Yurara, Volume 1

June 1, 2007
While most kids are enjoying high school, Yurara is hiding a secret. She can see the dead kid occupying her seat, and she can sense spirits' emotions. The two hottest boys in her class, Mei Tendo and Yako Hoshino, share similar talentsthey can banish spirits with the power of fire and water. These three team up in an unlikely trio to protect the living. But during a particularly dangerous encounter, Yurara transforms into a beautiful woman, a change she suspects is owing to her powerful guardian spirit possessing her body. The typical love triangle becomes an interesting square. While in guardian spirit form, Yurara is herself but stronger, and this appeals to Yako. Mei will take Yurara in any form, while Yurara, in turn, develops feelings for Yako. The tone is light, finding humor even when the characters are battling demons. The spirits' hallowed eyes are particularly creepy. The blend of comedy, romance, and horror makes this a good pick for any teen shelf.Sadie Mattox, DeKalb Cty. P.L., Decatur, GA

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 18, 2007
In Shiomi’s third title to come to the U.S., title character Yurara Tsukinowa is a high school student with the unique talent for seeing ghosts and for feeling their pain. Preceded by her “weird” reputation (her gift often has her bursting into tears or staring off into space), she’s shunned by her classmates—all except for the handsome and playful Mei Tendo and his best friend/arch rival, the cool, attractive Yako Hoshino. As it turns out, the two hottest guys in school share not only the same class as Yurara but also the same ghost-seeing ability. Together, the threesome form a “yin” and “yang” type of ghost busting. With Mei and Yako, Yurara discovers her inner self—a self-confident and compassionate girl who can release spirits from their suffering. As in many shojo narratives, the outer Yurara struggles with her insecurities and appears meek and helpless. Shiomi develops her characters in an entertaining and intricate manner and presents the story with clean, detailed art. For readers who like their shojo with an edge, Yurara
is Land of the Blindfolded
with teeth.