Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic Volume 10 manga review

Manga
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic Volume 10 manga review
By Leroy Douresseaux
February 10, 2015 - 22:28

Viz Media
Writer(s): Shinobu Ohtaka, John Werry
Penciller(s): Shinobu Ohtaka
Letterer(s): Stephen Dutro
ISBN: 978-1-4215-5960-5
$9.99 U.S., $12.99 CAN, £6.99 UK, 200pp, B&W, paperback
Rating: T (Teen)

Magi: Volume 10 cover image is courtesy of barnesandnoble.com.

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Rated “T” for “Teen”

Magi is a shonen manga set in an alternate version and recreation of the ancient Old World (similar to 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. 10 (Chapters 89 to 98) begins, Aladdin, Alibaba, Morgiana, and Hakuryu arrive on Tran Island. They are there, at the behest of King Sinbad, to enter Dungeon No. 61: Zagan. However, the mysterious Tran people are initially reluctant to help them enter the Dungeon because they believe that this ancient labyrinth has a mind of its own.

Alibaba's djinn, Amon, also has some words of warning for him, and Hakuryu promises to help a young Tran girl find her family. As they try to overcome Zagan, these four find themselves facing unbelievable new foes and some shockingly familiar old adversaries.

THE LOWDOWN: Almost every time I review the Magi manga (subtitled The Labyrinth of Magic), I describe it as “a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy adventure manga.” It really is. I take it for granted, but I really enjoy it. This shonen manga with an Arabian Nights twist hardly ever fails to be delightful... for reals, y'all!

John Werry's clean, simple (but not simplistic) adaptation of the original Japanese captures the sense of adventure that permeates creator Shinobu Ohtaka's breathless narrative, which is filled with discover, magic, mystery, and wonder. As with other volumes, Magi Volume 10 emphasizes the bonds of friendship and fellowship. It's all about lending that helping hand, and that is always a good message for readers of all ages.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE: Readers, especially young manga readers, looking for adventure stories will want to be a Magi.

Rating: A-/10