This is a really engaging and fantastical story, that keeps gently nudging you forward in the plot, weaving elements of Japanese folklore, giving it an ethereal and magical feel that matches the strikingly beautiful world that it is set in, that may also feel somewhat recognizable to those familiar with Studio Ghibli's 'Princess Mononoke', and Capcom's 'Okami' video game.
The
artwork by Carita Lupatelli is wondrously illustrated, as seen in her
beautiful cover art for the series also, and full of details that the
comic panels demand without being over burdened, complimenting the
mystical, as well as the human elements of the story.
'Izuna' spans over four volumes, with the first two; 'Kamigakushi' and 'Yamibushi' following Aki as she grows up and has to deal with the initial threat of the Noggo, with the last two volumes; 'Namaenashi' and 'Wunjo', skipping forward in time and finishing off the threat. There are also intriguing subplots blended into the main story, keeping things interesting outside of the fantastical main story.
It's
an engaging read with good set of characters in a beautifully rendered
mystical world, and with the ending kind of left open, suggesting the
possiblities of future stories, it's a world that I'd like to return to. If you're a fan of the Studio Ghibli films, especially 'Princess Mononoke', then this is essential reading.
and other comic and book stores.
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