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xxxHOLiC [xxx ホリック] #3
xxxHOLiC tome 3
Savez-vous que le spiritisme laisse des traces dans les lieux où il est pratiqué ? Et ces traces peuvent se manifester sous les formes les plus inquiétantes. C’est dans un lycée victime de ces problèmes que Watanuki et Dômeki devront mettre en commun leurs talents pour jouer les exorcistes.
192 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2004
13 people are currently reading
872 people want to read
About the author
Clamp
745 books3,138 followersŌkawa Nanase 大川七瀬
[born: 2 May 1967; Ōsaka, bloodtype: A]
Mokona Apapa もこなあぱぱ
[born: 16 Jun 1968, Kyōto; bloodtype: A]
Nekoi Mick 猫井みっく
[born: 21 Jan 1969, Kyōto; bloodtype: O]
Igarashi Satsuki 五十嵐さつき
[born: 8 Feb 1969, Kyōto; bloodtype: A]
CLAMP originally began in 1989 as a twelve-member dōjinshi circle, but by 1990, the circle had diminished from twelve to seven. Of the remaining seven, Tamayo Akiyama, Sei Nanao, and Leeza Sei left the group during the production of the RG Veda manga. Other former members of CLAMP also included Soushi Hishika, O-Kyon, Kazue Nakamori, Yuzuru Inoue and Shinya Ōmi. Currently, there are four members in the group.
In 2004, CLAMP's 15th anniversary as a mangaka group, the members changed their names from Nanase Ohkawa, Mokona Apapa, Mick Nekoi, and Satsuki Igarashi to Ageha Ohkawa, Mokona, Tsubaki Nekoi and Satsuki Igarashi (her name is pronounced the same, but written with different characters) respectively. The August 2004 issue of Newtype USA, a magazine specializing in events of the anime and manga subcultures, reported that the members of CLAMP simply wanted to try out new names. In a later interview with Ohkawa, it was revealed that initially Mokona wanted to drop her surname because it sounded too immature for her liking, while Nekoi disliked people commenting that her name was the same as Mick Jagger's. Ohkawa and Igarashi, wanting to go with the flow of Nekoi's and Mokona's name changes, changed their names as well.
In 2006, they made their first USA public debut at Anime Expo in Anaheim, California. They were well received at the convention, with 6,000 fans in attendance at their panel.
[born: 2 May 1967; Ōsaka, bloodtype: A]
Mokona Apapa もこなあぱぱ
[born: 16 Jun 1968, Kyōto; bloodtype: A]
Nekoi Mick 猫井みっく
[born: 21 Jan 1969, Kyōto; bloodtype: O]
Igarashi Satsuki 五十嵐さつき
[born: 8 Feb 1969, Kyōto; bloodtype: A]
CLAMP originally began in 1989 as a twelve-member dōjinshi circle, but by 1990, the circle had diminished from twelve to seven. Of the remaining seven, Tamayo Akiyama, Sei Nanao, and Leeza Sei left the group during the production of the RG Veda manga. Other former members of CLAMP also included Soushi Hishika, O-Kyon, Kazue Nakamori, Yuzuru Inoue and Shinya Ōmi. Currently, there are four members in the group.
In 2004, CLAMP's 15th anniversary as a mangaka group, the members changed their names from Nanase Ohkawa, Mokona Apapa, Mick Nekoi, and Satsuki Igarashi to Ageha Ohkawa, Mokona, Tsubaki Nekoi and Satsuki Igarashi (her name is pronounced the same, but written with different characters) respectively. The August 2004 issue of Newtype USA, a magazine specializing in events of the anime and manga subcultures, reported that the members of CLAMP simply wanted to try out new names. In a later interview with Ohkawa, it was revealed that initially Mokona wanted to drop her surname because it sounded too immature for her liking, while Nekoi disliked people commenting that her name was the same as Mick Jagger's. Ohkawa and Igarashi, wanting to go with the flow of Nekoi's and Mokona's name changes, changed their names as well.
In 2006, they made their first USA public debut at Anime Expo in Anaheim, California. They were well received at the convention, with 6,000 fans in attendance at their panel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 29, 2020
xxxHolic is a unique story about a man who ends up working for a witch. He deals with spirits and tries to help others being tricked or taken advantage of by them.
The premise was super cool, but I think I would have liked this book way more if I had actually read the first two volumes. I was super intrigued and hooked, but it just felt off. I wasn't entirely sure why things were happening the way they were. If I had that extra knowledge, I definitely would have loved this book more.
The monkey paw story had me the most interested, but the previous story about the school children confused me.
The art is the best part of this book, 100%. I really liked the style and the action that was occurring on the pages. It was impressive!
Overall, this book was okay. I would like to read the previous two volumes before I pick this book up again. I can easily see manga fans loving it! I just need all the information before I grab this. I got this on clearance from an online book outlet since I wanted to expand my manga shelf a bit.
