 | Kamudo, vol. 1 (Kamudo) Author: Himekawa, Akira | |
| Price: $12.29 | ||
Summary:
Before humans claimed their place in history, the skybound paradise of Hinoaruchi was ruled by demi-beings under the watch of Ryujinkyo’s demi-dragons. Now, as prophecy firetells a turbulent new age, will the birth of Kamuna, the first human child, bring disaster or salvation? In manga graphic novel format.
Reviews:
School Library Journal (+) (12/12/25)
Booklist (+) (12/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 10/01/2025 *Starred Review* In the age before humans, demi-dragons brought prosperity through the power to harness Wind and the blessings of life-giving Pulse energy from their goddess, Lady Ryusui. One fateful day, everything changes with the birth of Kamuna, a human with the left arm and tail of a demi-dragon. As Kamuna matures, he struggles to find his place in the world but begins learning ancient dragon fighting techniques all the same, hoping to learn control over the Wind himself. Simmering beneath Kamuna’s conflict is an ominous prophecy foretelling a change to the demi-beings’ societies that will either bring a new age of growth or a collapse of everything they know. Many interesting characters have already been introduced, including Kamuna’s rival, Gindu, a demi-dragon who begrudges Kamuna’s close relationship with his sister, Laseri, who herself is the pinnacle of positivity amid the strife. Within the first chapter, Himekawa has crafted a beautifully illustrated story with a deeply complex world full of masterfully conceived creatures. The character designs and settings are rich in detail, reminiscent of the fine-line work of Witch Hat Atelier. Some fantasy violence and complicated world-building make this story overall suited for readers ready to undertake a large-scale Dragonriders of Pern–style fantasy epic. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 12/12/2025 Gr 6 Up—Long ago, a dragon shaped the demi-creature world of Hinoaruchi. Now, the source of the life-giving pulse is dying, causing fear for the future. Ushering in that change in this thoroughly realized world is the first human. Unlike the other anthropomorphized creatures, the kind and plucky Kamuna sports a human body with only one dragon arm. While he has the grit to train in Dragon Fist, even with his disadvantages, his status as something of a social pariah is a harder pill to swallow. As in many fantasy series, prophecy propels Kamuna's path forward. The book entices readers before enthralling them with a delectable degree of lore, social tensions, and exquisitely detailed art. For instance, each dragon has a distinct appearance, and their culture is fleshed out with details like armor bearing organic shapes. Kamuna's relatable quest for belonging will make readers look inward. VERDICT From the creators behind the "Zelda" manga series, this coming-of-age story will leave fantasy fans roaring for more.—Rachel Forbes - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
