Book Review: The Blue Wolves of Mibu 1

It's 1863, the twilight of the shogunate, and Japan is on the cusp of monumental change. The streets of the nation's capital are soaked in blood as political upheaval and rising tensions between masterless, wandering ronin and government samurai set the stage for one of the most turbulent times in Japan's history. Young orphan Nio is no stranger to the harsh realities of the world, and yet he can't help but cling to his burning passion for justice and desire to change the world for the better. One day, he crosses paths with two men who will become central figures of the coming revolution: Hijikata Toshizo and Okita Souji, two of the founding members of a group of hated ronin known as the Miburo--who would later become known as the Shinsengumi. Inspired by the efforts of the so-called "Blues Wolves of Mibu," Nio decides to join the ranks to help carve a path to the world he wishes to see. But with new betrayals and reversals every day, will Nio be able to stay true to his conscience?

The Blue Wolves of Mibu volume 1 by Tsuyoshi Yasuda will be released on February 27, 2024. Kodansha Comics provided an early galley for review.

The cover of this manga is what instantly drew my attention. The composition and the colors created an intriguing invitation to check it out.

This volume presents the first five chapters of the adventure. It begins with a group of children begging an old man for a story, so he begins to recount something from his past. This is followed by a foreword for English readers, explaining the historical context for the tale. I found this to be super helpful for someone who is not up on the history of Japan.

The main story of young Nio moves along fairly quickly. The reader is pulled into this world of danger, action and intrigue. As he navigates a new life with the Miburo, we are slowly introduced to their ranks and start to learn some of the secrets some members have been keeping. I appreciated the pace at which the story unfolds.

The sharp lettering of the word balloons compliments the varied linework on the figures. This is all then enhanced by the shading and textures of the backgrounds. Together, the artwork creates a very pleasing reading experience.