Title: Disney Kilala Princess Vol 1
Author:
Rika Tanaka
Contributors: Nao Kodaka
Genre:
Graphic Novels, Manga, YA, Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Media Tie-In
Series: Disney Kilala Princess
A
few starting notes:
I
received a free digital review copy of this book via NetGalley.
NetGalley provides review copies from publishers in exchange for fair
and honest reviews.
This is a re-release of one of Tokyopop's most popular titles.
Seeing as how Tokyopop are back, back, back! and working very closely with Disney, they're doing another release of the series, which was first given unto the world (sorry, I'm in a really weird mood,) circa 2007.
It's still as cute today ;)
This is a manga volume, and reads right to left, in traditional manga style.
Premise:
Kilala is living in admiration of her favourite Disney princesses. Little does she know that they're about to help her save the day!
Best
bits:
This book is so sweet and cute and kawaii that I'm going to get a cavity from all the sugar! At the same time, it's not sickeningly-sweet (which takes some skill!)
There are bits of what can only be described as swashbuckling action, and Kilala is a relatable heroine with a pet mouse. I defy you to resist the sweetness!
I actually quite liked the romantical-aspects, true it verged on insta-love, but managed to juuuuust dodge the most annoying parts of that trope (plus, we're dealing with Disney princesses - insta-love is going to happen. Deal with it.)
I also liked the way Snow White (our princess for this volume,) was a part of the story without dominating it - this is Kilala's story, not Snow's.
But neither do the Disney elements feel forced - they're woven in very well, particularly when you consider the balance of the manga style with the more traditionally 'Western' style of Disney princesses, which this volume totally pulls off :)
Not
so great bits:
Listen very carefully, I shall say this only once (let me know if you got that reference, I will love you forever,) -
GIRLS SHOULD NOT BASE THEIR ENTIRE FUTURE PLANS ON MEETING A HANDSOME DUDE TO MARRY. #JustSaying.
Also, if you're looking for something deep and intellectual? Yeah... this isn't the book for that.
Don't get me wrong, it's sweet, it just has the net substance of cotton candy (hence the cavities.)
Verdict:
A fun and sweet manga that any fan of princesses will love, but which is perhaps a little heavy on the gender stereotyping in places.
Still, it's an enjoyable read. :)
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Thanks for adding it to my link-up!
ReplyDeleteYou're the first to add a Manga :) It sounds super cute.
No problem :) I think people in the West read less manga now than they did 5-10 years ago. Hopefully people can get back into the manga swing of things! :)
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