Comic Corner Roundup: January
Comic Corner Roundup is a bi-monthly segment that compiles mini-reviews of comics, graphic novels, and manga that I’ve read recently. Here are my reviews for the month of January which includes a witch’s journey and a magical shop that grants wishes.
Witchlight by Jessi Zabarsky (2020)
Lelek is a witch.
That’s all Sanja knows when she meets Lelek in the marketplace. But Lelek is hiding something — and as her life begins to intersect with Sanja’s, all that she’s kept to herself starts to come to light.
Secrets, friendship, and magic all come together as Lelek gets closer and closer to uncovering the truth about her past. . . .
Review: Witchlight is a beautifully illustrated and intricate adventure of two very different woman who from a strong bond. The story is adventure filled sparking excitement within the reader especially with the immersive landscape/scenery artwork. Besides it being a story about going on a quest, it’s also a tale of confronting your past and healing from it.
As Lelek and Sanja traverse through the lands they face many obstacles that make them stronger. Though action-packed at times, I really enjoyed the quieter moments of the story where the characters just get to be themselves. I felt like this story is missing something ( I just can’t put my finger on it) but overall it’s a cozy, enjoyable read.
Final Verdict:
Yume Kira Dream Shoppe by Aqua Mizuto (2007)
There’s a bright and shiny magical place up in the sky where people’s dreams come true. For a fair exchange, the shop’s proprietor Lin will gladly turn those dreams into reality. But be careful what you wish for, dear reader. Sometimes the most passionate desires can bring about the biggest heartbreak! Four short stories of fantasy and imagination–recommended for everyone who’s ever wished for a dream to come true.
They say that any dream can be made true in exchange for something dear to you.
The Yume Kira Dream Shoppe flies through the dusk sky as Rin the shopkeeper listens for wishes that travel on the wind. With the help of assistant Alpha, Rin uses the magical wares of the Dream Shoppe to make desires a reality…but at a price.
Review: This is a manga that feels a bit dates, but not in a bad way. It gives an old school magical shojo vibe that is reminiscent of older manga I’ve read. Rin is a shop owner who owns a mystical place in the clouds and can grant wishes for its customers. As with mote wish based stories there is a hint of the message “be careful what you wish for” but it is in no means malicious.
These tales are whimsical and lighthearted each one giving a life lesson for those who have wish they desire in their hearts. Like with some one shot story collections some of the stories are more memorable than others. The artwork is dream like matching the many fantasy elements included in the manga. This is a cute, quick read that will appeal to shojo fans!
Final Verdict:
What comics, graphic novels or manga have you read lately? Share your thoughts in the comment section below. If you have any recommendations, feel free to share those as well.
I know what you mean about some feeling a little dated but still enjoyable. I’ve just borrowed the first volume of Aya to reread (Marguerite Abouet) on a whim and I’m enjoying it. An article online about the new volume (7th?) sparked the craving!
Aya has been on my list for the longest time. I didn’t realize the series was still ongoing as well.