by Rina Kitto

Created on: July 16, 2010

Being a slow reader, I was never into books since it would probably take me about an hour or so to read about 20 pages. And Western comics never got my attention. American comics such as X-Men, Watchmen, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles never seemed so interesting. And the whole production seemed like it was fake; just a way to get money. So I turned away from any sort of book. Until I discovered the amazing world of manga. As a kid, I always enjoyed anime so I decided "Why not read where they came from?"

So I looked around and saw the first volume of "InuYasha" by Rumiko Takahashi. I decided to take that one because when i was like 8, I remember a few scenes of "InuYasha" the anime but i didn't remember any of it other then his InuYasha's face. "InuYasha is" the story of a half-yokai (demon) dog named InuYasha and a 15-year-old Japanese school girl named Kagome and other charaters looking for the shards of a round jewel called the "Shiki no Tama" or Jewel of Four Souls. I was so fascinated. the amazing details in the backgrounds, the facial expression, the way the story line grabbed you into the comic; everything. By the time I hit the 10th volume, I wanted to read more of Rumiko Takahashi's work.

I then started reading one of her older work's "Ranma 1/2." This one is actually my favorite. It's about a 16-year-old boy named Ranma who travels to China with his father Genma to train at the ancient training ground of Cursed Springs to have a martial arts battle with each other. but one thing lead to another and Genma became a panda and Ranma became a busty young girl when doused with cold water. When this father and son return to Japan, Genma and his friend Mr. Tendo play matchmaker to their kids and decide that Ranma and Tedo's daughter Akane to be engaged. Only problem is they don't like each other. But I think we all know where this this going...

This martial arts comedy made me jump off the walls to see the hilarious moments when Ranma would "unexpectedly" turn into a girl. Especially at the moments when you have to be a boy.  It reminded me alot when I was four when watching "Dragon Ball Z" with all of the martial art's challenges thrown into it. And the challenges were hilarious, especially when Rumiko mad up her own material arts such as "Martial Arts Gymnastics" and "Martial Arts Tea Ceremonies." 

But not only did this have comedy and action but also Romance. I kept on waiting and waiting for Akane and Ranma to kiss and just when they were about to, Rumiko goofed it up! Which is what I love most about her work.

Overall, I really do enjoy Takahashi-sama's work, especially "Ranma 1/2" being one of my favorite mangas. Sure, there are a lot out there I do like, but there are also a whole lot more I haven't read. But at this time, Ranma will be my favorite.

Learn more about this author, Rina Kitto.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.