#IReadsYou Review: FOOD WARS!" Shokugeki No Soma Volume 32

FOOD WARS!: SHOKUGEKI NO SOMA, VOL. 32
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: Yuto Tsukuda
ART: Shun Saeki
TRANSLATION: Adrienne Beck
CONTRIBUTOR: Yuki Morisaki
LETTERS: James Gaubatz; Mara Coman
EDITOR: Jennifer LeBlanc
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0947-2; paperback (October 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
208pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma is a shonen manga series written by Yuto Tsukuda and illustrated by Shun Saeki.  Yuki Morisaki also works as a contributor, providing the recipes for the series.  Food Wars! was serialized in the Japanese manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump, from November 2012 to June 2019.  VIZ Media published an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series from August 2014 to June 2020 under two imprints:  first, “Shonen Jump Advanced” and then, “Shonen Jump.”

Food Wars! focuses on teenager Soma Yukihira.  He grows up cooking in his father's Yukihira Family Restaurant.  The 15-year-old wants to be a better chef than his father, Joshiro Yukihira (Saiba), so he hones his skills day in and day out.  His father decides to enroll him in a classy culinary school, Totsuki Saryo Culinary Institute, a place that prides itself on a 10 percent graduation rate.  If Soma Yukihira really does not want to attend Totsuki, how can he succeed?

As Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma, Vol. 32 (Chapters 272 to 281; entitled “A Subversive Visitor”) opens, the mystery of the “underground shokugeki” continues.  It is apparently connected to a group of underground chefs known as the “cuisiniers noir” that have invaded Japan.  Behind the invasion is a mystery man known as “Asahi Saiba.”

Meanwhile, Totsuki has a new teacher, Mr. Suzuki, a cheeky young chef with his sights set on Erina Nakiri.  Soma finds himself foiled by Suzuki, but he can't worry about that now.  It is time for the first semester final examinations for the second-years, and, of course, failure means expulsion from Totsuki.

[The volume includes recipes and miscellaneous illustrations.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Food Wars! manga jumps right into its next big story arc.  As usual, the fate of our heroes is on the line as the series moves towards its conclusion.

Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma Graphic Novel Volume 32 finds the creative team of writer Yuto Tsukuda and artist Shun Saeki introducing a new threat to our young heroes and heroines.  After establishing what I call the “NTO,” the new Totsuki order, the creators do not dwell on the characters' new exalted status.  They instead introduce a new adversary, one that is more than a match for the series' favorite characters.

Adrienne Beck's translation serves readers a piping hot dish of intrigue and gamesmanship.  Letterers James Gaubatz and Mara Coman set the tone for a volume that offers conflicts and challenges on several fronts.  Even as it moves towards the end, Food Wars! is as tasty a read as ever.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers hungry for good manga will want the “Shonen Jump” title, Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: HAYATE THE COMBAT BUTLER Volume 34

HAYATE THE COMBAT BUTLER, VOL. 34
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Kenjiro Hata
TRANSLATION: John Werry
LETTERS: John Hunt
EDITOR: Shaenon K. Garrity
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0566-5; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Hayate the Combat Butler is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Kenjiro Hata.  It was serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shōnen Sunday magazine from October 2004 to April 2017.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Sunday” imprint since November 2006.

Hayate the Combat Butler focuses on Hayate Ayasaki.  He begins working to pay off his degenerate parents' gambling debts when he is nine.  Before they disappear, his parents sell their son’s organs to the yakuza to cover their debts.  Hayate is working various part-time jobs to pay off the debts when fate brings Hayate to teenage heiress, Nagi Sanzenin a/k/a “Ojô-sama.”  She is the frequent target of kidnapping plots and of various schemes by people trying to get her money.  Hayate becomes Ojô-sama’s butler, zealously protecting her, while she falls in love with him.

Hayate the Combat Butler, Vol. 34 finds Nagi declaring that her dedicated maid, Maria Kyobashi a.k.a. Maria-san, is being a nag.  Nagi is determined to find some dirt on Maria-san – something she can use against her, so she sends Hayate to do her dirty work.  But does Maria have a dark side, and can Hayate find it even if she does?

Next, there is a wave of new residents at the old mansion that Hayate and company have turned into a boarding house.  First, learn the story of pop idol, Ruka Suirenji, who wants to be a manga creator.  However, her management agency practically owns her, and they don't want their pop star drawing manga as a new career.  So to escape them, Ruka moves in with Hayate and friends.  That makes Ayumu Nishizawa, who loves Hayate, jealous, as she sees Ruka as a rival.  Now, Ayumu wants to move into the boarding house, but can this financially-strapped high school girl afford $400 a month rent?

The need for more rooms leads Hayate and company to a possible “mystery room.”  What is this mystery room, and why is it protected by a magical barrier?

[This volume includes a bonus manga, four-panel comics, and art.]

THE LOWDOWN:  I have managed to read the Hayate the Combat Butler manga three times this calendar year.  There are usually several months or even a year-long gap in my readings of the series, but I am always happy to return.

Hayate the Combat Butler Graphic Novel Volume 34 is the reason I keep coming back.  Vol. 34 is one of the series' best entries, and it exemplifies creator Kenjiro Hata's deft touch with magical elements.  The “Mystery Room” story arc takes up eight of this volume's 11 chapters.  It brings elements of magic and mystery to the narrative, which are a break from the sameness of recent volumes.  There are also some allusions to a previous story arc in which regular readers may find delight.

As usual, John Werry provides a sparkling translation which captures the freshness of Vol. 34.  Letterer John Hunt's spry fonts capture the fun of magical powers and supernatural characters that abound in this volume.  So, let's get to the next volume.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers looking for comedy can find laughs in the “Shonen Sunday” manga, Hayate the Combat Butler.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: HAIKYU!! Volume 34

HAIKYU!!, VOL. 34
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Haruichi Furudate
TRANSLATION: Adrienne Beck
LETTERS: Erika Terriquez
EDITOR: Marlene First
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0780-8; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Haikyu!! is a Japanese sports manga series written and illustrated by Haruichi Furudate.  This manga was serialized in the manga magazine, Weekly Shōnen Jump, from February 2012 to July 2020.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of Haikyu!! as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since July 2015.

Haikyu!! focuses on Shoyo Hinata.  As a child, Hinata saw the legendary volleyball (haikyu) player known as “the Little Giant” compete at the national volleyball finals.  From that point, Hinata began a quest to be the best volleyball player ever.  In a sport in which tall athletes dominate, however, Hinata's height of 5'4” is considered too short.  Now, he plays for Karasuno Public High School with his rival, Tobio Kageyama.  Hinata does not believe that a player needs to be tall in order to play volleyball, especially when a player can jump higher than anyone else – as he can.

