Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

4.0 Stars. Akira was originally published in the US in 38 chapters, later collected into 6 volumes. Vol. 4 is chapters 17-23.

What happens in this volume: (view spoiler)[
- The ruins of Neo-Tokyo divide into two factions - one led by Lady Miyako and the other by Akira/Tetsuo.
- Kei, Chiyoko, the Colonel ally with Lady Miyako to protect the other Espers.
- Ryu learns that Russia has taken over Northern Japan and the US is in nearby waters but not taking action out of fear of Akira.
- Tetsuo is able to view inside Akira's mind and it nearly destroys him.
- Tetsuo visits Lady Miyako and learns the origins of the government test subjects.
- Tetsuo stops taking his medication after learning it inhibits his abilities.
- Tetsuo's followers attack Lady Miyako's temple.
- A rift opens in the sky dumping debris on Neo-Tokyo as well as Kaneda. (hide spoiler)]

The Good:
- Exposition: Prior to this volume very little has been explained regarding the events that happened prior to the books as well as how the rest of the world has reacted to learning of Akira's existence. This volume provides answers by temporarily taking Kaneda out of the story and focusing on side characters.

- Character Growth: With Kaneda gone, the story shifts it's focus to characters that have taken a backseat to Kaneda and Tetsuo's stories. Kei and the Colonel in particular are given their due. Their motivations become clearer. (view spoiler)[The Colonel feels responsible for unleashing Tetsuo and seeks to make things right. His character transformed from an almost cartoonish villain into a morally grey anti-hero. Kei is no longer just Kaneda's love interest. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, selfless and brave. Her actions propel the plot forward to the point where she is being set up to be just as important to the plot as Kaneda. (hide spoiler)]


The Bad:
- Kaneda's disappearance is not explained: Why was Kaneda the only one that disappeared? No one knows where he is and they assume he's dead. This in itself isn't bad at all because it gave Kei a chance to shine, but there isn't a satisfying explanation for it yet. Given the momentum of the plot at this point I'm not even certain this disappearance can or will be explained.

- Ryu: I don't understand this character yet. He obviously still has a role to play but it feels like he keeps showing up to remind the reader he is there so we don't forget him while the plot progresses. However, almost nothing about him has been revealed. Why should I care about Ryu? At this point I don't know.


I am really enjoying this manga and cannot wait to finish it. The plot is moving so fast, the action is nonstop, the story is intriguing and the characters are multifaceted. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone that struggles with hyperviolent content. There is also sexual assault that occurs which may bother some.