Three out of five stars.
The premise was super cool, but I think I would have liked this book way more if I had actually read the first two volumes. I was super intrigued and hooked, but it just felt off. I wasn't entirely sure why things were happening the way they were. If I had that extra knowledge, I definitely would have loved this book more.
The monkey paw story had me the most interested, but the previous story about the school children confused me.
The art is the best part of this book, 100%. I really liked the style and the action that was occurring on the pages. It was impressive!
Overall, this book was okay. I would like to read the previous two volumes before I pick this book up again. I can easily see manga fans loving it! I just need all the information before I grab this. I got this on clearance from an online book outlet since I wanted to expand my manga shelf a bit.
Three out of five stars.
October 9, 2020
El tercer volumen de xxxHolic se centra en las consecuencias de nuestros actos. Si, de alguna manera, mientes, te aprovechas de otros, o sencillamente no eres una buena persona hacia los demás, con ello vendrá una retribución.
Si bien el factor sobrenatural continúa teniendo un fuerte peso en la historia, lo cierto es que se torna real cuando ilustra que todos cometemos errores, a veces sin ser consciente de ello, y cuando nos damos cuenta, ya es demasiado tarde.
En este volumen también tenemos un pequeño cameo con Syaoran, Kurogane y Fay. Además de un extra precioso con un zorrito, amigo de Yuuko, que cocina delicioso. Pero, fuera de allí, la historia es un mix entre algo muy sombrío y comedia que a veces se siente totalmente fuera de lugar.
Hasta ahora, no puedo decir que tenga un personaje favorito –ni siquiera Yuuko, pues es más bien la curiosidad lo que me mueve a querer conocer su historia. Siendo honestos, xxxHolic no me está gustando tanto como otras series de las CLAMP pero continuaré con el manga porque deseo saber en qué punto se une con Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle.
REVIEWS ANTERIORES:
Volumen 1 | Volumen 2
Si bien el factor sobrenatural continúa teniendo un fuerte peso en la historia, lo cierto es que se torna real cuando ilustra que todos cometemos errores, a veces sin ser consciente de ello, y cuando nos damos cuenta, ya es demasiado tarde.
En este volumen también tenemos un pequeño cameo con Syaoran, Kurogane y Fay. Además de un extra precioso con un zorrito, amigo de Yuuko, que cocina delicioso. Pero, fuera de allí, la historia es un mix entre algo muy sombrío y comedia que a veces se siente totalmente fuera de lugar.
Hasta ahora, no puedo decir que tenga un personaje favorito –ni siquiera Yuuko, pues es más bien la curiosidad lo que me mueve a querer conocer su historia. Siendo honestos, xxxHolic no me está gustando tanto como otras series de las CLAMP pero continuaré con el manga porque deseo saber en qué punto se une con Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle.
REVIEWS ANTERIORES:
Volumen 1 | Volumen 2
May 29, 2019
I love this manga's art, and the central cast is cute and/or funny. Yuuko, who is prominently featured on all the covers so far, is great. She's both wise and selfish, has a robust appetite for delicious food and drink, and she also has a great sense of style and aesthetics in her fashion choices. The whimsical references to the rest of CLAMP's entire oeuvre are cheeky fun. And the theme that you can't get something for nothing when dealing with the supernatural is cool and chilling.
The story's a little lacking, though, in my opinion. I can't bring myself to care about these one-off stories with foolish one-off characters whose hubris is obviously going to bite them in the butt, like in those old horror TV shows with a different "story with a bad ending" every episode. I'm hoping that eventually there will be something further-reaching in store, that will more directly affect the crew in Yuuko's shop.
The story's a little lacking, though, in my opinion. I can't bring myself to care about these one-off stories with foolish one-off characters whose hubris is obviously going to bite them in the butt, like in those old horror TV shows with a different "story with a bad ending" every episode. I'm hoping that eventually there will be something further-reaching in store, that will more directly affect the crew in Yuuko's shop.
July 17, 2019
Two big stories in this one along with a smaller one (which leads to yet another crossover and I had a laugh at seeing Fay and Kurogane talk in the back while Syaoran was just feeling awkward). The bigger ones are about Angel-san and it includes a favour from Himawari and cute Chobit ears, I really loved this story it was much fun to read though I wasn't a fan of all the constant bickering. Next up is a woman who finds a monkey's paw at Yuuko's and when she finds out about it makes wishes.. you may imagine what happens to her. It was really spooky though I was shaking my head at the woman's stupidity. We also get a glimpse here of why Himawari is at times so stand-offish. Oh, and a short story at the end which always has been one of my favourites. :)
Uprating to 4.5 stars!
Uprating to 4.5 stars!
