The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi-Chan Volume 1

Manga
The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi-Chan Volume 1
By Chris Zimmerman
October 22, 2010 - 10:30

Yen Press
Writer(s): Nagaru Tanigawa
Penciller(s): Puyo
ISBN: 978-0-316-08957-9
$10.99 US

Back in 2003 Nagaru Tanigawa crafted the Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, a series of light novels detailing the eccentricities of a god given human form and how her unusual habits affect those around her. The series has since gone on to achieve immense popularity among fans, spawning a merchandising giant in the process with everything from manga to a movie to call its own.

The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi-Chan is a bit different from the standard adaptation, offering a more playful, albeit incoherent twist. The volume pretty much does away with the notion of Haruhi being a god, instead focusing on throwing the cast into random adventures with a comedic flavor. Whereas the original series played up Haruhi’s exploits for comedic value, this volume amps everything to the extreme including breaking the fourth wall and even making references to the anime and novels.

The artwork ranges from simplified to detailed depending on the mood of the story. Whereas one area will feature the standard pencils of a serious manga, the next page could reveal a four paneled comic of talking heads overly simplified. It’s an intriguing mix and mash and adds to the volume’s unpredictability.

The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi-Chan is a gag manga. Those looking for a continuation of the series will find themselves severely disappointed. The volume throws out the plot though recognition of the characters and their status within the story is key to understanding many of the jokes. This is a volume for fans devoted to everything Haruhi. It’s not essential but it is fun. If you’re funny bone is in the need for tickling, the SOS Brigade will be more than up to the task.

Rating: 8/10