Momogumi Plus Senki Vol. 1by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 8 Yuuki attracts disaster wherever he goes to himself and all around him, and after transferring to a new school Yuuki finds out he's the reincarnation of Momotaro. Three of the students have animal forms and powers and serves as his minions helping him and fighting for him. Why does he need them? Because in his past life he was cursed by demons and he must break every curse before he turns 18 or die! Good news is the demons all go to his new school as well. Bad news is, the demons all go to his new school — and they have really strange requests for breaking their part of the curse.Let's start with the fact that I love the art. The eyes aren't too large and they're done in heavy lines and showing lashes making them seem more dramatic. The center of the eyes is also changed for shocked or humorous effect, and it really works well. This is all good because most of this volume relies on head shots of various kinds to tell the story. The character designs are well thought-out — the dog truly acts like a dog and looks puppy-like, the bird is fierce and beautiful, but the monkey looks more like a tiger... Even the demons have humorous but well planned stories and situations that make the challenge of defeating them even harder. Strangely enough, Yuuki seems to be the most level-headed and he's the one with the "disaster disorder". And speaking of that, his classmates' reaction and acceptance of the strange catastrophes that happen in class and all around Yuuki is touching as well as funny. I especially love the use of umbrellas! And his mighty sword changes shape, adapting to the situation in which he'll need it (i.e. not being a sword at all). There are just so many clever details in the story and humor that you can't help but enjoy the read. It's an unusual fantasy story that puts an interesting twist on an old folktale without modernizing it too much — the demons and minions are all stuck in the past with thoughts and grudges and are all currently reincarnated themselves and the same young age as Yuuki! Even Momotaro's parents are reincarnated with a twist — they've swapped genders (and are about his age!). Needless to say it's a huge ton of laughs; a real treat for those who like fun, funny fantasy. The story should only get better from here. I highly recommend you give it a try; let the wonderful art and twisted story let you escape your day. Written: November 25, 2009
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