February 7, 2014
This manga is one of the most interesting and unpredictable series I have ever read. I cannot find words to describe how good this series is. Once again, CLAMP has created a wonderful series that is just beautiful and just a lot of fun to love. XXXHolic is very unique and has an excellent character cast. I’ll admit that I think that this manga may be one of CLAMP’s finest. Maybe not the best but one of the better ones.
The thing that stands out about Holic is the setting. It’s a paranormal universe with supernatural creatures from Japanese culture and folklore. Almost every single chapter deals with Watanuki and Domeki going on an ‘errand’ of some sorts and Yuko gives a little bit of information about the supernatural world around them.
The story in this manga is also very interesting. It’s about a student named Watanuki Kimihiro who has the power to see spirits. As he runs away from them he stumbles upon a shop that drives them away. He meets of the owner of the shop named Yuko Ichihara who tells him that she runs a shop that grants wishes. However for every wish that is made a price must be paid in equal value. As he makes a wish to be released of his curse for seeing and attracting spirits Yuko makes an agreement with him that he can work in her shop until he receives enough credit to pay the price. He then runs errands with a classmate named Shizuka Domeki who apparently has a pure aura that repels spirits. They encounter the supernatural and come across all sorts of different creatures.
So, for a story that is interesting and a lot of fun you would think that the character cast is not so good right? Well, that is not the case.
The character cast in Holic is great. They’re each memorable and have their own distinct personalities.
Yuko is a lot of fun. She is like a mentor towards Watanuki but she can also act immature and goofy at times as well. What’s interesting is that some of the decisions and her interference might not seem all that important at the time but it later materials it shows that everything she says and does has some sort of meaning and effect towards the plot.
Watanuki is a character that can be really funny or really annoying. He’s childish, immature, whines a lot but also has a good heart and he tends to place too much of a burden on his shoulders. I think he’s an amazing character. He’s not the generic hero that is usually in manga. He has a little bit of caring nature while also allowing his emotions to get the better of him. His crush on his classmate Himawari is kind of obnoxious and can get annoying at the same time.
Domeki is pretty cool for a side character. He’s quiet, serious, and is very observant to what’s going on around him. Even if he can’t see the supernatural creatures like Watanuki can. He also has a big appetite and has no problem bossing Watanuki around when it comes to food.
Himawari is also a good character. She’s nice, always has a positive attitude and there’s definitely something about this character that gives the feeling that she’s not all that the manga makes her out to be. But that’s for later volumes and spoilers.
Maru and Moro are fun side characters that don’t tend to do much except serve Yuko. It’s pretty obvious that they’re not human but they’re a lot of fun with their playful personalities and it’s very interesting to see them annoy the crap out of Watanuki.
And speaking of which, there’s also Mokona as well. He’s a lot of fun and I just find him absolutely adorable. He likes to tease Watanuki and acts very similar to Yuko when it comes to food and sake.
This manga is just simply wonderful. The characters are great, the story is fantastic, the setting is interesting and I’m just dying to read more.
The thing that stands out about Holic is the setting. It’s a paranormal universe with supernatural creatures from Japanese culture and folklore. Almost every single chapter deals with Watanuki and Domeki going on an ‘errand’ of some sorts and Yuko gives a little bit of information about the supernatural world around them.
The story in this manga is also very interesting. It’s about a student named Watanuki Kimihiro who has the power to see spirits. As he runs away from them he stumbles upon a shop that drives them away. He meets of the owner of the shop named Yuko Ichihara who tells him that she runs a shop that grants wishes. However for every wish that is made a price must be paid in equal value. As he makes a wish to be released of his curse for seeing and attracting spirits Yuko makes an agreement with him that he can work in her shop until he receives enough credit to pay the price. He then runs errands with a classmate named Shizuka Domeki who apparently has a pure aura that repels spirits. They encounter the supernatural and come across all sorts of different creatures.
So, for a story that is interesting and a lot of fun you would think that the character cast is not so good right? Well, that is not the case.
The character cast in Holic is great. They’re each memorable and have their own distinct personalities.
Yuko is a lot of fun. She is like a mentor towards Watanuki but she can also act immature and goofy at times as well. What’s interesting is that some of the decisions and her interference might not seem all that important at the time but it later materials it shows that everything she says and does has some sort of meaning and effect towards the plot.
Watanuki is a character that can be really funny or really annoying. He’s childish, immature, whines a lot but also has a good heart and he tends to place too much of a burden on his shoulders. I think he’s an amazing character. He’s not the generic hero that is usually in manga. He has a little bit of caring nature while also allowing his emotions to get the better of him. His crush on his classmate Himawari is kind of obnoxious and can get annoying at the same time.
Domeki is pretty cool for a side character. He’s quiet, serious, and is very observant to what’s going on around him. Even if he can’t see the supernatural creatures like Watanuki can. He also has a big appetite and has no problem bossing Watanuki around when it comes to food.
