Title: xxxHolic, Vol. 9
Author: CLAMP
First published January 1, 2006
185 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780345496393 (ISBN10: 0345496396)
Rating: 4.36
Overview
Kimihiro Watanuki is in for a surprise when he unknowingly purchases a menacing dream. The enigmatic time-space witch, Yûko Ishikawa, informs him that he’s ended up with a man-eating nightmare, which has strangely come to life.
However, Kimihiro’s not alone in his ability to see the spirit world. He meets a desolate girl with the same gift, and together they strive to save a harmless ghost from being exorcised from its cherished resting place, a time-honored cherry tree.
Despite the girl’s mother forbidding their association, the spirits have other plans. Don’t miss out on the action-packed chapters 52-58 of xxxHolic, Vol.
9.
About the Author
CLAMP is a popular Japanese mangaka group that was originally formed in 1989. The group started with twelve members, but it quickly decreased to seven by 1990.
Unfortunately, Tamayo Akiyama, Sei Nanao, and Leeza Sei left the group during the production of the RG Veda manga. Other former members of CLAMP include Soushi Hishika, O-Kyon, Kazue Nakamori, Yuzuru Inoue, and Shinya Ōmi.
Currently, there are four members in the group: Ōkawa Nanase, Mokona Apapa, Igarashi Satsuki, and Nekoi Tsubaki.
In 2004, CLAMP celebrated their 15th anniversary as a mangaka group, and the members decided to change their names. Ōkawa Nanase became Ageha Ohkawa, Mokona Apapa became Mokona, Nekoi Mick became Nekoi Tsubaki, and Igarashi Satsuki kept her name pronunciation but changed the characters in her name.
According to an interview with Ohkawa, Mokona wanted to change her surname because it sounded too juvenile, while Nekoi disliked being compared to Mick Jagger. Ohkawa and Igarashi followed suit and changed their names as well.
In 2006, CLAMP gained popularity in the United States after making their first public debut at Anime Expo in Anaheim, California. Their panel at the convention had over 6,000 attendees, and they were well-received by fans.
Editoral Review
xxxHolic, Volume 9, by the talented Japanese manga collective CLAMP, is a riveting addition to their popular fantasy genre. It was first published on January 1, 2006, and continues to draw in readers with its captivating storylines, unique artwork, and thought-provoking themes.
The series follows the adventures of Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student who can see spirits and is haunted by them. He’s offered a way out of this cursed existence by the witch Yko Ichihara, who promises to remove his ability to see spirits in exchange for him working part-time for her.
In Volume 9, readers are treated to an intense and immersive continuation of the story. In Volume 9, Watanuki must unravel the mystery of a clock that is said to be able to turn back time, leading him on a journey that involves time travel, family legacies, and emotional confrontations with the spirits that torment him.
CLAMP masterfully interweaves these plotlines, creating a complex yet satisfying narrative that engages the reader from start to finish. One of the strengths of xxxHolic Volume 9 is how the artwork complements the story.
The stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail help to create an immersive world that readers can fully immerse themselves in. Additionally, the character development is outstanding, with multi-dimensional characters that stay with you long after you finish reading.
CLAMP’s ability to imbue their work with socio-cultural commentary is another impressive feature of this manga. The series is steeped in Japanese folklore and mythology, giving it a strong sense of cultural significance.
However, the issues explored in the story are universal, including family dynamics, societal pressures, and the human condition. Despite the strengths of the book, there are a few limitations.
CLAMP occasionally relies on convenient plot devices, taking shortcuts for the sake of convenience. Additionally, the series may not be for everyone, as it can be quite dark and unsettling at times.
In conclusion, xxxHolic Volume 9 by CLAMP is undeniably a must-read for fans of the genre. The stunning artwork, complex yet satisfying plot, and thought-provoking themes make for a captivating read.
We highly recommend this book to fantasy and manga enthusiasts looking for a unique and evocative reading experience. Overall, xxxHolic Volume 9 earns a solid 9 out of 10 from us.
