A review by sashas_books
xxxHolic, Vol. 1 by CLAMP

adventurous dark funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.25

 I had picked this one up some years ago, when I hadn’t yet read a lot of manga. I “didn’t get it” then. (Manga novices, take note: nothing to see here… ;)) This time, I enjoyed it very much. I know the tricks of the genre better and they make me happy. 

I liked both Yuka the witch and Watanuki. Yuka runs a wish-granting shop and tricks Watanaki into working for her. Now stuff can happen, while Watanuki spends the rest of the volume reeling. Naturally, nothing is simple and nothing is what it seems when it comes to people’s wishes. Magic, horror, humour and slapstick were an enjoyable mix. 

The drawing style is beautiful, with Art Nouveau influences. Sometimes it felt too pretty, but it’s not something to complain about in this case. 

There is a cliffhanger at the end, it must be a sign that I’ll be reading more of this series :)