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Reviewed by Dan Polley “Mushi” are normally little bugs or insects, but in this manga, the term is used to refer to small spirit creatures. These creatures can sometimes inhabit the bodies of humans, unleashing havoc on them — and, most of the time, unknown to them, too. But there are some who are aware of the creatures and Ginko is one of them in Yuki Urushibara’s “Mushishi.” Ginko is a sort of medicine man who treats humans infected with mushi, only instead of staying with a tribe of people, Ginko wanders around the country. As he wanders, he looks for opportunities to examine more mushi, and he desperately seeks to learn and satiate his appetite for more knowledge about the fantastically devilish creatures. Urushibara’s depiction of Ginko is absolutely perfect. He is mysterious, helpful, a rogue — and, at times, selfish. While the idea of mushi is a fantastic one, especially for this older-age orientated manga, it’s Ginko’s personality that really makes this manga shine. Granted, this is a series that should be targeted to an older crowd, and Ginko’s character is a helpful trait in trying to reach that crowd. Urushibara writes a note in this first volume: “Ever since I was a child, I’ve always loved the old stories.” And it’s apparent in this volume that that is exactly the path he sets forth on, starting with page one. There is no sign of modern amenities in the volume, and it helps to give the book an ethereal feel, almost as if the reader is out wandering with Ginko. The depiction of the mushi is another strong point for the volume. Weaving their abilities to affect humans into the plot also tended to give the book the feel Urushibara was attempting to create. It made it seem like a tale passed down from generation to generation while roasting dinner over an open campfire. The art holds the book back, to some extent. There could be cleaner sequences in parts, but overall, it really adds to the feel of the manga. “Mushishi” is a book that is sure to appeal to older manga readers. Those in that category should definitely think about picking it up if it’s still available. Interested in writing for MangaLife? We're always looking for talented reviewers and columnists, so drop us a line! Charles Webb Editor-in-Chief, MangaLife.com |
1 September 2010
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