In some ways, I don’t really need to write another review of One Piece. Its virtues remain the same—a likeable core cast of characters who show how far friends will go to help friends and Oda’s sure hand guiding what might otherwise devolve into scenes of chaos—as does its one chief flaw: a tendency for fights to go on and on. And yet, I enjoyed this trio of volumes so much … [Read more...] about One Piece 22-24 by Eiichiro Oda: B+
Shounen
Black Cat 15-17 by Kentaro Yabuki: B
The last time I reviewed Black Cat, I said, “There are six volumes left of this series, and if they’re comprised of a huge epic battle between the sweepers and Creed and his goons, I think I could be quite happy indeed.” Well, I was wrong. Oh, my prediction as to the contents of these volumes was correct, but I wouldn't describe myself as “quite happy” with the results. Not … [Read more...] about Black Cat 15-17 by Kentaro Yabuki: B
Saiyuki 1-3 by Kazuya Minekura: B
Although Saiyuki's sequels and prequel ran/run in magazines aimed at a female audience, the original was serialized in GFantasy, which, as MJ pointed out in her Black Butler review, features many shounen series created by and appealing to women. Therefore, while I associate Saiyuki with intense female fandom, it still technically qualifies for inclusion in the Shounen Sundays … [Read more...] about Saiyuki 1-3 by Kazuya Minekura: B
Claymore 1-2 by Norihigo Yago: B+
With the ability to take over human bodies and blend in with ordinary people, monsters known as yoma have a (relatively) easy time finding humans to feed upon. The only weapons humans have against them are the “Claymores,” humans who have taken yoma flesh and blood into their own bodies in order to gain the power to defeat the monsters. Only females are able to successfully … [Read more...] about Claymore 1-2 by Norihigo Yago: B+
Cheeky Angel 19-20 by Hiroyuki Nishimori: B-
With these two volumes, Cheeky Angel comes to a close. Although it's a bit rushed, the conclusion is ultimately fitting. Warning: spoilers ahead. Earlier in the series, the gang thwarted plans to marry Miki off to a slimy family associate by pretending that she and Genzo are in love. The rejected suitor, eager to solidify ties with Miki's rich family, holds a grudge and … [Read more...] about Cheeky Angel 19-20 by Hiroyuki Nishimori: B-