up to since I lost contact with them some years ago. There is an interesting take on why the Turtles are still around after so long, what keeps them relevant, and at heart it's a book by a TMNT lover for TMNT lovers. Nicely done, Richard.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received my ARC as a part of the Goodreads First Reads program.

I was never a HUGE TMNT fan. I enjoyed the cartoon as a kid, saw the movies, had a few toys, but never read the comics, and never lost sleep waiting for the next Saturday morning cartoons to air. The chance to read this book was purely a nostalgia feeling for me. Which is interesting because the main point in this book is establishing that TMNT was never a fad. It was never brought back for pure nostalgia, or the sole purpose to capitalize on the nostalgia craze and rake in a few more bucks. TMNT has substance, and story, and THAT is what has allowed the series to survive over time.

Starting with the black and white comics, and going through highs and lows, to where we are today, with a Michael Bay produced live-action movie on the horizon. It is all covered in this book. From the multiple comics, cartoons (hand drawn and CGI), movies, toys and even the Vanilla Ice "Ninja Rap". I learned a lot about the series while reading this book. It was entertaining, informative, and did accomplish my purpose in wanting to read this book. It brought back memories of my childhood.

I would recommend this book too all those that grew up enjoying the TMNT.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Richard Rosenbaum really knows his stuff & his TMNT! It's almost as if he were dissecting the entire TMNT universe & thinking about it scientifically, & delving deep into the pure science of "NinjaTurtle-ology". Sometimes he speaks in very technical terms (where I may be still scratching my head at the end of the statement), while other times using lay language to help clear the muddy waters. I like how he goes into detail in exploring the different concepts & paradoxes in the Turtles universe. That their "mutantness" is essential to their adaptability (study of an ancient Eastern tradition, while at the same time being able to keep up with the current pop-culture trends) & search for hybrid identity (neither fully human, nor fully turtle, but a combination somewhere between) in the post-modern world.

[Phillip Keeling · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Perhaps most important of all, Rosenbaum manages to take a seriously in-depth look at the Turtle phenomenon and its importance without losing his sense of humor. The ironic effect being that we feel that we can take Rosenbaum seriously for the very reason that he doesn’t allow the subject to become muddled down by self-importance. And in a book where transformative effects and the social status dictated by them is compared to the works of Kafka and Rushdie, it is imperative that one not get too full of oneself."

Read the full review at http://conquistadork.net/2014/04/16/r...

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating look at the history of TMNT and its place in culture

[Jordan Lombard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title/Author: Raise Some Shell: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles by Richard Rosenbaum
Series/Standalone: Standalone
Subject/Topic: Nonfiction/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
Book Format: Print
Length: 152 pages
Well Written/Editor Needed: Well written
Would I Recommend?: YES, if you love the TMNT, you'll love this!
Personal Thoughts: This was by turns hilarious, as the author insists Donatello is the best turtle (we'll just have to agree to disagree) and gives several footnotes to explain why, and insightful as he goes in depth into why the TMNT have been able to survive 30+ years (including years with unpopular media). I'm a long time fan of the TMNT, though I've only seen half of the TMNT media out there, and I learned a lot about the four brothers, including things I'd never thought about before. I will endeavor to read and watch all the other media I've missed now because I do love them so much. I did wish there was some kind of an index in the back to list the different types of media with their proper titles so I can more easily find and consume them later, but that was the only downside to this book. Such an engaging read, I was seriously bummed when I got to the end and couldn't keep going. Well... I guess it's time to pick up another comic book!

[Louis · Rating 4 out of 5]

very similar experience of meeting the turtles by the original cartoon that lead to the Archie comics and the original mirage comics, entertained by the movies and losing it to the next mutation. I still like the 2003 incarnation of the turtles the best and loved every minute of turtles forever.(is he narrating?!?) and as much as it talks about pastiche and nostalgia I was hopping it would be a bit more in depth into why each turtle is different and what was the impact beyond entertainment and comics. although why they have longevity and the postmodern take combined with the trashing of it is great. would be interesting to get an update tracking the new Rise show and the direction the IDW comics have taken and whatever Seth Rogens take on the TMNT will be.

[Trevor Atwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wouldn’t consider myself a huge TMNT fan. I do generally like them and have a small nostalgic place for them in my heart, but I’m a casual fan at best.

