In the next installment of CLAMP’s Gate 7, the team of artists and authors who make up CLAMP keep readers captivated with their style as well as storyline. Although there are many characters throughout the story, readers will become acquainted with them as they continue on their journey through the upcoming volumes.

Quite a few names may ring a bell to anyone who has studied Japanese history, but don’t be alarmed if you do not recognize them, because CLAMP provides brief summaries at the end of the manga to let the readers know more about characters which may be a hazy memory.

Gate 7 does not lack in plot. In fact, it holds the usual suspects, including a romantic and dramatic storyline. The characters met on every page seem to have their own secrets. A playful and subservient teacher may turn out to have a darker side, and the cute, noodle-loving girl you see on one page may not be that same endearing character you see five pages later.

CLAMP keeps readers intrigued with their ability to bring about every emotion, within just a few pages.  Readers will find themselves laughing one moment and becoming defensive the next, as they follow each individual on their journey.

Also, since this is a manga translated from Japanese, the names of each character have a particular meaning.  Just to make sure readers do not overlook these seemingly small details CLAMP has included snippets in the back of the manga to inform readers of the meanings of the names.  Keeping these meanings in mind adds new light not only to the characters themselves, but to their particular importance in the story’s plot.

CLAMP has definitely taken an interesting turn when it comes to confronting historical figures in manga.  By adding a layer of oni (a sort of Japanese demon or ogre), which are prevalent in many aspects of Japanese culture throughout their history, the authors are reaching out to a variety of new fans, all the way from Japanese history fanatics to avid and loyal CLAMP followers.

This is a new manga that you will not want to miss.  For an overall rating I would have to give it a 4.  A 5 would have been ideal, but the great number of characters can be a bit confusing, unless you pay close attention or have an amazing memory.  The next installments, I am sure, will help with the repetition of little known characters met in this volume and make the story all that more enjoyable.

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About the author

Kala Istvanek
Presently, I am attending Carthage College in Kenosha, U.S.A. I will be graduating with a degree in Asian Studies, with a minor in English and Studio Art. I have been a bookworm ever since I could read and I can never turn down a book. Art is also one of my loves and discovering new artists is always a thrill for me.