Black Bard

by Ichiya Sazanami

Overview

Black Bard, a wondering minstrel, in gothic garb, travels a fantastical world following adventures wherever they may take him. Battling foes and saving strangers in distress. But what is the mystery that lies in this troubled trouveur's past? Drama and magic will delight us as we follow the adventures of Black Bard and become enchanted with his song.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781935548386
Publisher:	One Peace Books
Publication date:	11/15/2013
Pages:	544
Product dimensions:	7.10(w) x 5.10(h) x 1.70(d)

About the Author

Ichiya Sazanami won the Media Factory Manga Award 2011. He went on to debut in the Japanese manga world with his first title Black Bard.

Editorial Reviews

03/01/2014
Gr 9 Up—The Black Bard wanders the medieval lands. With his gothic attire, good looks, and harp at his side, he serves no master, performing for anyone willing to appreciate his songs. On his travels, he encounters the menacing Witch Queen, a crew of pirates, magicians, and man beasts. It's rumored that the Bard's music is imbued with magic. Could this be why the powerful March Bunny Association is after the Black Bard? And what of his quest to find out why the Crimson Empire vanished thousands of years ago? Black-and-white art features strong use of dark tones, emphasizing the gothic style. The magical and mysterious world showcases silhouettes, paper cuts, and effective use of white space. Readers will enjoy exploring the detailed panels. The story line is character-driven, unfolding at a leisurely pace with nice plot twists. While references to Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland appear in character names, designs, and images, this book is not a remake. Characters are well written, and the secrets are revealed with a deft hand. A small percentage of the Japanese text for signage and sound effects has been retouched or subtitled into English. The complete three-volume manga series is published in a single omnibus. Recommended for readers who enjoy fantastical journeys with a minimum of violence and gore.—June Shimonishi, Torrance Public Library, CA

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