Fiction Lab This Week!

A New Manga Phenomenon Takes The Stage

The comics universe is undergoing a seismic shift. Two core truths emerge in this evolution: "Dog Man" is arguably today’s most influential comic. Concurrently, manga and Webtoons (vertical scroll comics) are capturing audiences like never before. Comics Beat is embracing this wave with "Beat’s Bizarre Adventure." Each week, a trio of writers will dive into beloved books and series from Japan, Korea, and beyond, introducing a blend of romance, optimism in chaos, and youthful rebellion.

A Side Character’s Love Story

Amid the chaos of romance, "A Side Character’s Love Story" shines with sincerity. Nobuko, the manga’s protagonist, timidly navigates life. She works at a convenience store, riddled with self-doubt and social anxiety. Yet, unexpectedly, she finds herself infatuated with Irie, a colleague. Despite her tendency to overthink, she dreams of leaving her sideline role, daring to be the lead in her own romantic saga.

Akane Tamura, the brilliant mind behind this manga, crafts an emotive love story. It defies typical shojo manga expectations, chronicling a slow-burning love well past a graduation ceremony. Tamura intricately explores a world of simple joys and trials through Nobuko and Irie. The manga requires patience but offers fulfillment for those who bask in its gentle rhythm.

Readers who thrive on relatable journeys will find a treasure in this narrative. However, this series isn’t for everyone. If you crave gradual, realistic relationships depicted with cute artistry, this title is tailor-made for you. What if you can’t relate to their pacing? You might miss the essence. Yet, the exploration of varied human traits in fiction can itself be intriguing. In a world of "what-ifs," we find a stimulating examination of character growth and relationships.

ZOM100: Bucket List of the Dead

Imagine being entrapped in an uninspired job, dreaming of a different life. When a zombie apocalypse arrives, it might seem more liberating than terrifying. "ZOM100: Bucket List of the Dead" takes this premise and runs with it, offering a fresh twist on survival narratives.

Haro Aso, the writer, and Kotaro Takata, the artist, deliver a comedy horror saga bursting with life. Watch Akira Tendo, a former office drone, embrace a world overrun by zombies with an adventurous spirit. He pens a bucket list, prioritizing experiences over confinement. Suddenly, surviving amidst chaos becomes more intriguing than his mundane past.

Contrary to typical apocalyptic tales, this one celebrates life. Akira forges a path with fellow survivors, each contributing personal goals. From romantic dreams to bizarre aspirations, they pursue life boldly. This positive twist invigorates the genre, proving that even amid disaster, inspiring stories can unfold.

Tokyo Revengers: A Journey Through Time

"Tokyo Revengers" boldly strides through the annals of time. Takemichi Hanagaki, the main character, is cast back twelve years to save his girlfriend. His journey, set against the backdrop of street gang rivalries, unfolds a narrative filled with heart.

Ken Wakui’s gripping storytelling blends time travel with gang drama. Takemichi, although physically weak, is noble and resilient. He finds a gang in his past with an honorable vision, led by Mikey. What began as a mission to protect his girlfriend morphs into an epic tale of camaraderie and redemption.

This manga doesn’t shy away from complexity. Its hero defies traditional machismo with sensitivity and courage. Some readers critique Takemichi’s vulnerability, yet it adds depth and humanity to his heroism. Every choice he makes constructs a tentative dance with fate, prompting existential questions: Can everyone be saved? Is time mutable?

The narrative utilizes a Buddhist symbol for Toman, the gang, misinterpreted by Western eyes. Context is vital. The manji emblem signifies Buddha’s footprints, a reminder of its peaceful origins before being misappropriated in modern history.

Explore more recommendations every week with "Beat’s Bizarre Adventure" as we traverse captivating worlds of manga and webtoons. Complete your journey with these tales, resonating with profound themes and vibrant art styles.