Mini reviews: Manga Classics: Pride & Prejudice; Black Bird, Vol. 1; Blue Exorcist, Vol. 1 (Blue Exorcist / Ao no Exorcist #1)

Manga Classics: Pride & Prejudice (Manga Classics)

by Stacy King (Editor), Po Tse (Illustrations), Jane Austen
Manga, classics
Paperback, 377 pages
Published August 19th 2014 by Udon Entertainment

My rating: 3.5

Adapting a beloved classic like Pride and Prejudice into the graphic novel is an excellent idea. This format is a shoujo manga and is read from back to front. The art is  lovely in spots, but I found some of it typical to the genre when I was expecting something a little more detailed or outstanding. The characters we love are here from Mr. Darcy to Lizzie to the Bennet clan. Fans of the original material will notice glaring omissions and changes. The proper Victorian mores have been given a more contemporary feel. Some of the manga tropes I find excessive (and annoying) are used here which gave the story a more lightweight and humorous touch. I've read and love the original material and this Manga Classic is a welcome addition to the adaptation market. Austen purists may have another opinion but this could help introduce the beloved author to another generation of readers who may not pick up the book until they're older.

Black Bird, Vol. 1 (Black Bird #1)
by Kanoko Sakurakouji, JN Productions (Translator), Pancha Diaz (Editor)

Manga, paranormal
Paperback/eBook, 194 pages
Published August 4th 2009 by VIZ Media LLC (first published January 1st 2007)

My rating: 2

Oh, where do I begin? Cute artwork, sometimes visually striking, but the story itself is not particularly strong nor are the characters developed much. Misao is a meek, pretty girl who discovers her blood is attractive to demons. She had a childhood friend named Kyo who moved away years ago and now he's returned. He wants to make Misao his bride because he happens to be a demon and she is special. Misao loves him and he's mean and downright abusive to her. He forces her to marry him (how romantic) and has an ulterior motive. The art is lovely but I had problems with the story.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 1 (Blue Exorcist / Ao no Exorcist #1)
by Kazue Kato
Manga, Fantasy
Paperback, 198 pages
Published April 5th 2011 by VIZ Media LLC (first published August 4th 2009)
My rating: 3

I've watched the anime so I'm familiar with the story. The manga does vary from the anime and I enjoyed this first book in the series. Seeing Rin and how he learned about his background and who his true father is was interesting. The art is cool, strong and vibrant. Seeing demons and discovering your dad is Lucifer makes Rin make changes in his life, including his decision to become an exorcist.