I'm thrilled to announce that I've been invited to contribute reviews to the Manga Recon section of PopCultureShock. This is my first review for them, and it was originally published here. Carlos Santos from ANN has also written a review of this title, and brings up some points left out of mine, so you may want to check his out, as well. It’s the 30th century and all of the … [Read more...] about Time Stranger Kyoko 1 by Arina Tanemura: B-
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I.O.N by Arina Tanemura: B-
From the back cover: Ion Tsuburagi chants the letters of her first name as a charm to bring good luck when she needs it. Then she meets Mikado Hourai, the president of the Psychic Powers Research Society at school, and touches a mysterious substance he's been developing. Now chanting 'I-O-N' gives her telekinetic powers! Review: I don't normally comment on covers, but I.O.N … [Read more...] about I.O.N by Arina Tanemura: B-
Honey and Clover 2 by Chica Umino: A
From the back cover: Love is never easy for our heroes. Takemoto is forced to confront his resentment of his stepfather and his own feelings of being cast adrift, while Mayama and Ayu flounder in their unrequited loves and Morita faces the prospect of being held back another year. Review: Reading Honey and Clover for me is similar to reading Sand Chronicles in that it induces … [Read more...] about Honey and Clover 2 by Chica Umino: A
Skip Beat! 13 by Yoshiki Nakamura: B+
From the back cover: Ren's acting test is about to begin, with his entire future hanging in the balance, and he's managed to make his leading lady Itsumi mad at him. Rather than confront him directly, Itsumi decides to hit him where it hurts. Will she sabotage his test, or will Ren be able to get it together and use his legendary acting ability to lead her through the … [Read more...] about Skip Beat! 13 by Yoshiki Nakamura: B+
Sand Chronicles 2 by Hinako Ashihara: A
From the back cover: Just when Ann has adjusted to life in the countryside—and even has a boyfriend!—her father invites her to live with him in Tokyo. Now she must choose between a father she hardly knows and a young man she is just beginning to know. But she soon discovers that they aren't the only ones vying for her affections! Review: In a recent post on his blog, David … [Read more...] about Sand Chronicles 2 by Hinako Ashihara: A