Kagurabachi, Volume 1

Starred review from November 1, 2024
Grades 9-12 *Starred Review* Chihiro's father, Kunishige, is a renowned sword maker who created six deadly, magical blades during a terrible war. Fearing the evil he unleashed upon the world, he quested to collect them after the war and sealed them away in the basement of their house. Chihiro and Kunishige live a peaceful life, until sorcerers attack, steal the katanas, and murder Kunishige. With his dying breath, Kunishige created one final enchanted blade, and Chihiro sets down a path of revenge to seek the blades once more and destroy those who took everything away from him. The interwoven magic and sword fighting is a beautiful blend of mysticism and action while creating an otherworldly atmosphere for this historically set series. Hokazono's illustrations fill the page and draw readers into every panel with intricate details, careful scenery, and thoughtful character designs. This tale of righteous vengeance has a lot to love for fans of Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen looking for their next series. There is a supporting cast bringing in needed levity at just the right moments, beautifully illustrated and choreographed fight sequences with satisfying gore, and menacing villains to get readers' hearts racing and set the narrative stakes high.

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