Manga Review - Death Note

As you may have figured out by this point, Death Note is one of my fall-back answers for the question "what is your favorite anime/manga".  This is partially because Death Note was the first manga I read, and also because the manga and anime were both really good.  In some ways, it's popularity has faded a bit over the years (with oh so many new things to be excited about), but it still seems to be remembered and recommended to those who have yet to see it. Let's get to the manga review now.

 

As a manga, Death Note is still one of my favorites.  Overall, the plot was engaging, the characters were interesting, and the moral questions raised were intriguing.  The series is heavily comprised of L and Light plotting against each other, so be wary of spoilers. 

I started on volume 7 (sort of by accident).  I would advise against this.

Light is the typical "perfect son" of a member of the Japanese police force.   

L is a world-renowned detective.  He has strange mannerisms, and has an alarming sweet tooth.

Ryuk is a bored shinigami (death god) who decides to drop his notebook to earth and see what happens.  He loves apples.

Light is bored with his everyday life, and one day in class, he gazes out the window and sees a notebook fall from the sky.  Picking it up, he discovers a "Death Note".  He eventually discovers that writing someone's name in the notebook causes them to die, and decides to use them to remove the rottenness he sees in the world.  Using the Death Note, he aims to become "god of the new world" after removing all of the criminals, creating a Utopia.  Unfortunately, the Japanese police force and world-renowned detective L view Light as a serial killer (dubbed Kira).  This brings forth a battle of wits between L and Light as both attempt to discover the identity of the other, and enforce their own vision of justice on the world. 

The Death Note as a concept is simple, and yet it becomes more complex as it's abilities and limitations are discovered.  Justice is a key concept as well, and although it seems simple, the ongoing debate over morals between L and Light gives reason for further contemplation. 

Who would enjoy Death Note?  There are so many different things to like.  It is a detective/crime drama driven plot, with a healthy dose of plotting.  There are thought-provoking issues that come up.  The story is suspenseful, and there are moments of humor right alongside the serious.  It is accessible to those who don't read manga, with an understandable premise and easy-to-follow panels. 

My favorite part about Death Note is that the anime and manga are so well paired with each other.  The anime follows the manga almost perfectly, and the animation added extra drama to already engaging scenes.  People can either watch or read and still be discussing the same story, which is pretty neat. 
















I'd recommend Death Note to anyone who has yet to read it.  At 13 volumes, it won't take too long, and it's worth every minute.






Hope Burns Bright