Usagi Yojimbo Volume 19: Fathers and Sons
Gr. 8-11. This is book 19 of the graphic novel series featuring ronin Usagi Yojimbo--a rabbit with ears tightly knotted who roams an inventive medieval Japan populated with bears, lions, and other creatures. In this episode, both Usagi and his "nephew," Jotaro, know they are father and son, but each believes the other is ignorant of the fact and cannot bring himself to speak the truth. Together, they stop gangsters who would do further harm to a wounded goat (who has been traveling the countryside with his own kid); do battle with a deadly fan-wielding villainess; and fend off several groups of ne'er-do-wells in both forest and village. Sakai, known for his solid narratives and energetic art, doesn't disappoint here; characters are expressive, and there's a nice mix of fast action and sentimentality. The idea of the familial secret will extend the appeal of this book beyond series fans to new readers.Francisca GoldsmithCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved