Unico vol 1 by Osamu Tezuka

Vol 1: Awakening, adapted by Samuel Sattin, illustrated by Gurihiru
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​A brave and inquisitive young unicorn named Unico who befriends anyone he comes across draws the ire of the jealous goddess Venus because of his influence on humanity. She banishes him but Zephyr takes pity and hides Unico throughout time, wiping his memory to hide him from the vengeful goddess. In one such trip through time, Unico finds himself in the care of the Neighborhood Watch Cat Chloe who hopes to find herself a witch, but secretly wishes she could be human to fully fend for herself. The two end up helping an older woman in a small village while trying to steer clear of Byron, a local hunter who has been picking off animals for his trophy room.​

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​This is a beautiful adaptation of a classic series and a great way to bring Unico to new audiences. Younger readers who haven't watched the cartoon won't be lost reading this new series as the beginning sets up Unico's plight with Venus, while this story picks up as if Unico's previous adventures also happened, as is the beauty of a protagonist with memory loss.  This title isn't all fluff though, as Sattin tugs at the heartstrings with Chloe's emotional pleas to be useful. There are some questions to be had about what era this is set in as we seem to progress backwards in clothing and mannerisms as the story moves along, but it's a minor note in what is largely an entertaining story. The adorable illustrations and bright pastel colors throughout will definitely appeal to younger readers, so this is an all ages manga that will find broad appeal in elementary libraries.

Sara's Rating: 9/10
Suitability Level: Grades 3-6

Publisher: Graphix
Publication Date: August 6, 2024
ISBN: 9781339036342 (Paperback)

​Tags: Rating: 9/10, Suitability: Elementary School, OEL Manga, Manga, Adaptations, Fantasy, Mythology