Imagine if a child who had passed away suddenly reappeared, looking exactly as she did before. But what if it was all the doing of a shapeshifting tanuki? This isn’t a reunion. She isn’t real. And yet, her parents cling to the bittersweet lie. Experience a poignant tale of loss and longing from the author of “My Clueless First Friend”.

This comic book presents an intriguing start to a series that explores themes of identity and deception. At the same time this comic book the stage for a narrative filled with mystery and psychological tension, that had drawn me personally into a world where appearances can be deceiving.

The story in this comic book revolves around a child who is not what they seem, living in a society that thrives on appearances and secrets. The creators of this comic book create a plot that blends elements of suspense and drama, that have kept me engaged with its enigmatic premise. The narrative raises questions about identity and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets, making for a thought-provoking read.

The character development is one of the strengths of this comic book. The protagonist is portrayed with depth and complexity, their internal struggles and motivations gradually unfolding as the story progresses. The creators of this comic book skillfully reveals layers of the protagonist’s personality, making them both relatable and intriguing. The supporting characters, while not as deeply explored, add to the overall tension and mystery, each with their own hidden agendas and secrets.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative effectively, with detailed illustrations that capture the mood and atmosphere of the story. The character designs are expressive, providing insight into their emotions and intentions. The use of shadow and light adds a layer of depth to the visuals, enhancing the sense of mystery and unease that permeates the narrative.

While this comic book excels in establishing its premise and characters, it faces some pacing issues. The narrative occasionally feels uneven, with certain scenes moving quickly while others linger without significant development. This can disrupt the flow of the story, making it challenging for me personally to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding mystery. A more balanced pace would allow for deeper exploration of the plot and character dynamics.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and effective, capturing the tension and uncertainty that define the characters’ interactions. The writing in this comic book is both engaging and thought-provoking, using conversations to reveal character motivations and advance the plot. The dialogue adds depth to the relationships, making them more complex and layered.

I Give This Book 3 / 5