As Haikyu!!, Vol. 34 (Chapters 297 to 305; entitled “Cats' Claw”) opens, the “National Spring Tournament” continues.  Now, the long awaited match-up between Karasuno (representing Miyagi Prefecture) and Nekoma Municipal High School (Tokyo Venue Sponsor representatives), which some call the “Dumpster Battle,” begins.

Nekoma is know for their defense, but they immediately shock Karuso with their aggressive “synchro attacks” on offense.  Meanwhile, Nekoma's master “middle blocker,” Tetsuro Kuroo, plays mind games with Karasuno's master middle blocker, Kei Tsukishima.  Are Karasuno, suddenly favorites in a match for the first time, ripe for an upset?

[This volume includes “Haikyu! vs. Let's Haikyu?! – Special Collaboration Bonus Short” drawn by Retsu.  Let's Haikyu!? is a gag manga based on the Haikyu!!]

THE LOWDOWN:  I had not read the Haikyu!! manga in almost a year and a half.  Now, I have read four volumes in seven months.

Haikyu!! Graphic Novel Volume 34 begins the Karasuno-Nekoma Dumpster Battle.  Creator Haruichi Furudate has been telling readers that this is the match for which the players of both schools have been waiting for quite some time.  Well, the wait was worth it for both players and for Haikyu!!'s readers.  Vol. 34 is one of the better recent volumes.  Furudate is so good at depicting the excitement of volleyball matches, and he excels here, making sure that the Dumpster Battle does not become a narrative “dumpster fire.”

As usual, Adrienne Beck's translation captures the game action and, when necessary, the evolution of the characters.  Letterer Erika Terriquez shines as she continues to create the furious comic book noise of the game.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of sports manga will want the “Shonen Jump” title, Haikyu!!

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douressseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: DRAGON BALL SUPER Volume 6

DRAGON BALL SUPER VOL. 6
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: Akira Toriyama
ART: Toyotarou
TRANSLATION: Toshikazu Aizawa, Christine Dashiell, and Caleb Cook
LETTERS: Paolo Gattone and Chiara Antonelli
EDITOR: Marlene First
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0520-7; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Dragon Ball was a long-running Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Akira Toriyama.  It was originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1984 to 1995 and was comprised of 519 individual chapters.  The hero of Dragon Ball was Son Goku, and the series began with the story of his childhood.

Dragon Ball Super is written by Toriyama and drawn by Toyotarou, a writer-artist who works on Dragon Ball spin-off manga.  Dragon Ball Super has been published in the Japanese manga magazine, V Jump, since June 2015.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series since May 2017, under its “Shonen Jump” imprint.

Dragon Ball Super is a sequel to the Dragon Ball manga and to the “Dragon Ball Z” anime series.  This sequel is set several months after Goku's victory that brought peace back to Earth.  Goku and his friends must defend Earth, this time from fighters from other universes and timelines.

As Dragon Ball Super, Vol. 6 (Chapters 29 to 32; entitled “The Super Warriors Gather!”) opens, the “Zen Exhibition Match” between the “Gods of Destruction” comes to an end.  And the Lords of Everything are bored, so they change some rules.  Now, the “Tournament of Power” will only feature mortals, and gods are forbidden.

Each universe that competes must field ten warriors, which means that Goku and friends have to recruit Universe 7's mightiest warriors.  But they must win because the universes that lose will face complete destruction.

[This manga includes the sketchbook section, “Toriyama Sensei's Corrections,” which features Akira Toriyama's corrections of Toyotarou's character designs and story pages.]

THE LOWDOWN:  Because of a scattering of review copies I received, I became an occasional reader of the Dragon Ball manga.  I do enjoy reading the manga, and the Dragon Ball Super manga is a nice fresh start for new readers... at least I think so.

Dragon Ball Super Graphic Novel Volume 6 follows the changes that began with Vol. 2.  This saw the series move on from its original premise – the fight between Universes 6 and 7 – to this current battle of the universes.  After several volumes dealing with Goku and company's epic battle against the multi-universal villains, Zamas and Goku Black (which ended in the middle of Vol. 5), Toriyama and Toyotarou move readers deeper into the “Tournament of Power” story line.

Vol. 6 may be the volume that I have enjoyed the most.  It is mostly battle manga and some comedy-drama about the gathering of warriors.  It promises much battle manga fun to come, so I'll keep reading... and recommending this to you, dear readers, who happen to be Dragon Ball fans.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers looking for more Dragon Ball manga will want to try the “Shonen Jump” title, Dragon Ball Super.

A
8.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: BLUE EXORCIST Volume 22

BLUE EXORCIST, VOL. 22
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Kazue Kato
TRANSLATION & ENGLISH ADAPTATION: John Werry
LETTERS: John Hunt, Primary Graphix
EDITOR: Mike Montesa
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0873-4; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
210pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Blue Exorcist is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Kazue Kato.  The manga has been serialized in Shueisha's Jump Square magazine since April 2009.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump Advanced” and “Shonen Jump” imprints since April 2011

Blue Exorcist focuses on Rin Okumura.  He has an argument with his foster father, the famous exorcist, Father Shiro Fujimoto.  That is how he learns that the Demon Lord Satan is his father!  Even after Satan suddenly appears and tries to drag him to hell, Rin is still determined to reject his demonic blood line.  He enrolls at True Cross Academy Private High School in order to train to become an exorcist.  Rin’s twin brother, Yukio Okumura, already an exorcist, is one of his instructors.

As Blue Exorcist, Vol. 22 (Chapters 99 to 103) opens, the seals binding the artificial “Gehenna Gate” are broken, and the world is beset by an invasion of demons.  The “Exwires” must fight without brothers, Rin and Yukio Okumara, the latter being under arrest.  Rin, meanwhile, has demanded that Mephisto Pheles, his and his brother's guardian, reveal the Okumara family's past to him.

Mephisto is more than delighted to use his time-traveling powers to show Rin what happened all those years ago.  Rin will meet his mother, Yuri Egin, as a girl and watch her grow, and he will meet his foster father, Shiro Fujimoto, who has a dark and troubled past.  But, Mephisto warns Rin, this story can only end in tragedy.

[This volume contains bonus comics, art, text, etc.]

THE LOWDOWN:  Once a year, I get around to reading the Blue Exorcist manga.  This calendar year, I have read five volumes.

Blue Exorcist Graphic Novel Volume 22 can be joined with Vols. 20 and 21 to form what is one of the series best three-volume runs that I have read.  At this point, creator Kazue Kato brings a turning point to the narrative, but Vol. 22 has a laser focus and is almost intimate in the way Kato unveils the past of the Okumara brothers.

