Rurouni Kenshin, Volume 1

March 1, 2004
Fans of the popular Rurouni Kenshin anime TV series, available on DVD and shown on Cartoon Network, have been asking for years for the original Kenshin manga that inspired the anime to be released in English. Viz has now fulfilled that wish. In Japan during the 1860s, Kenshin Himu ra was a feared assassin, fighting the warriors of the Shogun to restore the Emperor to power. But after his side achieved victory, Kenshin disappeared, and now, 11 years later, he is a rurouni (a wanderer) who will no longer kill. In this first volume, Kenshin helps swordswoman and instructor Kaoru Kamiya defeat the murderers attempting to take over her dojo (training hall). Charmed by her philosophy of "swords that give life," he decides to stay with her. The book also introduces Kaoru's young student Yahiko and the edgy Sanosuke, master of the zanbato, the heaviest sword ever made. Watsuki's detailed art is excellent, with explosive swordfighting scenes, and the characters and story are compelling. With some explicit violence, this is rated "for older teens," but it will interest adults as well. With its popularity and low price, this is easily recommended for all collections.

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.