Vagabond is a manga series based on the legendary Japanese swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi. It is both written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue, which I’m absolutely stunned by.
Vagabond Big Edition 1 | Buy on Amazon UK | Buy on Amazon US
About Vagabond
Written and Illustrated by: Takehiko Inoue
Published by: VIZ media
Original run: September 17, 1998 – present
Pages: 728
Premise
Beginning in the aftermath of the Battle of Sekigahara, two teens who joined the losing side, Takezō Shinmen and Matahachi Hon’iden are wounded while being hunted by surviving huntsmen. They escape and vow to become invincible.
They find refuge in the home of two women, but are soon confronted by the Tsujikaze gang and the two boys are separated during the battle. Takezō then chooses to become a vagabond (a ronin) and travel around the world challenging strong swordsmen, while Matahachi chooses to stay with the women.
Takezō returns to his hometown of Miyamoto village, and his future is soon shaped by events that transpire, and he eventually takes the name of his village, renaming himself Musashi Miyamoto.
My Thoughts on Vagabond Big Edition 1
After just two chapters of this volume, there was no doubt in my mind that I was going to see this series all the way through. Not only does Vagabond remind me of some of my favourite samurai based anime, but it also provides a medium for which I can learn more about the legend of Musashi.
On top of that, this manga has some of the most incredible artwork you’ll find. It’s extraordinary that one person can have so much talent that he’s able to write a compelling story and illustrate that same story at a top-tier level.
What’s also superb is the flow of the action within the panels. It sometimes feels like I’m watching the action unfold rather than reading it, as every motion is drawn in a way that you can visualize the movement of the characters. Sometimes reading a manga of this quality makes me want to be a fly on the wall when it’s being created.
Verdict
This is manga at its finest. Vagabond is one that should be highly recommended to anyone at any level. There are elements in this story that any human can relate to, even if you have no interest in swordsmen.