John Werry's usually excellent translation reveals the story in delicate strokes with occasional intimate details.  John Hunt's lettering conveys the constant shifts in tone, especially in regards to Shiro Fujimoto's anger and bitterness.  If you are a manga reader not reading Blue Exorcist, dear readers, you are missing a tremendous read.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers looking for dark magic and action comics will want to try the “Shonen Jump Advanced” title, Blue Exorcist.

A+
10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: MY HERO ACADEMIA Volume 21

 

MY HERO ACADEMIA, VOL. 21
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Kohei Horikoshi
TRANSLATION/ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Caleb Cook
LETTERS: John Hunt
EDITORS: Mike Montesa; Jon Bae
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0950-2; paperback (October 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

My Hero Academia is a Japanese superhero manga series written and illustrated by Kohei Horikoshi.  It has been serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since July 2014.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of My Hero Academia as a paperback graphic novel series since 2015 under its “Shonen Jump” imprint.

In My Hero Academia, there comes a day when people start manifesting superpowers called “Quirks.”  Some use their powers to commit crime, which creates the need for heroes.  If someone wants to be a superhero, he or she enrolls in the Hero Academy.  What would a person do, however, if he were one of the 20 percent born Quirkless?  Middle school student Izuku Midoriya has no chance of ever getting into the prestigious U.A. High School for budding heroes.  Then, Midoriya meets the greatest hero of them all, All Might, who gives him a chance to change his destiny…

As My Hero Academia, Vol. 21 (Chapters 189 to 200; entitled “Why He Gets Back Up”) opens, Endeavor, the new “No. 1” hero since All-Might retired, is in the fight of his life against the just-returned “Nomu.”  The battle rages across the city as Endeavor fights to solidify his new position as the number one hero.  Hawks fights by his side, but where do his loyalties really lie?  And even if Endeavor wins, he will have to face Dabi!

Next, Midoriya has a surreal experience concerning the previous wielders of the “One for All” powers.  Plus, Class 1-A battles Class B in joint battle training.

[This volume includes characters files and bonus and miscellaneous art – sketches and chapter headings.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The My Hero Academia manga is a superhero comic book – shonen manga style.  Being quite similar to American comics in the way that it depicts superheroes and super-powers, the series is popular on both sides of the Pacific.

My Hero Academia Graphic Novel Volume 21 delves into the current “League of Villains” conspiracy with a surprising twist or two.  However, creator Kohei Horikoshi doesn't forget his star, Izuke Midoriya, and we get to see some mystery build around this wonderful character.  While we have to wait for Midoriya's turn in the battle of the classes, Vol. 21 is the kind of volume that exemplifies this series' ability to keep readers coming back.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of superhero comics and of shonen battle manga will want to enroll at the “Shonen Jump” school, My Hero Academia.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: BLACK CLOVER Volume 17

BLACK CLOVER, VOL. 17
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Yuki Tabata
TRANSLATION: Taylor Engel, HC Language Solutions, Inc.
LETTERS: Annaliese Christman
EDITOR: Alexis Kirsch
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0616-7; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Black Clover is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Yuki Tabata.  It has been serialized in the manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump, since February 2015.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since 2016.

Black Clover focuses on a hopeful boy named Asta.  He and his friend, Yuno, are found abandoned in the village of Hage of the Clover Kingdom.  Both Asta and Yuno dream of one day being the “Wizard King,” the greatest mage in the land.  Asta has one big problem; he can't use magic.  When he is 15-years-old, Asta receives the rare “five-leaf-clover grimoire” (a book of magic), which gives him the power of anti-magic.  Can Asta become the Wizard King without being able to use magic?  Is he worthy of being in the “Magic Knights” squad, “the Black Bulls?”

As Black Clover, Vol. 17 (Chapters 151 to 160; entitled “Fall, Or Save the Kingdom”) opens, disaster has struck the Magic Knights.  The souls of elves who claim to have been killed by humans have taken over the bodies of members of the Magic Knights.  Now, these elves are going to use their new bodies and enhanced powers to kill humans.  Asta and the Magic Knights are in trouble, but that doesn't mean that Asta is going to give up?  But which side is Yuno on?

[This volume includes bonus material:  “The Blank Page Brigade;” an “Afterword;” and sketches.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Black Clover manga is one of the best shonen battle manga available to English-speaking audiences.  I have read seven volumes so far this year, and every time I read one it is like rediscovering how amazing this series is.

Black Clover Graphic Novel Volume 17 moves deeper into this shocking elves-possession story line.  It just came out of nowhere, and truthfully, it could have turned out to be a disaster.  Elvish ghosts; elvish genocide; possession; revenge: yeah, that could have been a disaster.  Instead, Vol. 17 is the latest volume in a really fun to read graphic novel series.  I practically tore through this volume.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of the top Weekly Shonen Jump manga will definitely want to try the “Shonen Jump” series, Black Clover.

A+
10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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#IReadsYou Review: TWIN STAR EXORCISTS: Volume 16

TWIN STAR EXORCISTS, VOL. 16
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Yoshiaki Sukeno
TRANSLATION: Tetsuichiro Miyaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Bryant Turnage
LETTERS: Stephen Dutro
EDITOR: Annette Roman
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0776-8; paperback (September 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

Sōsei no Onmyōji is a shonen manga series written and illustrated by Yoshiaki Sukeno.  The manga has been serialized in the Japanese manga magazine, Jump Square, since October 2013. VIZ Media is publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a series of paperback graphic novels, entitled Twin Star Exorcists.  VIZ released the series first under its “Shonen Jump Advanced” imprint, and then, under its “Shonen Jump” imprint, beginning July 2015.

Twin Star Exorcists focuses on Rokuro Enmado.  He did not want to be an exorcist, but he met a mysterious girl named Benio Adashino.  This 14-year-old was serious about being an exorcist, and she wanted to fight the monstrous creatures called Kegare.  Because their destinies are intertwined, Rokuro and Benio are called the “Twin Star Exorcists.”  They are fated to marry... and to conceive the “Prophesied Child.”

As Twin Star Exorcists, Vol. 16 (Chapters 57 to 60) opens, the “Yuto Punitive Expedition” into Magano, the realm of the Kegare, has turned into a disaster.  This was to be a minor mission, but the exorcists were met by four risk-level, “SS,” Basara (a Kegare that can speak and is more powerful).  Two of the Twelve Guardians have been killed, but before passing on, they have passed on their spiritual guides.  Meanwhile, what is Rokuro up to?

[This volume includes bonus drawings.]

THE LOWDOWN:  As I've said in previous reviews, the Twin Star Exorcists manga is usually in a constant state of flux, as creator Yoshiaki Sukeno introduces new characters and new subplots at a steady rate.  There are other times when the narrative goes still and focuses intensely on violence and combat, a state in which it currently... rests.