Himawari is also a good character. She’s nice, always has a positive attitude and there’s definitely something about this character that gives the feeling that she’s not all that the manga makes her out to be. But that’s for later volumes and spoilers.
Maru and Moro are fun side characters that don’t tend to do much except serve Yuko. It’s pretty obvious that they’re not human but they’re a lot of fun with their playful personalities and it’s very interesting to see them annoy the crap out of Watanuki.
And speaking of which, there’s also Mokona as well. He’s a lot of fun and I just find him absolutely adorable. He likes to tease Watanuki and acts very similar to Yuko when it comes to food and sake.
This manga is just simply wonderful. The characters are great, the story is fantastic, the setting is interesting and I’m just dying to read more.
April 24, 2017
Very fun read. Sometimes CLAMP's character are criticized for the exaggerated length of their limbs, but I like it; Yuko is probably my most favorite manga character in terms of appearance, and one of my top favorite female characters, overall.
October 19, 2015
The monkey's Paw story really brought it home for me in this volume. Probbaly my second favorite volume in volumes 1-6.
February 1, 2016
This volume included on the most cautionary tales thus far: be careful what you wish for and, above all, don't think you're above everything because that will cause your downfall.
March 8, 2017
Me reading this book: NOOOOOOPE nope nope nope nope AHHHHHHHHHH Nooooooooope ooh foxes!
Obviously this series knows how to keep me from running away in terror and not returning. Foxesssss!
Obviously this series knows how to keep me from running away in terror and not returning. Foxesssss!
April 26, 2019
The stories in this one are a little more intense, with Watanuki and his not-really-friend Domeki finding a demon and then getting caught up in a monkey paw story.
August 28, 2020
Interesantes los casos de la Ouija Japonesa y la de la chica de la mano de mono
May 13, 2021
El claro ejemplo de como los deseos se puede hacer literalmente realidad y jodernos la vida 😂😂
Me gustan las historias que están contando en la historia general pero me gustaría poder ir conociendo más rápido a lxs protagonistas. Siento que, incluso en algunos tomos, no conocemos nada de ellos pero a la vez si. Por como se comportan, por cosas que dicen .etc
Me gustan las historias que están contando en la historia general pero me gustaría poder ir conociendo más rápido a lxs protagonistas. Siento que, incluso en algunos tomos, no conocemos nada de ellos pero a la vez si. Por como se comportan, por cosas que dicen .etc
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2018
3.5/5⭐️
May 2, 2020
Pretty interesting and really good manga so far! Really love the art style and story! Really addicting manga😻👻👻😁❤️❤️
December 11, 2022
Bersikap adil meskipun tidak terlihat menyenangkan
April 20, 2015
Today's post is on XXXHolic volume 3 by CLAMP. It is the third in the series, so you need to have read the first two to understand the story. It is 176 pages long and is published by DEL REY. The cover has Yuko on it looking very pretty and wrapping around to Watanuki on the back. The intended reader is someone who likes Japanese mythology, ghost stories, and very pretty pictures. The story is told from Watanuki's perspective. There Be Spoilers Ahead.
From the back of the book- Kimihiro Watnuki is haunted by spirits- and the only way for him to escape his curse is to become the indentured servant of the mysterious witch Yuko Ichihara. But when Kimihiro's beloved, beautiful Himawari-chan, asks him for a favor, he and his eternal rival, the exorcist Domeki, must go on a spirit-busting adventure without Yuko there to save them!
Meanwhile, Yuko gives a young woman a precious cylindrical box from her treasure room. There's just one caveat: She must never open it. Inside is a magical device with a terrifying reputation! Can Kimihiro save an ambitious young lady from her own overconfidence?
Review- The two stories in volume are pretty creepy. Himawari asks for help because one of her friends is playing with dangerous things. It really deals with the power of suggestion and in Watanuki's world that makes things really happen and almost kill him. It is pretty creepy. The second story is about a monkey's paw. That story is not native to Japan but it fits very well into this world. With the woman making wishes and understanding how dangerous the paw is. You can see the ending coming but it is still shocking. There is a little ending story about Watanuki getting Oden noddles from a fox spirit and it very cute. Nice after this hair raising volume. Very little is done about Watanuki's eyes other than he uses them to help or at least try and help people. I like that Watanuki continues to try and help others even when he knows that they are not going to listen to him. More spirits and stuff coming up soon!
I give this one Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money many years ago.
From the back of the book- Kimihiro Watnuki is haunted by spirits- and the only way for him to escape his curse is to become the indentured servant of the mysterious witch Yuko Ichihara. But when Kimihiro's beloved, beautiful Himawari-chan, asks him for a favor, he and his eternal rival, the exorcist Domeki, must go on a spirit-busting adventure without Yuko there to save them!
