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Volume #3 (of 3)
Story & Art by Manabe Johji
Copyright © Manabe Johji


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by Chad Kime
Manabe Johji is a master of providing a fun story with easy-to-grasp
characters (i.e.: stereotypical), a simple art style and
straightforward plots. While this may never allow CARAVAN KIDD to make a lasting impact on most
readers, it certainly won't make people throw it down in disgust
for wasting their time.
CARAVAN KIDD tells the tale of Mian
Torres, a powerful female warrior with a hidden agenda who wages a
one woman war against an empire. A witless male lecher, Wataru, and
an amoral hyper-capitalistic blob, Babo, are dragged along on Mian's
journey as she travels into the heart of the Empire's capital. With
the Empire violently attempting to prevent her progress, and an
oppressed population cheering her on, the situation quickly reaches
an explosive level. This review is based upon volume 3 in the series,
and, despite not having read volumes 1 & 2, this volume is easy to
pick up and enjoy.
The art style is typical Manabe. Lots of organic tech, a
horde of athropomorphic critters and a half-naked heroine who looks
and acts like most of Manabe's other heroines. However, there are lots
of amusing in-jokes and cameo appearances by other famous characters (Hi
Kei!, Hi Yuri!), and his strong, yet fairly simple pacing and
composition truly fit his art style and subject matter. Lots of laughs
along the way as well, including Wataru's lecherous looks and the
punishment he endures, not to mention Mian's stint on what can only
be described as the Empire's answer to Jerry Springer.
Story-wise, the analysis is about the same. Big Buff Girl
hangs out with Dopey Guy and falls in love just in time to wreck havoc
on the Establishment. However, there are some thought-provoking themes
(the role of heroes, the nature of free will), and some truly hilarious
moments that smack of autobiographical experience.
In short, Manabe has developed both a drawing and storytelling
style that seems to suit him. Fans of his works will no doubt notice the
similarities to OUTLANDERS and his other works,
but this is more of an expectation rather than a disappointment. When
you're comfortable with a particular author because of his style, reading
a new work is like visiting an old friend. Sure, things have changed, but
enough has stayed the same so that you're comfortable. 
English version published in North America by Dark Horse Comics
Collection of CARAVAN KIDD
Part 2 #9-10 and Part 3 #1-8
296 pgs, Black and White
ISBN 1-56971-338-3
$19.95 US / $29.95 Canadian
Available now in the USA and Canada
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