Library Wars: Love & War, Vol. 5 by Kiiro Yumi

Original Concept by Hiro Arikawa Translated by Kinami Watabe 4 stars The dangers at the library take a turn in this volume. Instructor Komaki gets caught up in some serious allegations and the Task Force must figure out how to help him all while concealing Iku’s true role at the library from her visiting parents….

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Two-List Thanksgiving by Christine Whan

Illustrated by Sienna Youngsun Kim 5 stars An adorable story about a family coming together for a Thanksgiving meal. A young girl helps her mother shop for Thanksgiving. They have one list for the Korean market and one for the local market. It isn’t until they are all together enjoying the meal that the girl…

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This Monster Wants to Eat Me, Vol. 2 by Sai Naekawa

Translated by Caleb Cook 5 stars As Shiori patiently waits to devour Hinako, the two spend more time together and become closer. But Hinako’s best friend, Miko, isn’t thrilled to share her. Great story development with some fantastic twists and turns. The artwork is hauntingly beautiful. Creep, odd, and gorgeous. Such an interesting series. Really…

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Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Vol. 3

Story by Mizuki Tsujimura Illustrated by Tomo Taketomi Translated by Jacqueline Fung 4 stars Another great volume that continues the story nicely. Summer has come to a close and a new school year begins. And with it, March comes ever closer along with the deadline to find the key. Continuing the events from the previous…

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It Rhymes With Takei by George Takei

Adapted by Steven Scott & Justin Eisinger Illustrated by Harmony Becker 4 stars A great graphic autobiography that explores Takei’s acting career, education, political involvement, friendships, family, sexuality, and activism. Nicely written. This book takes on a lot of material and does not disappoint. A wonderful focus on activism and the joy of living as…

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Villains Are Destined to Die, Vol. 1 by Suol

Original Story by Gwon Gyeoeul Translated by David Odell 4 stars A gorgeously-illustrated, immersive story of romance, danger, and video games. When normal mode proves too easy, it’s time to play Daughter of the Duke’s Super Love Project on hard mode. Unfortunately, that means playing as the villain, Penelope. And when the player wakes up…

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Where Are the Eggs? (Storytelling Math) by Grace Lin

4 stars Another fantastic math-based story. Mei walks through her yard, looking for where her chickens have laid their eggs. She points out the location of each egg, using prepositions and spatial relationships such as under, on, and next to. The straightforward narration and simple story are perfect for the intended audience. Adorable illustrations. The…

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The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki

Translated by Jesse Kirkwood 4 stars The Full Moon Coffee Shop appears when and where it is needed. If you’re able to find it, you’ll meet a cast of knowledgeable talking cats, taste delicious treats, and gain insight into your life based on your star chart. Follow a few of the coffee shop’s visitors as…

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This Monster Wants to Eat Me, Vol. 1 by Sai Naekawa

Translated by Caleb Cook 4 stars Hinako want to die. Shiori wants to eat her. It’s a perfect match. After the traumatic loss of her family, Hinako finds continuing to live a chore. But after she’s attacked by yokai, saved by a beautiful mermaid, then befriended by the mermaid who wants to eat her, her…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 11

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 5 stars A bittersweet ending to a beautiful series. After learning how he was cursed and where Shiva came from, Teacher grapples with a difficult decision: keep his soul and retain his memories or give it up in the hope of reuniting with Shiva. This was such a satisfying…

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