Dive into the Marvels of Single Volume Comics
The comic industry is buzzing with two undeniable truths. First, Dog Man continues to dominate pop culture with its canine crusades. Second, the global love for manga and Webtoons is surging, capturing the imagination of readers everywhere.
To celebrate this trend, we’re launching a new journey—Marvels in Single Volumes. Our mission? To bring you weekly recommendations of handpicked manga and Webtoons. Join us as we explore enchanting fairy tales, romantic escapades with hitmen, and encounters with kaiju.
Discovering the Hidden Gem: Raven Saga
One standout story in the world of Webtoons is Chihiro Howe’s Raven Saga. This tale holds a special place, not only for its captivating narrative but also for its originality in a crowded field.
The story follows Wen, a raven-haired damsel snatched from her peaceful farm by a raven-powered kidnapper. To rescue her grandmother, Mother Goose, Wen teams up with the cursed prince Corliss and his bodyguard, Theo, who has been transformed into a barn swallow. Together, they journey through the fairy-tale lands of Fablewald and Talehurst, encountering beloved characters like Puss in Boots and Snow White.
What sets Raven Saga apart is its connection to Chihiro’s other works, creating a rich, interconnected world. The artistry, enhanced by the legendary Attsuhiro, transitions from detailed backgrounds to vibrant watercolored characters. Each chapter deepens the story, making Raven Saga a must-read.
Touch Within the Abyss: A Tale of Love and Redemption
Moyori Mori’s debut, Touch Within the Abyss, offers a powerful story of love and redemption. The narrative follows Chinatsu, a hitman haunted by his past, and Kasumi, a blind young man burdened by life’s hardships. When their paths cross, they bring light to each other’s lives, leading to acceptance, redemption, and love.
Their relationship is built on shared strengths hidden as weaknesses. Chinatsu struggles with his inability to kill, while Kasumi faces the challenges of his disability. Together, they craft a story of resilience, leading to a beautifully bittersweet ending.
Exploring Otherness in The Guy Who Turned Kaiju
Kazuki Minamoto’s The Guy Who Turned Kaiju presents a unique narrative about otherness and identity. High schooler Takashi transforms into a human-monster hybrid after facing rejection and homophobia from his crush, his teacher Kuroda. This transformation not only shields him from bullies but also sparks Kuroda’s conflicting desire to normalize him.
Minamoto explores queer experiences, self-denial, acceptance, and the concept of normality with depth and sensitivity. Takashi’s journey serves as a powerful exploration of the complexities of identity and the human-monster dilemma.
Join Us on Marvels in Single Volumes
As we conclude this week’s selections, we invite you to join us on Marvels in Single Volumes. Each week, we’ll uncover stories that challenge norms, test boundaries, and explore the beautiful, bittersweet complexities of life through manga and Webtoons.
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