Twin Star Exorcists Graphic Novel Volume 16 focuses on the Yuto Punitive Expedition.  Creator Yoshiaki Sukeno is using the story arc to introduce the next generation of the Twelve Guardians.  The histories, origins, and back stories of these characters are poignant, and Sukeno has provided the material to make them exceptional characters for an exceptional manga.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of action-fantasy, shonen manga will want to try the “Shonen Jump” manga, Twin Star Exorcists.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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#IReadsYou Review: SPY X FAMILY Volume 1

SPY X FAMILY, VOL. 1
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

MANGAKA: Tatsuya Endo
TRANSLATION/ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Casey Loe
LETTERS: Rina Mapa
EDITOR: Amy Yu
ISBN: 978-1-9747-1546-6; paperback (June 2020); Rated “T” for “Teen”
220pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Spy × Family is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Tatsuya Endo.  It has been serialized biweekly for free on the Shōnen Jump+ application and website since March 25, 2019.  VIZ Media began publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint in June 2020.

Spy × Family, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 5) introduces a mysterious man known as “Twilight.”  He is the master spy of the country of Westalis.  A man of a hundred faces, Twilight has extraordinary combat, memory, and information processing skills.  His latest mission takes him to Westalis' neighbor to the east, The People's Republic of Ostania.  There is a fragile truce between Westalis and Ostania, but a political leader named Donovan Desmond threatens that and foments war.  Twilight's mission is to get close to Desmond and to spy on his activities.

To do that, Twilight must pose as a family man!  One problem is that Twilight has never been a family man.  So how does he end up with a wife named “Yor Briar” and an elementary school-age daughter named “Anya?”  Heck, the even bigger questions are does he know that Yor is a ruthless assassin and that Anya is a telepath?

[This volume includes bonus material, “Spy × Family Confidential Files,” which is comprised of bonus comics, a character profile, and a “thank you” to the art and production staff of Spy × Family.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The title of the Spy × Family manga is apparently pronounced “Spy Family.”  That's appropriate because the series will apparently focus on the family as being more than just a cover for the activities of Twilight, ostensibly the series' lead character.

Spy × Family Graphic Novel Volume 1 is a strong first volume for a series that seems a bit eccentric merely on the basis of the premise and turns out to be a bit eccentric upon reading.  The art is elegantly drawn with sharp, precise line work, but it is drawn to suggest a sense of humor in the story.  The graphical storytelling is witty and sly, and the danger and violence is no more than what readers would find in a shonen manga like Nisekoi: False Love.  The art for Spy × Family makes me think of something like a manga adaptation of a Daniel Craig James Bond movie overseen by the legendary American animation filmmaker, Chuck Jones, at the height of his graphic style.

Casey Loe offers a strong English-language adaptation in this first volume of Spy × Family, which is dialogue heavy.  Loe conveys the sly wit and deadpan humor that underpins the action in these first five chapters of the series.  And, as usual, letterer Rina Mapa gives elegant art some elegant lettering.  Yes, Spy × Family is series worth revisiting

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of secret agents and of international intrigue will want to spy on the “Shonen Jump” title Spy × Family.

8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: ONE-PUNCH MAN Volume 17

ONE-PUNCH MAN, VOL. 17
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: ONE
ART: Yusuke Murata
TRANSLATION: John Werry
LETTERS: James Gaubatz
EDITORS: Jennifer LeBlanc; John Bae
ISBN: 978-1-9745-0461-4; paperback (August 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
216pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

One-Punch Man is a Japanese superhero franchise that began as a webcomic created by the writer-artist ONE.  Later, ONE joined artist Yusuke Murata to create a digital manga remake of One-Punch Man, and it began publication on Shueisha's Tonari no Young Jump website in 2012.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the digital manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint, beginning in 2015.

One-Punch Man focuses on Saitama, who wants to be a hero.  Beginning his superhero training when he is 22-years-old, he becomes a hero when he is 25.  He really does not look like a superhero, with his lifeless facial expression, bald head, and unimpressive physique.  But he beats the snot out of super-villains with one punch, and he even has his own disciple, the young cyborg, Genos (who really does not need any training).

As One-Punch Man, Vol. 17 (Chapters 88 to 88; entitled “Because I'm the Bald Cape?”) opens, Gara, the so-called “Hero Hunter,” has recovered from the beating he got from the heroes, “Bang” and “Bomb.”  Still, Gara's wounds are life-threatening, so he is in need of a rescue.  Enter the centipede mega-monster, “Centichoro!”  Bang and Bomb are powerless against this kaiju, and even Genos struggles against the creature.  Enter the legendary hero, “King,” with his pal, Saitama.  Which one will stop Centichoro's unstoppable rampage?

Meanwhile, at Hero Association headquarters, Mr. Nakiri rages that his son, Waganma, the child kidnapped by the Monster Association, remains a captive.  But can his “Nakiri Private Force” do more to free his son than the heroes have done?

[This volume includes a bonus manga chapter, “Confidence,” and also bonus illustrations and bonus comics.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The One-Punch Man manga remains my favorite superhero comic book.  Like the shonen manga, My Hero Academia, it is a Japanese take on the American superhero comic book.  As much as I like My Hero Academia, I am crazy in love with One-Punch Man.

One-Punch Man Graphic Novel Volume 17, like Vol. 16, is pure battle manga.  However, Vol. 17 contains one of the most exhilarating sequences featuring Saitama in action that this series has ever had.  The ten-page “Se-Ri-Ous Punch!” sequence exemplifies artist Yusuke Murata's impressive skill.  I'm not sure anyone is as good at drawing fight comics as he is right now.

John Werry's translation for the chapters contained in Vol. 17 reveal the complicated nature of the relationships on both sides of this hero-monster battle.  No one is pure to his cause, and many cannot be trusted.  Some characters may be more neutral than anything, and Werry brings out the increasingly gray nature of this group of flawed characters.  So, yes, this is a joy to read, as both a superhero comic and as a shonen character melodrama.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of shonen battle manga and of superhero comic books will love the “Shonen Jump” title, One-Punch Man.

A
9.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: MY HERO ACADEMIA Volume 20

MY HERO ACADEMIA, VOL. 20
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Kohei Horikoshi
TRANSLATION/ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Caleb Cook
LETTERS: John Hunt
EDITORS: Mike Montesa; Jon Bae
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0773-7; paperback (August 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

My Hero Academia is a Japanese superhero manga series written and illustrated by Kohei Horikoshi.  It has been serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since July 2014.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of My Hero Academia as a paperback graphic novels since 2015 under its “Shonen Jump” imprint.

