Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic Volume 9 manga review

Manga
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic Volume 9 manga review
By Leroy Douresseaux
December 10, 2014 - 18:16

Viz Media
Writer(s): Shinobu Ohtaka, John Werry
Penciller(s): Shinobu Ohtaka
Letterer(s): Stephen Dutro
ISBN: 978-1-4215-5959-9
$9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK, 200pp, B&W, paperback
Rating: T (Teen)

Magi Volume 9 cover image is courtesy of barnesandnoble.com.

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Rated “T” for “Teen”

There is an alternate version and recreation of the ancient Old World, something like ancient Persia. About 14 years before the story begins, several magic castles (of various architectural styles) begin to appear in this world. Full of treasures and traps, these mysterious ruins are known as “Dungeons.” Aladdin and his friend, Alibaba Saluja, embark on a dangerous and deadly adventure into a Dungeon to find fortune and glory and more adventure.

As Magi, Vol. 9 (Chapters 79 to 88) begins, Aladdin learns that magic consists of spells. Now, it is time for more learning and training, and two of King Sinbad's associates will do the training. Sharklan will teach Alibaba sword techniques, and Yamraiha will teach Aladdin magic. First, there is time for fun, a celebration and feast called a “Maharagan.” A South Sea Creature arises on the west coast, sending Sinbad and his eight generals into action to kick things off.

Then, Hakuryu Ren, the fourth prince of the Kou Empire, arrives in Sinbad's kingdom of Sindria. His sister, Kogyoku Ren, eighth princess of the Kou Empire, is in tow, and she has a score to settle with Sinbad. Also, King Sinbad assigns Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana with Hakuryu the weighty task of entering Dungeon No. 61: Zagan.

THE LOWDOWN: The Magi manga (subtitled The Labyrinth of Magic) continues to be a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy adventure manga. This shonen manga with an Arabian Nights twist rarely fails to delight on some level.

In the chapters of Magi Volume 9, creator Shinbou Ohtaka sets up future political intrigue and also establishes new bonds between characters. The big treat is that the series is about to enter a new Dungeon for the first time in several volumes. Targeted at 'tweens and teens, Magi has the magic to delight readers of all ages – even my age.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE: Readers, especially young manga readers, looking for treasure-hunting adventure will want to try Magi.