Monday 21 January 2019

Book Review: The Girl From the Other Side Volume 1 by Nagabe


Published: 2017
Pages: 180
Genre: Manga, Fantasy
Once upon a time...

In a land far away, there were two kingdoms: the Outside, where twisted beasts roamed that could curse with a touch, and the Inside, where humans lived in safety and peace. The girl and the beast should never have met, but when they do, a quiet fairytale begins.

This is a story of two people--one human, one inhuman--who linger in the hazy twilight that separates night from day.

Hot on the heels on The Ancient Magus Bride comes The Girl From The Other Side. Both books focus on the developing relationship between an otherworldly creature, seen by humans as a monster, and a human girl. However, while romance is at the core of The Ancient Magus Bride, The Girl From The Other Side instead focuses on the nurturing bond formed between Teacher and Shiva.

It's a beautifully soft fantasy, imbued with magic and love. Unlike The Ancient Magus Bride, where Elias clearly holds all of the power in the early books, it's clear that it's Shiva who is in charge. From stomping around the woodlands to demanding that Teacher has tea parties with her, Shiva knows how to get her own way. But, it's never in a whiny, petulant manner. Shiva is instantly likeable and it's easy to relate to her. Anyone with children, or young relatives will know how charming a child can be. It's also easy to connect with Teacher, despite his arcane background. He clearly loves and cherishes Shiva, and the way he dotes upon her adds a joyful warmth to an eerie fairytale. 

The artwork is well-matched to the story, almost looking like old fairytale illustrations or woodcuts. The panels are full of incredible details that are an absolute pleasure to explore. 

I can't wait to read the next volume. 

My Rating /5: 

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