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Description:
300 years after the apocalypse, Japan is suffering under the oppression
of the royal family. But there is hope. Tatara, the "child of destiny"
was born in the village of Byakko, and surely he will save the people.
Hearing the rumors, Shuri, the youngest son of the king and also known
as the Red King himself, attacks Byakko and kills Tatara. But Sarasa,
Tatara's twin sister, disguises herself as Tatara and starts leading the
people against the Red King, and ultimately the King of Japan. In a cruel
twist of fate, Sarasa and Shuri fall in love, not realizing that the other
is the hated enemy. But the truth is eventually revealed in the midst
of a battle between Tatara and the Red King.
Review:
Basara is a truly unique manga to read. The main character, a female
named Sasara, witnesses her brother’s brutal murder and must take
his place in order to save her oppressed people from the Red King.
Absolutely amazing storytelling and dedication went into Basara. It
will tear at your heart, as Sasara falls in love with her enemy: Shuri.
Gripping, gritty, and deep, Basara is the shojo counterpart to Berserk.
Basara is a no-holds-barred shojo adventure manga where no one is safe,
fan favorite characters are murdered in the ongoing warfare.
Readers are forced to witness events unfold, sometimes with unfortunate
outcomes. But I can testify, despite the tragedy and strife, Basara
never disappoints and concludes on an elevated note. Every character
is depicted fairly; you will often times find yourself sympathizing
with a murderer. The story and drama are realistic, often summoning
the courage to do what other mangas won't.
The art is not the usual fare either. Yumi Tamura possesses a memorable
artistic style that immediately announces itself as "mature."
Her loose inking technique coupled with dynamically broad eyes and flowing
hair are her trademark. Every character is stylish but unique; no problems
discerning who's who (unlike some manga artists).
Sasara is no magical girl, she is a grounded woman forced to accept
a profound destiny and burden. Basara might cause you to shed a tear,
but the thoughtful writing and stylized art ease the pang of painful
lessons. Can you love your enemy even in warfare?
Positively recommended for mature readers and fans sick of trite magical
plots plagued with supernatural elements. This is not your typical teenage
romance set in modern Tokyo: there are no high school uniforms or cell
phones. This is a romantic period piece, full of engrossing atmosphere
and distant settings. There is no modernity here, folks. These characters
are living (and dying) through real strife.
Pros:
Unique art and gripping epic that empowers women from all walks of life.
Cons:
Long series, might lose some people’s interest after awhile. Very
tragic.
Try:
Mars, Peach Girl, Ceres, Fushigi Yûgi,
Wild Com, Chicago
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