Natsume’s Book of Friends Volume 1 by Yuki Midorikawa

Anything with the word “book” in the title always attracts me, and Japanese spirits (yokai) are one of my fascinations. Nothing like a combination to peak my interest!

Summary: Takashi Natsume can see spirits and demons, a gift passed down from his mysterious grandmother, Reiko. When he accidentally breaks the seal on a powerful spirit, he learns that Reiko kept a book with all the names of the demons and spirits she defeated, binding them to her will. Now the owner of the book, Takashi finds himself hounded and threatened by these otherworldly creatures as they try to get their names back – or take control of the book itself. So Takashi sets out on a journey to return each and every name to its rightful owner.

Reality Check: The art is soft but dark – just the right balance for a tale about yokai. The characters are interesting, and the story enjoyable to follow. Each chapter pretty much stands by itself, with the central characters and plot woven through. I always enjoy manga like this because you can return to read random chapters over and over again without feeling that you need to read all the volumes in order.

Favorite Character: Nyanko-Sensei – in his small form he resides in a lucky cat statue, and in his large form he is a magnificent and beautiful cat/dog creature. He had me at “cat.” ;)

Conclusion: A pretty good read – this was my second time actually, and I enjoyed it as much as the first. I would read more volumes if the library purchased them. Definitely a good read for stormy days, with its melancholy mood.

out of 4 Paws Up

Genre: Young Adult Urban Fantasy

Will Supervillains Be On the Final? by Naomi Novik

Volume 1 of the Liberty Vocational series, illustrated by Yishan Li. Found this at the library. I’m always willing to give American manga a chance.
 

Summary: Sixteen-year-old Leah Taymore, able to manipulate atoms, is admitted to Liberty Vocational, a private college for budding superheroes to learn their craft. But it seems that no matter what she tries her hand at, disaster is the only result, from turning the lawn to cement or flooding the campus bathrooms. Is something wrong with her powers – or is she being sabotaged? After a project goes wrong and injuries a friend, Leah wonders if she can ever do anything right. She is sidelined by the school, even when a river threatens to flood the area – but there’s nothing like lives at stake to bring out the best in anyone.

Reality Check: It was a light and enjoyable read. The art is simple and pleasant, the story interesting, and the characters are fun to follow. It reminded me of Amy Reeder’s Fool’s Gold (although the stories have nothing in common).

Conclusion: I would recommend it, and if the library gets any more volumes I will definitely read them.

out of 4 Paws Up

Genre: Young Adult Superhero