In My Hero Academia, there comes a day when people start manifesting superpowers called “Quirks.”  Some use their powers to commit crime, which creates the need for heroes.  If someone wants to be a superhero, he or she enrolls in the Hero Academy.  What would a person do, however, if he were one of the 20 percent born Quirkless?  Middle school student Izuku Midoriya has no chance of ever getting into the prestigious U.A. High School for budding heroes.  Then, Midoriya meets the greatest hero of them all, All Might, who gives him a chance to change his destiny…

As My Hero Academia, Vol. 20 (Chapters 178 to 188; entitled “School Festival Start!!”) opens, Midoriya struggles mightily to stop the “Gentle Criminal” and his partner, “La Brava,” from ruining the U.A. school festival.  No matter how hard he fights, Midoriya can't seem to crack an attack against him that is based on his adversaries' peculiar relationship.  But is it really peculiar, or is it just strong?  And what is the nature of that relationship?  Plus, the origin stories of both “Gentle Criminal” and “La Brava” reveal two humans searching...

After the surprising conclusion of the school festival, it's time for the twice-yearly “Japanese Billboard Hero Chart.”  Everyone knows that Endeavor (Shoto Todoroki's dad) is the new “No. 1” hero since All-Might retired.  But is Endeavor, who has long coveted this spot, up to taking on its responsibilities?  He will soon get the chance to prove his worth when a fellow top ten member, Hawks, tells him about the return of the “Nomu.”

[This volume includes bonus art – sketches and chapter headings.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The My Hero Academia manga is Japan's answer to superhero comic books.  Being quite similar to American comics in the way that it depicts superheroes and super-powers, the series is popular on both sides of the Pacific.

My Hero Academia Graphic Novel Volume 20 finds creator Kohei Horikoshi offering a grand battle featuring the series star, Midoriya.  Horikoshi presents dastardly villains with poignant stories, and then, he moves us to the uproarious fun of the school festival and the fantastic show Class 1-A's puts on.  Then, readers are right back into the next big conspiracy, and the the ending to Vol. 20 is another of the most excellent cliffhangers readers have come to expect from this series.

Caleb Cook's translation and English adaptation deftly captures the many shifting moods of Vol. 20, and John Hunt's lettering is up to the task of setting one tone after another.  I always wonder if I will grow tired of My Hero Academia, but an entry like Vol. 20 comes along and keeps me and you, dear readers, coming back.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of superhero comics and of shonen battle manga will want to enroll at the “Shonen Jump” school, My Hero Academia.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: FOOD WARS: Shokugeki No Soma Volume 31

FOOD WARS!: SHOKUGEKI NO SOMA, VOL. 31
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: Yuto Tsukuda
ART: Shun Saeki
TRANSLATION: Adrienne Beck
CONTRIBUTOR: Yuki Morisaki
LETTERS: James Gaubatz; Mara Coman
EDITOR: Jennifer LeBlanc
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0774-4; paperback (August 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
208pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma is a shonen manga series written by Yuto Tsukuda and illustrated by Shun Saeki.  Yuki Morisaki also works as a contributor, providing the recipes for the series.  Food Wars! was serialized in the Japanese manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump, from November 2012 to June 2019.  VIZ Media published an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series from August 2014 to June 2020 under two imprints:  first, “Shonen Jump Advanced” and then, “Shonen Jump.”

Food Wars! focuses on teenager Soma Yukihira.  He grows up cooking in his father's Yukihira Family Restaurant.  The 15-year-old wants to be a better chef than his father, Joshiro Yukihira (Saiba), so he hones his skills day in and day out.  His father decides to enroll him in a classy culinary school, Totsuki Saryo Culinary Institute, a place that prides itself on a 10 percent graduation rate.  If Soma Yukihira really does not want to attend Totsuki, how can he succeed?

As Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma, Vol. 31 (Chapters 263 to 271; entitled “The New Totsuki Institute”) opens, the fifth and final bout of “the Régiment de Cuisine Shokugeki” has ended.  The Régiment pitted three members of Soma and his allies' group, known as “the Resistance,” against Totsuki's “Council of Ten.”  If the Resistance won the Régiment, they would reinstate their expelled classmates and gain seats on the council.  If they lost, all students connected to the Resistance would be expelled and Soma's father, Joshiro, would become a slave... of sorts.

Well, the Resistance won, and Soma and his friends are now second-year students.  The administration of Azami Nakiri, Erina's father, has ended.  Erina is the new dean of Totsuki, and Soma is the Council of Ten “First Seat.”  As the boss, Erina eventually has a mission for Soma, one that includes Council of Ten “Tenth Seat,” Megumi Tadokoro.  Erina sends the two on a “business trip” to a resort town with ties to Totsuki.  The business is the mission to discover why a traditional inn, Kazami Baths Inn & Bathhouse, suddenly closed without warning.  Even the owner can't be found.

This mystery will turn weird and dark as Soma and Megumi discover an “underground” connection.  And Soma will be shocked to find a connection to himself!

[The volume includes bonus manga, “Special Short: An Elegant Evening Banquet,” and also recipes and miscellaneous illustrations.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Food Wars! manga finally reached the end of the great shokugeki – a battle of chefs – that decides many fates of many students.  While the winner was declared in Vol. 30, there is some moping up to do.

Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma Graphic Novel Volume 31 finds the creative team of writer Yuto Tsukuda and artist Shun Saeki establishing what I call the “NTO,” the new Totsuki order.  They don't dwell on that, however, as they jump right into the next great story arc.  Considering that Vol. 31 is the first of the series' final six volumes, they waste no time delivering one of those ultimate shockers.  Adrienne Beck's translation is right there with us to deliver this volume's reveals and surprises with sparkling dialogue.  It is enough to make me race to the next volume.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers hungry for good manga will want the “Shonen Jump” title, Food Wars!: Shokugeki No Soma.

A+
10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: HAIKYU!! Volume 33

HAIKYU!!, VOL. 33
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Haruichi Furudate
TRANSLATION: Adrienne Beck
LETTERS: Erika Terriquez
EDITOR: Marlene First
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0743-0; paperback (July 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Haikyu!! is a Japanese sports manga series written and illustrated by Haruichi Furudate.  This manga was serialized in the manga magazine, Weekly Shōnen Jump, from February 2012 to July 2020.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of Haikyu!! as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since July 2015.

Haikyu!! focuses on Shoyo Hinata.  As a child, Hinata saw the legendary volleyball (haikyu) player known as “the Little Giant” compete at the national volleyball finals.  From that point, Hinata began a quest to be the best volleyball player ever.  In a sport in which tall athletes dominate, however, Hinata's height of 5'4” is considered too short.  Now, he plays for Karasuno Public High School with his rival, Tobio Kageyama.  Hinata does not believe that a player needs to be tall in order to play volleyball, especially when a player can jump higher than anyone else – as he can.