I loved this book, though. At least the first half of it that is dedicated to the origin and philosophy behind the Turtles franchise. There was a ton of history I was unaware of as well. The power of this little book is in its philosophical thought. Who knew the Turtles were a subtle undercutting of postmodernity?!?

Once I hit the last chapter and a half that deals more in the world of comic book stuff, I grew a little uninterested. But the short book is worth the read to find something deep in something presumed so shallow.

[David Macpherson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty decent look at the pop movement of TMNT. I like a lot of the theory brought up and how it changes for audience and for the times. I might have liked it more if the tone was consistent, some time the author was smart and knowledgable, sometimes he's a snarky fan boy. Both are fine attitudes, but it doesn't hold as one point of view for me. Other than that, a really good book.

[J.J. Spurlock · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun and quick read

Me, like many others, love TMNT and I really was craving a book about it and this helped that craving. It's very informative while being funny at the same time and I've learned a lot. Also, I agree with the author that Donnie is the best turtle.

[Derek Rathbun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic overview of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle franchise. My only complaint is that it wasn't long enough.

[Eric Esqueda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be warned that I'm biased for anything TMNT related. But I had fond this book to be the easiest read I've ever had. A nice little history of the TMNT up until I believe the Viacom buyout.

[annmarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2022 Book Read #8

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and insightful, though it could have used a bit more research and analysis at times. Excellent use of footnotes.

[Wayne McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Raise Some Shell: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' by Richard Rosenbaum is part of the Pop Classics series (the first volume was about the movie Showgirls, and I didn't read it). This one comes out during the 30th anniversary of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (!) and talks about their significance for a specific generation.

For those not in the know, the Turtles started life as a comic. I'm painfully familiar with this fact because I had a copy of the first issue in my hands and didn't buy it. To my credit, it was oversized (so it wouldn't fit in the bins or bags with my other comics), the comic was black and white, and, at $1.50, it was more expensive, and I put it back down. I believe that issue can go for up to $15,000 these days. Yep. I'm still kicking myself about that one.

But I digress. Mr. Rosenbaum talks about the comics era that spawned the turtles. Frank Miller's work on Daredevil and Ronin had a heavy Japanese influence. Also, comics were beginning to be deconstructed as postmodernism hit the newstands. Into this the turtles were born. Disaffected youth who were unlike other heroes (for one, they couldn't easily blend in with humans), yet they had a strong moral code.

Richard Rosenbaum is a true fan (with his favorite member of the Turtles). He talks about the various iterations of the turtles in print and on screen. He talks about the dark days of the late 1990s when the print and cartoon versions were less than true to the original, and he has a very distinct opinion about the upcoming movie.

It's a fun read and I really enjoyed the discussion at the different levels. It's nice to read something so well informed by such a big fan.

I was given a review copy of this ebook by ECW Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this fun ebook.

[Laurie · Rating 3 out of 5]

An ARC of this book was provided by Goodreads First Reads giceaways.

I was very excited when I initially heard about Raise Some Shell, and while I enjoyed the time I spent with it, I do think I was expecting something a little different.

For the most was an enjoyable read, not too dry but not too simple. The author's explanation and discussion of the pastiche element present in the Ninja Turtles franschise was great, and by the end of the book I had decided to re-immerse myself in the world of the Turtles to a greater extent than ever before.

However, where Rosenbaum's analysis of pastiche elements was successful, his discussion of nostalgia left much to be desired. The sections that (I believe) were meant to be an analysis of nostalgia were more often summary-heavy pages leading to a, "Nostalgia doesn't work that way, am I right?" kind of conclusion.

The author's interjections were, admittedly, excessively esoteric and irritating at times. It's one thing to argue a strong opinion; it's another expect everyone who picks up the book to agree with it without any convincing (and if they don't, well, they were probably Venus de Milo fans anyway).

Overall, Raise Some Shell was a good read, but it left me feeling as though I had somehow managed to only read half of the book.

[Jeff Wyonch · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good history of the entire Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles phenomenon, from the very beginning to the present day. The author is an unabashed fan, and his personal asides can be both annoying and charming. For both die-hard fans and those wondering what all the fuss is about.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoying this series so far. Breezed through each one and eagerly await more from the stable.