Vagabond #9 - Japanese Manga

Vagabond #9

By: Takehike Inoue

Published: November 17, 2010 

I have been reading this series on and off for the past couple of years.  My interest in period Japan guided me on the journey of reading and enjoying Vagabond.  The books do carry a “Explicit Content” warning.  Therefore I would not recommend this for young manga readers.  There is a lot of fighting, with exquisite illustrations that are dark, with some sexual content sprinkled in here and there.  

Musashi is the main character who is on a journey of personal growth.  His battles on the field are just as important as the battles within himself.  Although this series is meant for entertainment, one can use it to periodically self reflect  along with Musashi.  Inner growth and understanding one’s purpose in life is indeed a journey.  

Highly recommend this series.  Each book is thick, with vibrant colors on the outer cover.  Once you collect several of the books, line them up. Watch the spine develop into an amazing photo which is an extra treat for collectors.

Rating: 5/5

February Read: Livia Lone Book #1

Livia Lone

By: Barry Eisler

Published: October 25, 2016

Livia Lone novel is spoken by the main character Livia Lone.  This is the first book in a series by the author Barry Eisler.  The novel paints a picture of Livia’s journey tying the past with the present as she sets out to take revenge on those who turned her and her sister’s life upside down after their Taiwanese parents sold them.  Livia refers to her sister as “Little Bird” throughout their childhood and as an adult during her search to find her sister after they were separated by those who sexually abused them during their travels with other children in a shipping container.  

I listened to Audible version during my commutes to and from work.  From the start I found it difficult to listen too as Livia paints a vivid picture of the atrocities forced upon her and the other children.  Sexual abuse, beatings, verbal abuse and ultimately death for some.  I did get through this book, cheering on Livia throughout many episodes of challenges.  Livia finds her strength, and friendships that changed the course of her life as she becomes an adult as a detective.  

The end didn’t offer what I hoped would happen for Livia, but it does offer many “wins” the reader gains through Livia’s story.  In my opinion the author wrote an exceptional start to Livia’s voice, and I look forward to book two.

If you're uncomfortable with descriptions of sexual abuse against children, this is a book that should be avoided.

Rating: 4/5

Reading

January Review: "Becoming" By: Michelle Obama

Becoming

By: Michelle Obama

Published: November 13, 2018

An inspiring autobiography by the former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama.  I was eager to get this book which is major since I don’t read a lot of autobiographies.  This one came from the voice of Mrs. Obama in a way that felt like she was telling a story I could imagine, as if watching on a movie screen.  The voice is real, doesn’t hold back, but also demonstrated maturity even as a youth growing up in the South side of Chicago where the community was changing as resident moved out to the suburbs.  Her voice is one that can inspire young people to reach beyond their current circumstances and learn when it’s okay to change course.  

When reading how Mrs. Obama became an attorney, gained all the “things” but still felt unfulfilled, this spoke to me.  Attaining a degree and career ultimately means nothing if not completely satisfied.  Mrs. Obama understood this especially after losing loved ones, and meeting “Barry,” former President Barack Obama.  

Highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn more about this lady’s past and where she is today.  Her book inspires anyone regardless of gender, race, or religious background.  Excellent book for all readers.

Rating: 5/5