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Reviewed by Michael Aronson “That cocky cook Jan is back, continuing his nonstop quest towards becoming the world’s greatest cuisine master, by entering the first Young Adult Chinese Cooking Contest. Hundreds of chefs, including Jan’s uppity rival Kiriko, flock to the Tokyo Dome for the competition. Will these chefs show Jan what true flavor is? Or will he turn the tables on them and become the culinary king of Japan? Remember, ‘Cooking is a battle!’ Well, according to Jan it is.” It’s only volume two and war has been declared. It’s the start of a competition that will span the next few volumes of the series, and already Jan has made enemies with almost all the other contestants and plenty of the judges. There’s just something far too pleasing in following the exploits of a competitor who loves rubbing his victories in everyone else’s face. Kiriko, Jan’s rival at his restaurant and in the competition, gets more page time in this volume. Her relationship with Jan might just be the greatest draw of the book, as it’s never clear what the two really think about each other. Sometimes they demonstrate unspoken respect, sometimes comfort in each other’s company, and oftentimes just flat-out hostility toward each other. Is there any sexual tension? Maybe, maybe not . . . probably not, it depends on the reader, but who knows what may develop as the series continues. A competition means a host of new characters, and each of them has an outstanding character trait in regards to their personality and cooking style. We haven’t really seen them in action yet, but we know each of them despises Jan in their own particular way. This is also partly due to Jan’s underhanded tactic in dominating the opening round of the competition. He’s already earned one bruise for his tactlessness, and he’s clearly in for a greater world of pain if he doesn’t wise up. Which he probably won’t do. Unique genre, unique art, and consistently fun and riveting. This is Japan’s answer to America’s superhero rut. Interested in writing for MangaLife? We're always looking for talented reviewers and columnists, so drop us a line! Charles Webb Editor-in-Chief, MangaLife.com |
8 April 2011
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