not simple
A manga about the unlucky life of a man named Ian.
I love Natsume Ono’s work but I was surprised with the somber tone of this book. It follows the life and death of Ian, a man who’s very existence was never really wanted. The story starts with his end and then begins with his childhood. The complex circumstances that fill Ian’s life lead to tragedy but Ono is still able to insert moments of strong relationships.
A sad but good tale. It’s available in English from VIZ media.
~dakazu
La Quinta Camera
A manga about 4 residents who share a living space in Italy and the different roommates that rent the 5th room.
This is a wonderful story about people and their relationships. Natsume Ono is a master of making interesting characters and portraying their interactions to make for an entertaining and heartfelt read.
Short and sweet. Recommended.
~dakazu
ACCA: 13-Territory Inspection Dept.
A manga about a special government inspection committee that oversees the affairs within fictional kingdom of Dowa. As agent Jean Otus travels around the 13 territories he gets wrapped up in a plot to over throw the monarchy.
A terrific series. We reviewed it on an episode. This manga made me fall in love with Natsume Ono’s distinctive art style. I love manga artists that are able to craft dense worlds and Ono gets full marks. Each territory has it’s own unique culture and environment that is inspired from real world locations. Yakkara is a tiny but rich gambling district that exists within the larger an poor dessert territory of Pranetta: an obvious reference to Las Vegas in Nevada. There’s even influence on the people living within these places; Residents of Jumõku are taller due to the plentiful agriculture.
It’s available in English from Yen Press and I highly suggest you check it out for yourself. Also the anime has one of the best opening themes.
~dakazu
Lady and Oldman
Natusme Ono’s new manga. It’s an interesting tale about a man who finishes serving a 100 year prison sentence and a young girl who helps him. They team up to become couriers for dangerous packages in 1960′s Los Angeles. I really love Natusme Ono works that are set in America. I want to read more!
~dakazu