Kagurabachi, Vol. 1: A familiar Tale carried by Striking Art
At its core, this is a revenge story. There’s nothing groundbreaking or new about it, but the art truly elevates what would otherwise be a familiar story. The style felt familiar, almost like a homecoming. The art redeemed this story for me and ensured I kept turning pages eagerly.
Breaking Stereotypes: A Deep Dive into ‘Squire’ by Nadia Shammas and Sara Alfageeh
Aiza’s journey is masterfully brought to life, creating an experience that is both personal and expansive. Aiza feels trapped, caught between who she is told she is and who she wants to be. Her future isn’t hers to decide, and this doesn’t sit well with her. When an opportunity presents itself, she knows that this is the chance she has been wishing for.
Beyond the Darkness: Aleksander Lost in Bardugo's 'Demon in the Wood'
Demon in the Wood explores the history of the series’ core antagonist, Aleksander. A shadow-summoner from a world where magic is entirely shunned. People like Aleksander and his mother are called witches by ordinary folk—but among themselves, they go by the name Grisha. A term for people who can manipulate certain elements: water, air, or fire. There are those with the power to stop the beating of a heart. But Aleksander and his kin, they control darkness.
Back to Pallet Town: Pokémon Adventures' Unexpected Gore and Heartfelt Charm
Pokémon Adventures, Vol. 01, by Hidenori Kusaka and illustrated by Mato, dives headfirst into the nostalgia of the Pokémon world. Growing up in the '90s and early '00s, a slight obsession with Pokémon was practically a rite of passage, and even now, that love for the pocket monster universe only seems to intensify. So, continuing my quest through the library's manga collection, I eagerly grabbed Pokémon Adventures when I saw it.
Everyday Magic in 'My Beijing' by Nie Jun: A Graphic Novel Review
The story follows Yu’er and her grandfather in a Hutong in Beijing, China, as they experience four interconnected stories: Yu’er’s Dream, Bug Paradise, The Letter, and Kids at Heart. Each of these tales showcases the magic found in the everyday, with quiet moments of wonder woven through. I personally really enjoyed Kids at Heart, as its endearing and tender nature stood out in a way that really resonated with me. My partner was particularly excited to read Bug Paradise because of the... well, bugs.
Unpacking Beauty and Identity in ‘Plain Jane and the Mermaid’ by Vera Brosgol
Books aimed at a younger demographic have always fascinated me. When you learn that a piece of media was created with the author’s younger self in mind, it feels like you are given access to a distant memory, a glimpse into the Pensieve, so to speak.
Captivating Grief and Memory: A Review of Goodbye, Eri by Tatsuki Fujimoto
The art itself is sharp and distinct, with crisp lines that perfectly complement the dynamic flow of the story. Fujimoto’s ability to balance empty spaces, atmospheric elements, and the subtle details of a character’s surroundings creates an experience that feels natural yet emotionally charged.
The Unsettling Art of Junji Ito: Tales that Haunt the Mind
Reading this particular work was both mesmerising and unnerving. Ito’s talent for weaving the macabre into a grounded, almost familiar world is unmatched. He creates a tether between the mundane and the otherworldly, pulling readers into a narrative that feels both surreal and terrifyingly plausible.
“My Love Mix-Up! Volume 2" by Wataru Hinekure: A Heartfelt Continuation of Teenage Crushes
My Love Mix-Up! Volume 2 picks up where the first left off, as Aoki finds himself developing feelings for Ida. The catalyst? Hashimoto’s eraser, of course. Back in volume 1, Aoki borrowed the eraser, which had Ida’s name on it. When it slipped out of his hands, Ida saw the name and the mix-up began. Now, the story continues, bringing even more charm and unexpected twists.
“My Love Mix-Up” by Wataru Hinekure: A Perfectly Hilarious Love Mix-Up
My Love Mix-Up by Wataru Hinekure is truly unexpected in the best way possible. As the title suggests, this is a love mix-up at its finest. What’s particularly interesting is that the realization of the mix-up doesn’t hit until later in the book, keeping readers hooked as they wait for the moment of clarity.