As Haikyu!!, Vol. 33 (Chapters 288 to 296; entitled “Monsters' Ball”) opens, the “National Spring Tournament” continues.  Karasuno (representing Miyagi Prefecture) won its opening match and, in the second round, matches up against Inarizaki High School, one of the favorites to win the entire tournament.  Plus, Inarizaki has a set of “wonder twins,” the brothers, Osamu and Atsumu Miya, who even have their own version of Hinata and Kageyama's “freak quick.”

If underdog Karasuno gets past Inarizaki, awaiting them is Nekoma Municipal High School (Tokyo Venue Sponsor representatives).  Karasuno and Nekoma have faced each other in practice matches in the past, but Karasuno has never won any of them!

[This volume includes “Bonus Story” and “Bonus Story 2.”]

THE LOWDOWN:  I had not read the Haikyu!! manga in almost a year and a half.  Now, I have read three volumes in five months.

Haikyu!! Graphic Novel Volume 33 brings to a close the Karasuno vs. Inarizaki High story arc, which began in Vol. 29 and ran through three entire volumes (Vols. 30 to 32), before ending four chapters into Vol. 33.  It is easy to forget how really good this series is at depicting all that is fast and furious about a volleyball match... until you read it again.  In fact, Haikyu!! creator Haruichi Furudate is so good at depicting the excitement of volleyball that I am not bored even when following a match that runs through several volumes.

As usual, Adrienne Beck's translation captures the game action and, when necessary, the evolution of the characters.  Letterer Erika Terriquez shines as she continues to create the furious comic book noise of the game.  This duo keeps us going as this series approaches its end.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of sports manga will want the “Shonen Jump” title, Haikyu!!

A
8.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Reivew: CASE CLOSED Volume 71

CASE CLOSED, VOL. 71
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Gosho Aoyama
TRANSLATION: Tetsuichiro Miyaki
LETTERS: Freeman Wong
EDITOR: Shaenon K. Garrity
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0655-6; paperback (July 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
184pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Detective Conan is a Japanese detective manga series written and illustrated by Gosho Aoyama.  It has been serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shonen Sunday since January 1994.  VIZ Media is publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series, entitled Case Closed, under its “Shonen Sunday” imprint.

Case Closed focuses on Jimmy Kudo, ace high school detective.  Kudo is trailing two suspicious men in black (named “Gin” and “Vodka”), when the nefarious duo attacks him.  The two men administer to Jimmy a mysterious substance that physically transforms the teen into a first grader.  While searching for a cure, Jimmy adopts a new identity, becoming elementary school student, Conan Edogawa.  Acting alone and sometimes with his friends, the Junior Detective League (JDL), Jimmy/Conan continues to solve criminal cases and mysteries.

As Case Closed, Vol. 71 (“The Game is Afoot”) opens, Conan and the Junior Detective League solve a rather benign mystery.  It is set at Teitan Elementary School, and it involves – first, finding a “crime prevention” VHS tape lost in the school's A.V. room, which is hardly organized at all.  Then, Conan and the JDL find themselves on the case of a second lost VHS tape containing a superhero TV show (“Samurai Boy”) made by the students; a lost love letter from 13 years earlier; Teitan alumnus, Detective Chiba; and his lost love.  Can Conan and the other kids find the tape, a lost message, and reignite the flames of puppy love?

Then Conan, Dr. Herschel Agasa, Richard Moore (“the Sleeping Detective”), and his daughter Rachel head to London after being invited on an all-expenses-paid trip by an eccentric lady millionaire.  So how does Jimmy Kudo end up in London, also?  And how do both Jimmy and Conan end up trailing a devilish serial killer whose clues reference Sherlock Holmes stories?

THE LOWDOWN:  I'll start off this review by saying the usual:  I love the Case Closed manga.  And regular readers of my reviews know that.

Case Closed Graphic Novel Volume 71 starts off with the sweet and charming two-chapter mystery involving videotape memories and 13-year-old messages.  The remaining nine chapters of this 11-chapter volume focus on the London-set mystery of Sherlock Holmes clues, a serial killer, and a Wimbledon championship tennis match that turns out to have life and death implications.  By the way, that mystery doesn't conclude in Vol.71, which leaves us with a helluva cliffhanger.

As usual, Tetsuichiro Miyaki's sharp translation skills come to the fore in this particularly dialogue-heavy volume.  There is so much dialogue in some chapters that you might think you are reading a double-sized chapter, dear readers.  Luckily, Freeman Wong's unique lettering sets the stage, as well as being clear and concise.  Well, we've got to hurry back for Vol. 72... for the end of the match.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers looking for fun mystery fiction will want to investigate the “Shonen Sunday” detective manga, Case Closed.

A
8 out of 10

Reviewed by leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.




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#IReadsYou Review: BLACK CLOVER Volume 16

BLACK CLOVER, VOL. 16
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Yuki Tabata
TRANSLATION: Sarah Neufeld, HC Language Solutions, Inc.
LETTERS: Annaliese Christman
EDITOR: Alexis Kirsch
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0513-9; paperback (July 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
200pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK

Black Clover is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Yuki Tabata.  It has been serialized in the manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump, since February 2015.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since 2016.

Black Clover focuses on a hopeful boy named Asta.  He and his friend, Yuno, are found abandoned in the village of Hage of the Clover Kingdom.  Asta dreams of one day being the “Wizard King,” the greatest mage in the land.  He has one big problem; he can't use magic.  When he is 15-years-old, Asta receives the rare “five-leaf-clover grimoire” (a book of magic), which gives him the power of anti-magic.  Can Asta become the Wizard King without being able to use magic, and is he worthy of being in the “Magic Knights” squad, “the Black Bulls?”

As Black Clover, Vol. 16 (Chapters 141 to 150; entitled “And End and a Beginning”) opens, both Asta and Yuno are members of the newly formed and elite “Royal Knights” brigade.  Both are now on their first mission, storming the based of the “Eye of the Midnight Sun,” which conspires against the Clover Kingdom.  Also, the Black Bulls base of operations is under attack, but a mysterious young guy named Henry is helping defend the base.

Meanwhile, at the top of “the Golden Dawn Magic Knights” headquarters, the current Wizard King, Lord Julius Novachrono, is meeting William Vangeance, a member of the Golden Dawn.  It is an encounter that will change everything.

[This volume includes bonus material:  “The Blank Page Brigade;” an “Afterword;” and sketches.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Black Clover manga continues to be one of the best shonen battle manga available to English-speaking audiences.  I have read six volumes so far this year, and I can't get enough of this exciting series.