Meanwhile, Yuko gives a young woman a precious cylindrical box from her treasure room. There's just one caveat: She must never open it. Inside is a magical device with a terrifying reputation! Can Kimihiro save an ambitious young lady from her own overconfidence?
Review- The two stories in volume are pretty creepy. Himawari asks for help because one of her friends is playing with dangerous things. It really deals with the power of suggestion and in Watanuki's world that makes things really happen and almost kill him. It is pretty creepy. The second story is about a monkey's paw. That story is not native to Japan but it fits very well into this world. With the woman making wishes and understanding how dangerous the paw is. You can see the ending coming but it is still shocking. There is a little ending story about Watanuki getting Oden noddles from a fox spirit and it very cute. Nice after this hair raising volume. Very little is done about Watanuki's eyes other than he uses them to help or at least try and help people. I like that Watanuki continues to try and help others even when he knows that they are not going to listen to him. More spirits and stuff coming up soon!
I give this one Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money many years ago.
February 24, 2014
Yay this volume was an improvement over the last one, and that makes me happy!
What I'm finding I really love about this series is even though it's fantasy, there is so much reality in it! And I mean that in the messages the storylines are putting across. It started with the first volume when Yuko-san was talking to the woman about quitting the internet. I loved what Yuko-san had to say about it all - about how an individual has to make the choice for themselves or else they won't be able to go through it. I thought about how that message applied to so many things in people's lives. That might be one of the reasons I like her so much!
Then in the second volume, she was telling Watanuki about psychics. I loved how she was essentially calling "psychics" on their shit as frauds and why. Considering she is somewhat of a mystic herself, it was great to see her not agreeing with everyone and being able to tell when people were lying.
This volume, the reality I loved most was the way the monkey paw was handled. The stupid girl kept saying "I know this has happened to other people but it'll never happen to me!" I feel like humans have this kind of thought for EVERYTHING - their thought process for their bad behavior or choices when they know consequences are "That won't happen to me." Because everyone loves to think they're invincible, and so there is this natural need to feel you can do anything. But you simply can't. It's morbid, but I love how it played out in this volume. Nobody is invincible and consequences WILL happen to you, whether you want to believe it or not.
Once again, loved the artwork. Yuko-san is just so much fun to look at. She wears the most interesting clothing. She always looks so exotic and bad ass. I LOVED the first chapter splash page spread! Amazing!!! Well, I mean I love most of the chapter splash pages, but that one is probably my favorite!
Onto the next!!
What I'm finding I really love about this series is even though it's fantasy, there is so much reality in it! And I mean that in the messages the storylines are putting across. It started with the first volume when Yuko-san was talking to the woman about quitting the internet. I loved what Yuko-san had to say about it all - about how an individual has to make the choice for themselves or else they won't be able to go through it. I thought about how that message applied to so many things in people's lives. That might be one of the reasons I like her so much!
Then in the second volume, she was telling Watanuki about psychics. I loved how she was essentially calling "psychics" on their shit as frauds and why. Considering she is somewhat of a mystic herself, it was great to see her not agreeing with everyone and being able to tell when people were lying.
This volume, the reality I loved most was the way the monkey paw was handled. The stupid girl kept saying "I know this has happened to other people but it'll never happen to me!" I feel like humans have this kind of thought for EVERYTHING - their thought process for their bad behavior or choices when they know consequences are "That won't happen to me." Because everyone loves to think they're invincible, and so there is this natural need to feel you can do anything. But you simply can't. It's morbid, but I love how it played out in this volume. Nobody is invincible and consequences WILL happen to you, whether you want to believe it or not.
Once again, loved the artwork. Yuko-san is just so much fun to look at. She wears the most interesting clothing. She always looks so exotic and bad ass. I LOVED the first chapter splash page spread! Amazing!!! Well, I mean I love most of the chapter splash pages, but that one is probably my favorite!
Onto the next!!
May 13, 2008
Overall Rating: A-
Synopsis: xxxHolic by Clamp follows Watanuki, an orphan who is plagued by spirits. While being chased by spirits, Watanuki runs into a strange shop and meets a strange woman named Yūko. She turns out to be a powerful witch, and makes a deal with Watanuki to help him remove his "curse" in exchange for working in her shop and cooking for her. Hijinks and adventure ensue.
I can't remember now why I picked up the first volume of xxxHolic, but I'm glad I did. The series starts off innocently enough, with the main character, Watanuki, being chased by spirits. By chance, he touches the fence of a strange shop, and the spirits disappear. But wait! "There are no coincidences, only hitsuzen". Hitsuzen, or fate, is one of the recurring themes in xxxHolic, and Watanuki's "chance" encounter at the strange shop leads him to meeting the shop's owner, Yūko, and his life is changed.
