KY's Reads

Vinland Saga Review (Rating: 5/5) Overview Vinland Saga is a Japanese historical manga created by Makoto Yukimura, serialized since 2005. Set in 11th-century Europe during the Viking Age, it explores themes of war, revenge, power struggles, and the dream of discovering new lands. For more details, see the Wikipedia page (English) . Synopsis The story begins with young warrior Thorfinn, driven by revenge after his father is killed in battle. Consumed by hatred, he follows the path of violence, determined to defeat the man responsible. Along the way, he learns about “Vinland,” a fertile land free from war, which gradually reshapes his vision of life and the future. Characters Thorfinn : The protagonist. Initially driven by vengeance, he struggles with the meaning of life and begins to seek a way of living beyond violence. Askeladd : A cunning and resourceful mercenary leader. Both Thorfinn’s enemy and mentor, he profoundly influences Thorfinn’s development. Story Develo...

Hyakushō Kizoku Review (Rating: 5/5) Overview Hyakushō Kizoku ( Noble Farmer ) is an autobiographical essay manga by Hiromu Arakawa, best known as the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist . Drawing on her upbringing on a dairy farm in Hokkaido, Arakawa depicts the realities of farming life, food culture, and agricultural challenges with humor and warmth. Reference link (Wikipedia, English): Hyakushō Kizoku - Wikipedia Synopsis This manga is based on Arakawa’s personal experiences growing up in a farming family. Through short essay-style episodes, readers are introduced to life on a dairy farm: caring for cattle, seasonal agricultural work, and the everyday struggles and wisdom of farmers. While lighthearted in tone, the manga also highlights the social context surrounding agriculture and its direct connection to what ends up on our tables. It allows readers to laugh while learning about aspects of farming life that are usually hidden from view. Characters Hiromu Arakawa (herself) The ...