Black Clover Graphic Novel Volume 16 moves away from the Royal Knights tournament story which has dominated much of the recent volumes.  Vol. 16 is a game-changer, and the revelations are too shocking for me to risk spoiling anything.  I can say that this blood-chilling volume contains ten chapters that are ready to rock your world.  This volume epitomizes why Black Clover is both a popular manga and an internationally beloved anime series.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of the top Weekly Shonen Jump manga will definitely want to try the “Shonen Jump” series, Black Clover.

A+
10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: SERAPH OF THE END: Vampire Reign Volume 17

SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN, VOL. 17
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: Takaya Kagami
CARTOONIST: Yamato Yamamoto
STORYBOARDS: Daisuke Furuya
TRANSLATION: Adrienne Beck
LETTERS: Sabrina Heep
EDITOR: Marlene First
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0781-2; paperback (June 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
184pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

Seraph of the End is a Japanese dark fantasy manga written by Takaya Kagami and illustrated by Yamato Yamamoto, with storyboards produced by Daisuke Furuya.  It has been published in the manga magazine, Jump SQ, since September 2012.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language adaptation of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series, entitled Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign, since June 2014.

Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign is set in a world in which the trumpets of the apocalypse proclaimed the fall of humanity in the year 2012.  Vampires rose from the shadows and began their reign over the Earth.  A mysterious virus killed almost all adult humans, sparing those younger than 13 years of age.  The children were subsequently enslaved as livestock for vampires.  In 2016, the orphan, Yuichiro “Yu” Hyakuya, stepped forward, seeking revenge; his goal was and is to kill each and every vampire.

As Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign, Vol. 17 (Chapters 64 to 69) opens, Lt. Guren Ichinose has captured the angel that was summoned with the original apocalypse.  Now, Yuichiro and the angel have a lot of crap to say to one another, although Yu wants to save the angel.  Plus, Asuramaru, the demon spirit of  Yu's possessed weapon, is struggling with memories.  He tell Yuichiro that he doesn't want the memories, but when we see them, we'll want to know more – much more.

[This volume includes an “Afterword,” miscellaneous text, and a full-color mini-poster insert.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign manga is one of my favorite vampire comics.  With its tales of military politics and demonic possession, it also offers unique character drama built on secrets and lost memories.

Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign Graphic Novel Volume 17 does all those things.  I don't think that Vol. 17 starts off as a promising volume, but then again, I did not expect the kind of secrets that would be revealed.  I want to be a spoiler, but that would be wrong because this is so good.  I think Vol. 17 is certainly one of those payoff volumes for longtime readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire manga will want to try of the “Shonen Jump Advanced” series, Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: TWIN STAR EXORCISTS Volume 15

TWIN STAR EXORCISTS, VOL. 15
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Yoshiaki Sukeno
TRANSLATION: Tetsuichiro Miyaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Bryant Turnage
LETTERS: Stephen Dutro
EDITOR: Annette Roman
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0522-1; paperback (May 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
208pp, B&W, $9.99 US, $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

Sōsei no Onmyōji is a shonen manga series written and illustrated by Yoshiaki Sukeno.  The manga has been serialized in the Japanese manga magazine, Jump Square (Shueisha, Inc.), since October 2013. VIZ Media is publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a series of graphic novels, entitled Twin Star Exorcists.  VIZ released the series first under its “Shonen Jump Advanced” imprint, and then, under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since July 2015.

Twin Star Exorcists focuses on Rokuro Enmado.  He did not want to be an exorcist, but he met a mysterious girl named Benio Adashino.  This 14-year-old was serious about being an exorcist, and she wanted to fight the monstrous creatures called Kegare.  Because their destinies are intertwined, Rokuro and Benio are called the “Twin Star Exorcists.”  They are fated to marry... and to conceive the “Prophesied Child.”

As Twin Star Exorcists, Vol. 15 (Chapters 53 to 56) opens, Benio is in Magano, the realm of the Kegare.  She must begin the ritual to claim her spiritual powers... and her true form – that of a Kegare.  When she is attacked, however, who in Magano will help her?

Meanwhile, on Tsuchimikado Island, Rokuro and his recently formed “Enmado Family,” prepare for their first mission into Magano.  This is the “Yuto Punitive Expedition.”  Rokuro hopes to get revenge for the killing of his friends long ago, but he and his family are really just support for the expedition.  Well, that is until everything goes... unexpected.

[This volume includes bonus concept art and comics, “Shueisha Jump SQ: “Airweave Collaborator Project, Special Chapter!”]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Twin Star Exorcists manga is usually in a constant state of flux, as creator Yoshiaki Sukeno introduces new characters and new subplots at a steady rate.  Sometimes, however, the narrative goes still and focuses intensely on violence and combat.

Twin Star Exorcists Graphic Novel Volume 15 focuses on the stars, Rokuro and Benio.  Each is entering one of the most intense states of their struggle, and Vol. 15 is the payoff for longtime readers.  I can only say that this is a not-to-be-missed volume, as it introduces some great things to come.

Once again, Tetsuichiro Miyaki (translation) and Bryant Turnage (English adaptation) deliver a strong English adaptation with another ending that will force readers to come back for more.  And Stephen Dutro's lettering is perfect for this volume of utter surprises and loud shocks.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of action-fantasy, shonen manga will want to try the “Shonen Jump” manga, Twin Star Exorcists.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: WE NEVER LEARN Volume 9

WE NEVER LEARN, VOL. 9
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Taishi Tsutsui
TRANSLATION: Camellia Nieh
LETTERS: Erika Terriquez, Snir Aharon
EDITORS: John Bae; David Brothers
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0951-1; paperback (April 2020); Rated “T+” for “Teen Plus”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

We Never Learn is a Japanese shonen manga series written and illustrated by Taishi Tsutsui.  It began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in February 2017.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since December 2018.

We Never Learn focuses on Nariyuki Yuiga, a high school senior who comes from an impoverished family.  He is eager to secure a full scholarship, known as “the Special VIP Recommendation,” to college before he graduates.  His principal agrees to give him the scholarship, but there is one stipulation.  Yuiga must tutor the three smartest girls in school:  Rizu Ogata, Fumino Furuhashi, and, Uruka Takemoto, so that they can get into their target colleges.  However, each girl wants to focus on a subject area in which she is practically an utter failure!

As We Never Learn, Vol. 9 (“The Flow of [ X ] Never End...”; Chapter 70 to 78) opens, Yuiga and Ogata are going to have a study session, but find that study hall is packed with students.  Ogata comes up with idea of using the empty biology lab, but it's supposedly haunted.  When evidence of an actual haunting manifests, Yuiga is determined that the easily frightened Ogata not see the haunting – even if he has to act inappropriately to keep her from doing so.