She offers to help him lift his "curse" (being able to see and interact with spirits), but only if he can pay the price. Since he can't pay up front, he becomes her indentured servant, cleaning the shop and cooking for her. The series really picks up though after the introduction of Watanuki's "rival" Dômeki. I put rival in quotes because it's one sided. While Watanuki considers Dômeki his rival, Dômeki alternates between seemingly not caring about Watanuki and protecting him. Dômeki can't see spirits, but he can exorcise them, so even though Watanuki hates it when he's around, Watanuki often needs Dômeki's help.
xxxHolic combines Japanese folklore and mythology with humor to excellent effect. I definitely recommend checking it out.
For more manga and anime reviews, please check out Hobotaku.
Synopsis: xxxHolic by Clamp follows Watanuki, an orphan who is plagued by spirits. While being chased by spirits, Watanuki runs into a strange shop and meets a strange woman named Yūko. She turns out to be a powerful witch, and makes a deal with Watanuki to help him remove his "curse" in exchange for working in her shop and cooking for her. Hijinks and adventure ensue.
I can't remember now why I picked up the first volume of xxxHolic, but I'm glad I did. The series starts off innocently enough, with the main character, Watanuki, being chased by spirits. By chance, he touches the fence of a strange shop, and the spirits disappear. But wait! "There are no coincidences, only hitsuzen". Hitsuzen, or fate, is one of the recurring themes in xxxHolic, and Watanuki's "chance" encounter at the strange shop leads him to meeting the shop's owner, Yūko, and his life is changed.
She offers to help him lift his "curse" (being able to see and interact with spirits), but only if he can pay the price. Since he can't pay up front, he becomes her indentured servant, cleaning the shop and cooking for her. The series really picks up though after the introduction of Watanuki's "rival" Dômeki. I put rival in quotes because it's one sided. While Watanuki considers Dômeki his rival, Dômeki alternates between seemingly not caring about Watanuki and protecting him. Dômeki can't see spirits, but he can exorcise them, so even though Watanuki hates it when he's around, Watanuki often needs Dômeki's help.
xxxHolic combines Japanese folklore and mythology with humor to excellent effect. I definitely recommend checking it out.
For more manga and anime reviews, please check out Hobotaku.
September 23, 2011
XxxHolic Volume 3 by the CLAMP mangaka group has two main stories and a brief after story that will become an important detail in later volumes. The two main ghost stories are both set in schools and rely on the inborn stubbornness of people. There is also a recurring theme of things not being what they seem.
In the first story, Watanuki and Dômeki are sent by Yuko to check out a reported haunting at a high school. Himawari has heard of the school's ouija game getting out of hand and causing trouble for the students. Although Watanuki would prefer to go alone, it quickly becomes apparent that Dômeki's inability to see spirits and his training at the shrine has given him a powerful combination to repel and protect against spirits.
The second story is a great retelling of W. W. Jacob's 1902 story, "The Monkey's Paw." Yuko in her store room of treasures happens to have one (or perhaps, the one). A student teacher working on her thesis demands to buy it. Yuko tries to warn her against it but she of course continues to insist. So all Yuko can do is warn her to not open the container. That advice, is of course, ignored and the story plays out to its expected ending.
Volume 3 ends with a little tale of a chance meeting between Watanuki and a young fox spirit. The fox spirit is the son of the owner of a noodle cart that exists on the border between the human and spirit worlds. Watanuki's ability to find the cart is another example of his unusual abilities. It's also the start of a new friendship for him and a chance to learn that not all spirits are malevolent.
As the fox spirit meeting ends up being important later on in the series, the anime series makes a bigger deal about this initial meeting. In the anime, Watanuki's first meeting is turned into an entire episode.
In the first story, Watanuki and Dômeki are sent by Yuko to check out a reported haunting at a high school. Himawari has heard of the school's ouija game getting out of hand and causing trouble for the students. Although Watanuki would prefer to go alone, it quickly becomes apparent that Dômeki's inability to see spirits and his training at the shrine has given him a powerful combination to repel and protect against spirits.
The second story is a great retelling of W. W. Jacob's 1902 story, "The Monkey's Paw." Yuko in her store room of treasures happens to have one (or perhaps, the one). A student teacher working on her thesis demands to buy it. Yuko tries to warn her against it but she of course continues to insist. So all Yuko can do is warn her to not open the container. That advice, is of course, ignored and the story plays out to its expected ending.
Volume 3 ends with a little tale of a chance meeting between Watanuki and a young fox spirit. The fox spirit is the son of the owner of a noodle cart that exists on the border between the human and spirit worlds. Watanuki's ability to find the cart is another example of his unusual abilities. It's also the start of a new friendship for him and a chance to learn that not all spirits are malevolent.
