As most shellheads know, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles got their start in the form of an independent comic book created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird in the early 80’s. A few years later, the cartoon version of our heroes in a half shell would hit the air and make history. Considering that this incredible franchise was born during the 1980’s, it probably shouldn’t surprise anyone that they will be featured in the new book Totally Awesome: The Greatest Cartoons of the Eighties.
You may recognize the author, as he was also behind Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History. Written by cartoon historian Andrew Farago, this latest book includes several sections on a variety of notable animated shows that made their debut during the 80’s. In addition to the TMNT, you can also expect to read a lot about He-man, The Smurfs, Thundercats, Transformers and G.I. Joe – just to name a few.
Two pages from the first chapter of ‘Totally Awesome.’ Image Source: Insight Editions.
Totally Awesome: The Greatest Cartoons of the Eighties promises to be a nostalgic look back at some of the most amazing animated shows the world has ever known. Russi Taylor wrote the foreward, providing this book with a lot of street cred. Fans may remember Taylor for her voice acting in such cartoons as Ducktales and Muppet Babies.
With a release date on November 28th, this could be an excellent holiday gift for fans of either the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or the 80’s in general. Alternatively, you can always get this for yourself and take a trip down memory lane!