Then, the teacher, Mafuyu Kirisu, is substituting in a home economics class, but Kirisu is bad at cooking on a whole new level.  When Yuiga attempts to help her with her cooking, the kitchen becomes a place of inappropriate behavior.  Plus, Uruka gets some life-changing news that may affect her relationship with Yuiga.  Plus, what happens when Yuiga gets a hold of the wrong gift bag.

THE LOWDOWN:  The We Never Learn manga blends academics and teen romance, being a kind of high school comic romp and romance.  Like the Nisekoi: False Love manga, We Never Learn features a boy with several girls from which to choose.

We Never Learn Graphic Novel Volume 9 does not offer any story arcs, rather, it is a collection of single-chapter episodes of comic situations.  We Never Learn is a sitcom of a thousand situations, and most of them are quite funny.  Even without a multi-chapter story in Vol. 9, creator Taishi Tsutsui manages to drop a bombshell that will shape the overall narrative moving forward.  Translator Camellia Nieh once again does stellar work in bringing out the funny in this delightful series that seems to have as close to a perfect English-language translation of a manga comedy that we can get.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of shonen high school comedies will want to learn about the Shonen Jump title, We Never Learn.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: DEMON SLAYER: Kimetsu No Yaiba Volume 12

DEMON SLAYER: KIMETSU NO YAIBA, VOL. 12
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

MANGAKA: Koyoharu Gotouge
TRANSLATION: John Werry
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Steve “Stan!” Brown
LETTERS: John Hunt
EDITOR: Mike Montesa
ISBN: 978-1-9747-1112-3; paperback (May 2020); Rated “T” for “Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Koyoharu Gotoge.  The manga was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from February 2016 to May 2020.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since July 2018.

Demon Slayer is set in Japan's Taisho era (1912 to 1926).  It focuses on Tanjiro Kamado, a kindhearted boy who sells charcoal in order to support his mother and four siblings.  After one particularly taxing trip to sell coal, Tanjiro returns to his home in the forest and finds his family slaughtered.  He discovers that a younger sibling, his sister Nezuko, has herself been transformed into a demon by the unknown demon that killed his family.  Tanjiro becomes a Demon Slayer in order to find and destroy that demon, Muzan Kibutsuji.

As Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba, Vol. 12 (Chapters 98 to 106; entitled “The Upper Ranks Gather”) opens, there is trouble in the demon world.  With the death of the “Upper-Rank 6” demon, Gyutaro, and his younger demon-sister, Daki, for the first time in 100 years, the upper ranks of Muzan Kibutsuji's “Twelve Kizuki” are not full.  So Kibutsuji sends the remaining upper-rank demons on a mission, but what is that mission?

Meanwhile, Tanjiro has regained consciousness after being unconscious for two months because of the injuries he sustained in the battle against Gyutaro.  While he recovers, Tanjiro travels to the mysterious and hidden “village of the sword-smiths” in order to get his damaged katana repaired by Haganezuka, the man who forged the sword.  But once Tanjiro is there, he has strange experiences.

THE LOWDOWN:  The Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba manga has become one of my favorite graphic novel series.  It is, however, hard to keep up with the series as VIZ is currently publishing it on a monthly basis.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Graphic Novel Volume 12, like Vols. 7 to 11, is among the series' best entries.  Creator Koyoharu Gotouge ended a long and intense story arc in Vol. 11, but readers will find themselves right back at the beginnings of another mystery.  Simply, put Demon Slayer is a joy to read because Tanjiro's struggle continues in a way that makes for great reading.

John Werry's translation and Steve “Stan!” Brown's English-language adaptation deliver an engaging read, as always, that brings out all that is alluring about Demon Slayer's characters.  With this new mystery, the allure is as strong as ever.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of demon-fighting heroes will want to read the Shonen Jump title, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba.

A+
10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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#IReadsYou Review: THE PROMISED NEVERLAND Volume 15

THE PROMISED NEVERLAND, VOL. 15
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia

STORY: Kaiu Shirai
ART: Posuka Demizu
TRANSLATION: Satsuki Yamashita
LETTERS: Mark McMurray
EDITOR: Alexis Kirsch
ISBN: 978-1-9747-1499-5; paperback (June 2020); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
192pp, B&W, $9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 U.K.

The Promised Neverland is a Japanese manga series written by Kaiu Shirai and illustrated by Posuka Demizu.  It was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from August 2016 to June 2020.  VIZ Media has been publishing an English-language edition of the manga as a paperback graphic novel series under its “Shonen Jump” imprint since December 2017.

The Promised Neverland opens at Grace Field House, an orphanage where the children have a wonderful life... or so it seems.  The orphanage's three brightest children are Emma, Norman, and Ray, all 11-years-old as the story begins.  Like the other orphans, they enjoy the daily studying and exams, and also the delicious food and plentiful playtime.  However, the children's loving, but stern caretaker, “Mom,” hides the fact that everything is not what it seems, a fact these three bright children will discover upon turning 12.

As The Promised Neverland, Vol. 15 (Chapters 125 to 133; entitled “Welcome to the Entrance”) opens,  Norman prepares to make a deal with the dissident demon, Lord Geelan.  Their union would form a conspiracy to take down both the demons' royal house and their five “Regent Houses.”  As Norman and his group prepare their plan to eradicate all demons, Emma searches for her own path, and it does not involve the destruction of all demons.  Ray and Emma decide to travel to the “Seven Walls” in a bid to reach the human world.

Meanwhile, the demon Queen Legravalima meets with the demon regents:  Duke Yverk, Lord Bayon, Lord Dozza, Lady Noum, and Lord Pupo.  They gather to discuss the destruction and the chaos that plagues the demons.  While, they plot, however, the real threat advances.

THE LOWDOWN:  In Japan, The Promised Neverland manga has come an end via its serialization in the Japanese edition of Weekly Shonen Jump.  In North America, the collection of the manga continues to be one of the best graphic novels series for young adult readers.

The Promised Neverland Graphic Novel Volume 15 is a riveting read, although it is not one of the graphic novel series' best entries.  Still, I quickly read through this volume so that I could experience the surprises and the shocking reveals.  Vol. 15 is one of those volumes that prepares readers for the fireworks to come.  It is not the beginning of a paradigm shift for this series the way Vol. 14 was.

Translator Satsuki Yamashita does a good job with the heavy dialogue of this volume, and Mark McMurray's lettering paces the off-beat rhythm.  Both contributors seem to be preparing for the fireworks to come.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers of dark fantasy graphic novels will find a terrifying story in Shonen Jump's The Promised Neverland.

A
8.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.



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