I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
Series: Island in a Puddle #1 Published by Kodansha Comics on March 15, 2022
Demographic: Seinen
Genres: Drama, Mystery, Psychological
Source: NetGalley
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A CHILDHOOD IN THE UNDERWORLD
Minato’s tiny apartment might as well be on a deserted island. Despite being in elementary school, it falls on his shoulders to care for his little sister Nagisa, who never stops asking when their mother will make one of her infrequent visits home. One day when she stops by, their mother takes them to an amusement park, only to give Minato some cash and leave them on the Ferris wheel. However, as they reach the top of the ride, lightning strikes their car—but what Minato finds when he awakens is not the grim tragedy he expected . . .
I didn’t think twice when the chance to review the first volume in a new series by Kei Sanbe presented itself. How could I possibly have said no to the brilliant mind who created Erased, one of the most thrilling stories out there? And boy, if Island in a Puddle isn’t just another gripping series!
Readers are hit by an emotional wave as soon as they find that two kids, a boy and a girl, are left alone tending to themselves and struggling to survive. Where is their mother, and what’s behind her infrequent visits? Minato is such a caring boy—and, fortunately, mature for his age—who does anything in his power to not let his little sister worry, while also trying hard to hide their dramatic situation to others. He can’t fool everyone, though. A task that becomes quite complicated on a rainy day after a lightning strikes the ferry wheel the kids are riding . . . The unimaginable happens, and your mind starts to wonder while your heart pumps at big speed, but not as fast as Minato’s. Trust me when I say the horror this poor kid finds himself into is creepily twisted, and it keeps readers on the edge of their seats!
A suspenseful story with a great pacing and an artwork that suits perfectly the characters—and their moods. Are you ready for your life to turn into a living nightmare? Minato wasn’t, but you shall be as brave as him and follow his dark journey until the end!
About Silvia
Through her creativity and blogging, Silvia has met people from different industries and collaborated with them on various projects over the years. Her strong passion for reading and her fascination for different cultures and languages have led her to develop a keen interest in the East-Asian continent. Off to see her? Follow the colourful book road . . . ♡
Goodness, you have my interest piqued AND I’m slightly afraid of what lies at the heart of the ‘horror’ in this!
Horror might be the right word, Verushka!
This sounds like quite the emotional read. I already feel bad for the two siblings, especially the older brother who has to take care of his sister. And the cover! *sobs*
I know, right? And that cover lets on a lot more than it seems . . . All I can say is that it has an even bigger impact after you read this volume!
Ferris wheels freak me out- I didn’t mind them as a kid, but for some reason when I got older and that thing would stop, with me wayyy up in the air… no thanks lol! Anyway… this sounds awesome. Oh my gosh is that kid raising his little sister alone?
I may have to get this.
Then what happens after that would have probably put you in panic mode, Greg! Not that this poor kid wasn’t panicking, mind you . . . Honestly, I’m not giving anything away so that anyone who wants to read it can have the desired reaction(s) when reaching that point. Also, you might like to know that this manga is only five volumes long 😉
It sounds like these characters have been through a lot. I couldn’t imagine being on a Ferris wheel when it was struck by lightning!
The consequences of that event are also unimaginable 👀 . . .
Minato sounds like a character I would love. Thanks for sharing!
Minato is smarter than many adults, lots of kudos to this kid!
This sounds like it would need some tissue.
It’s touching for sure, but also thrilling!
I am a cry baby and I use my books and manga/anime as an excuse to bawl my eyes out, hahaha. Adding a suspense? Now I really have to check this one out. Thanks for sharing Silvia <3
Haha! This one has your name written on it, Vanessa 😉