Magi: The Magic of the Labyrinth Volume 30 manga review

Magi Graphic Novel Volume 30 cover image

The manga Magi is set on a world that is an alternate version and recreation of the ancient Old World (similar to ancient Persia).  About 14 years before the story begins, several magic castles (of various architectural styles) begin to appear in this world.  These mysterious ruins, “Dungeons,” are full of treasures and traps.  Aladdin, who is a Magi (a sorcerer of creation), and his friend, King Alibaba Saluja, embark on dangerous and deadly adventures into those Dungeons to find fortune and glory and more adventure.

As Magi, Vol. 30 (Chapters 289 to 298) opens, Alibaba has arrived in the Kou Empire so that he can see Empress Kogyoku.  Finding the Empire in a state of distress, Alibaba begins an intense period of study in order to find a way to save the Empire's economy.  Restoring Kou is a big project that will require bold ambition, and Alibaba will have to call on old friends for help.  Alibaba will also have to visit the country he once ruled, the Kingdom of Balbadd.

[This volume includes bonus manga.]

THE LOWDOWN:  The Magi manga (subtitled The Labyrinth of Magic) races towards the end of the series.  Readers have found so much adventure and so many subplots in its previous 29 graphic novels.

Magi Graphic Novel Volume 30 takes readers to the Kou Empire, although Vol. 29 brought an end to the Kou Empire story arc.  At this point in the narrative, creator Shinobu Ohtaka dives deeply into Alibaba.  As Alibaba attempts to revive the Kou Empire, we get to see the resourcefulness and determination that made Alibaba an exciting adventure-finding character.

I had forgotten what a delightful character he was, but recent volumes are reminding me.  John Werry's work creating the English adaptation of Magi offers engaging characters, especially this volume when he brings out the best in Alibaba.  So yes, Vol. 30 is a quite enjoyable read.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Readers, especially young manga readers, looking for adventure stories will want to read the “Shonen Sunday” title, Magi.

A
8.5 out of 10