[Comic Sunday #12] Bleach Vol 1: Strawberry and the Soul Reapers

Comic Sundays are an American newspaper tradition where new comic strips are published weekly. At Becoming Books this tradition will continue focusing on comic strips, comics and graphic novels appealing to young adult and adult audiences.

Story by and Illustrations by Tite Kubo
YA Fiction – Graphic Novel, Manga, Fantasy Paranormal | 200 pages
May 4, 2004 // Shonen Jump Manga, VIZ Media

Purchased personal copy. – Opinions are my own, review policy here.

Hot-tempered 15-year-old Ichigo Kurosaki, the hero of the popular fantasy-adventure Bleach , has the unsettling ability to see spirits who are unable to rest in peace. His sixth sense leads him to Rukia, a Soul Reaper who destroys Hollows (soul-devouring monsters) and ensures the deceased find repose with the Soul Society. When she's injured in battle, Rukia transfers her sword and much of her power to Ichigo, whose spiritual energy makes him a formidable substitute Soul Reaper. But the orange-haired teenager isn't sure he wants the job: too many risks and moral dilemmas.

This is my first magna read and a hugely popular series (There are currently 66 books). I was inspired by Shelly from Books and Writing to pick Bleach up. So here I am!

Illustrations
Illustrations are all black and white, in a traditional magna style showing off a lot of detail. The detail pays off by displaying a wide range of emotions, tempo and character. Some of the sound effect lettering was a bit much for me taking away from the overall frame.

Story
I really, really enjoyed this story line that was broken up nicely into seven episodes. The plot line moves quickly without sacrificing the introduction of our protagonist Strawberry and gives his character depth as he explores his paranormal responsibilities. Ends on an annoying cliff hanger, like mid-scene cliff hanger. The writing style is clean and in line with teen slang. Sometimes the writing comes off as juvenile but Ichigo/Strawberry is only 15 so it's expected on some levels.

Why I'll keep reading Bleach:
I'm invested in the characters. I want to know more about Ichigo (and his family, especially his dad), Soul Reapers, Hollows, this parakeet and a whole bunch more. I'm hoping future editions keep building on the world and explain some of the paranormal rules.

To Pull or Not To Pull? What's a pull list?

PULL! I'm definitely calling my comic shop and scouring the four corners of the earth to pick up the editions that are out and have the future ones held for me.