As the fox spirit meeting ends up being important later on in the series, the anime series makes a bigger deal about this initial meeting. In the anime, Watanuki's first meeting is turned into an entire episode.
December 6, 2018
Just as prophecied, Watanuki is spending more and more time with Doumeki, aided by Yuuko’s constant encouragement. Not that Watanuki is in a position to refuse either of them. Not when it’s Himawari-chan coming to Yuuko with a problem involving a school, a game, and a spiritual presence manifesting in a nasty way. Nor is Himawari the only one having problems. An overconfident student and collectior of antiquities finds herself in over her head, when she decides an item from Yuuko’s collection is perfect for her. Watanuki can’t escape from all this, not when he’s working for Yuuko and looking entirely too appetizing to spirits himself. Fortunately for him, he’s got both Yuuko and Doumeki looking after him in turn, not that Watanuki would consider that to be good fortune. :)
The overall arc in this manga continues to tantalize with Doumeki becoming a major part of it, much to my delight. Doumeki is nearly as fond of teasing Watanuki as Yuuko is in his dry, deadpan way. I’ve got to agree with Yuuko and Himawari, the energy between Watanuki and Doumeki is fun. Himawari shows signs of there being more to her in both the story of the haunted school and a chance encounter with the overconfident antique collector. Yuuko continues to alternate between being playful and enigmatically wise when she’s not being both. Watanuki’s cross-over moment of wearing personacom ears was an interesting way of bringing Chobits into the story. Both the main plots were scary in a classical fairy tale/ghost story fashion, showing what happens to those who carelessly toy with supernatural forces, all the while allowing Yuuko to guide Watanuki further into her world. For all of these things, I give this four stars.
The overall arc in this manga continues to tantalize with Doumeki becoming a major part of it, much to my delight. Doumeki is nearly as fond of teasing Watanuki as Yuuko is in his dry, deadpan way. I’ve got to agree with Yuuko and Himawari, the energy between Watanuki and Doumeki is fun. Himawari shows signs of there being more to her in both the story of the haunted school and a chance encounter with the overconfident antique collector. Yuuko continues to alternate between being playful and enigmatically wise when she’s not being both. Watanuki’s cross-over moment of wearing personacom ears was an interesting way of bringing Chobits into the story. Both the main plots were scary in a classical fairy tale/ghost story fashion, showing what happens to those who carelessly toy with supernatural forces, all the while allowing Yuuko to guide Watanuki further into her world. For all of these things, I give this four stars.
March 7, 2020
Watanuki-chan is back for more adventures, still indentured to the smokin' hot witch Yuko-san, who is more guardian angel than tormentor to our ill-tempered hero. Yuko-san gives the spirit-sensitive Watanuki-chan a chance to be a hero to his maybe-someday gf Himawara-chan by rescuing her high school from evil spirits. He does this, as he does anything, reluctantly, forced as he is to be in company of his frenemy Domeki-kun. The irresistibly beautiful Yuko-san coaches by remote control as she calmly puffs on a pipe.
In a second plot, an overconfident folklore student takes a mysterious cylinder from Yuko-san, free on the condition that she does not look at what is inside. You know that will not go well.
I read these little guilty pleasures because I do alphabet-soup challenges as an overlay to my other reading challenges, and it is awfully difficult to find titles that start with "X". I'm not hooked on this stuff because I'm in love with a cartoon witch, or under her spell (except to the limited extent that maybe I am). I don't have to read volume 4. I only will if I feel like it.
In a second plot, an overconfident folklore student takes a mysterious cylinder from Yuko-san, free on the condition that she does not look at what is inside. You know that will not go well.
I read these little guilty pleasures because I do alphabet-soup challenges as an overlay to my other reading challenges, and it is awfully difficult to find titles that start with "X". I'm not hooked on this stuff because I'm in love with a cartoon witch, or under her spell (except to the limited extent that maybe I am). I don't have to read volume 4. I only will if I feel like it.
May 4, 2012
XXXHolIC volume 3
I can say that I really enjoyed this volume, loved all the diffret stories in it but I kind of don't understand the mixture between the comedy in this series and the dark stories that happens to some of the characters, which I like because it makes it unique but it's also confusing.
And I really got to say the shouting and the ranting of the guy (yukamari I think that's his name) is really annoying and MUCH MUCH MUCH worse than Usagi Chan in Sailor Moon (she's a girl it's very cute on her, but he..... plain annoying :@)
I'm still not sure about this manga since I know that there are way better other manga series out there but I will read it anyways. It's realy FUN but so far nothing amazing.
I can say that I really enjoyed this volume, loved all the diffret stories in it but I kind of don't understand the mixture between the comedy in this series and the dark stories that happens to some of the characters, which I like because it makes it unique but it's also confusing.
