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Title:  Aria Vol 1

Author:  Kozue Amano

Publisher:  TOKYOPOP

ISBN:  9781427805102

May Contain Spoilers

Returning to Aqua, the planet formerly known as Mars, Akari is still pursuing her dream of becoming an undine.  As she practices her craft, she meets new people and rediscovers old acquaintances.  Life, like the gondolas she steers, flows peacefully through the canals of Neo-Venezia.

Hmmm.  That really makes the book sound boring, but not.  The pace may be a little leisurely, but the art and the likable characters help the time pass pleasantly.  Instead of battling demons, Akari learns to defend her gondola from decay, carefully scraping barnacles from the bottom.  Instead of casting spells at her enemies, she makes magical rainbows with a garden hose.  All the time, she delights in new adventures and sights as she travels through the canals of her new home.

In this volume, Akari helps a grumpy old man look for his daughter and son-in-law.  With Alicia onboard, she takes control of the gondola and tries to show the man the wonders of Neo-Venezia.  He has a negative view of the whole planet, not understanding why anyone would want to bother traveling there.  He still can’t believe that his family dragged him all the way there.  Throughout his complaining, Akari maintains her good-nature and composure. 

After learning to clean the boats with Aika, Akari meets up with an old customer, the slightly intimidating Akatsuki.  He’s waiting for a late friend, and to while away the time, Akari gives him a tour.  This chapter was notable for its gorgeous illustrations, and for Akatsuki’s unique personality.

When Alicia and Akari take a tour of a nearby island, Akari is separated from her companion.  With President Aria, she wanders through a shire, lost, and stumbles upon a procession of foxes.  This chapter had a dreamlike quality, as Akari worries about being carried off by the fox spirits.

Wrapping up the volume is a gondola race, which highlights the differences between Akari and Aika’s personalities.  Aika is very intense and competitive, and she throws herself headlong into trying to win the race.  Akari, on the other hand, is content to just enjoy the experience.  For her, it’s not important who wins the race, it’s being able to row her gondola through the canals that’s what matters most.

Aria is a fun slice of life series that charms with its enjoyable characters and its stunning illustrations.  Neo-Venezia is beautifully realized, and it makes a fantastic backdrop for this story.

Grade:  B+

Rated for Older Teen

Review copy provided by TOKYOPOP