Magi Graphic Novel Volume 28 cover image

Magi is set on a world that is 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.  These mysterious ruins are known as “Dungeons,” and they are full of treasures and traps.  Aladdin, who is a Magi (a sorcerer of creation), and his friend, King Alibaba Saluja, embark on dangerous and deadly adventures into those Dungeons to find fortune and glory and more adventure.

As Magi, Vol. 28 (Chapters 269 to 278) opens, the Kou Empire has fallen into civil war.  The forces of two would be rulers, Koen Ren (the Western Empire) and Hakuryu (the Eastern Empire), face off.  And yes, they are brothers, and one side will call forth a surprising group of allies.  Meanwhile, Alibaba and Judar's souls continue through “the Bottom of the World,” where they will meet a primeval dragon.  But does the great creature have the answers that Alibaba and Judar need?

THE LOWDOWN:  The Magi manga (subtitled The Labyrinth of Magic) has offered so much adventure and so many subplots in its previous 27 graphic novels.  This particular volume does that a little, but the emphasis here is on total war.

Magi Graphic Novel Volume 28 continues to focus on the massive civil war in the Kou Empire.  Creator Shinobu Ohtaka depicts carnage galore, but the battle scenes are nicely designed in powerful graphics.  The best of this volume involves the meeting with primeval dragon, which is beautifully drawn by Ohtaka.  In an intense brother vs. brother moment, Vol. 28 has an ending that will summon readers back for the next volume.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers, especially young manga readers, looking for adventure stories will want to read the “Shonen Sunday” title, Magi.

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8 out of 10