And I really got to say the shouting and the ranting of the guy (yukamari I think that's his name) is really annoying and MUCH MUCH MUCH worse than Usagi Chan in Sailor Moon (she's a girl it's very cute on her, but he..... plain annoying :@)
I'm still not sure about this manga since I know that there are way better other manga series out there but I will read it anyways. It's realy FUN but so far nothing amazing.
March 22, 2014
Two of the oldest and most well-known occult objects are explored in this third installation of Watanuki's adventures - the Ouija Board (or Angel-san) and the Monkey's Paw. Both of these superstitions are just that, but the story is none the less frightening and entertaining. Watanuki is mostly a spectator - he can't really help the woman with the Monkey's Paw and Yuko does most of the work with the guardian spirit who reacts to the Angel-san - but clearly his relationship with Domeki is evolving, and this is the true theme of this collection. They still hate each other, of course, but Watanuki has almost accepted the fact that Watanuki can be very useful in helping with spirits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2008
CLAMP, xxxHolic vol. 3 (Del Rey, 2004)
Now things are starting to shift into gear. We've got a better idea of where the characters are positioned on this particular gameboard, how the story's going to tie into Tsubasa, and a bunch more. There's still that tone thing I can't quite wrap my head around, and since I'm reading it in tandem with Love Hina (which is superior), I can't help comparing the two, but it's still fun. ***
Now things are starting to shift into gear. We've got a better idea of where the characters are positioned on this particular gameboard, how the story's going to tie into Tsubasa, and a bunch more. There's still that tone thing I can't quite wrap my head around, and since I'm reading it in tandem with Love Hina (which is superior), I can't help comparing the two, but it's still fun. ***
March 19, 2010
I actually read the Ultimate version of this book (the huge one with all 3 of the first copies all mashed into one, huge, fantastical one).
Nonetheless it was awesome. I get way too into my manga, and this is definitely one that made me laugh out loud (in other words, you'll probably smile when you read this one. Perhaps utter a chuckle).
I've begun to watch the anime as well. It's fun to compare ^-^
Nonetheless it was awesome. I get way too into my manga, and this is definitely one that made me laugh out loud (in other words, you'll probably smile when you read this one. Perhaps utter a chuckle).
I've begun to watch the anime as well. It's fun to compare ^-^
July 25, 2012
A good volume. :3 Doumeki starts coming in to things here and since I'm a serious Doumeki/Watanuki fan, that makes me feel just peachy. Doumeki is always saving Watanuki. They're so funny together. I just love them.
There's a Chobits reference and Clow is mentioned again as well as the trans-dimensioners being helped out again. (I'm getting the feeling, they pop up regularly throughout the manga unlike the anime.)
There's a Chobits reference and Clow is mentioned again as well as the trans-dimensioners being helped out again. (I'm getting the feeling, they pop up regularly throughout the manga unlike the anime.)
May 24, 2014
xxxHOLiC was pretty unique and cool. My problems with it are all the crossovers into other CLAMP manga, and I don't want to have to read every other manga they have made. The references are mostly well explained.
And then there is also the issue of plot. I can't tell if there is an actual plot, or if it is just Yuko and Watanuki running around granting wishes.
As I said, it is unique and cool, and really well drawn.
And then there is also the issue of plot. I can't tell if there is an actual plot, or if it is just Yuko and Watanuki running around granting wishes.
As I said, it is unique and cool, and really well drawn.
December 2, 2016
It took time but things are starting to connect and I'm curious enough to continue on with the series. There are a lot of answers to be given because after all this is just the start but it's a good start I just hope it doesn't get all confusing like Tsubasa. I like the relationship watanuki has with that archery guy and I wonder what himawari-chan(?) is. Also that monkey's paw business was freaking scary and creepy
December 2, 2019
Me encanto releer este tomo la historia de la "ouija" o "el Angel" como lo llaman en la escuela de Watanaki es muy buena pero la mejor de las historias es "La mano del mono".
La verdad que las historias o los suceso que le pasan a Watanaki siempre tiene una moraleja muy bien representada y nos deja muy en claro que todo tiene un precio. Yuuko es la mejor sin ninguna duda.
100% recomendado
WEN
La verdad que las historias o los suceso que le pasan a Watanaki siempre tiene una moraleja muy bien representada y nos deja muy en claro que todo tiene un precio. Yuuko es la mejor sin ninguna duda.
100% recomendado
WEN
March 19, 2019
The third book in the series is an improvement on the second book because the story in it is one of the best I have read so far. The Monkey Paw story is a great teaching story and the best by far is the story involving the school. We can all learn things from these stories and I was glad to read them as they prove to me that there could be hope for human kind.
I am so glad that I read this one and feel like I could be a better person if I can follow the examples set forth in the book.
I am so glad that I read this one and feel like I could be a better person if I can follow the examples set forth in the book.
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