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Kamudo #1
Kamudo, Vol. 1
In the utopian nation of Ryujinkyo, Kamuna—a boy born with the form of a human and the left hand of a dragon—grapples with his identity in a society that both questions and fears his existence. As he begins his training in the ancient art of ryuken, his determination to prove himself fuels a growing rivalry with the fierce demi-dragon Gindu. Meanwhile, tensions simmer beneath the surface as factions outside Ryujinkyo grow restless, seeking to control the divine pulse that sustains the land...
200 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2025
13 people are currently reading
3974 people want to read
About the author
Akira Himekawa
109 books548 followersAkira Himekawa is the collaboration of two women, A. Honda and S. Nagano. Together they have created nine manga adventures featuring Link and the popular video game world of The Legend of Zelda, including Ocarina of Time, Oracle of Seasons and Four Swords. Their most recent work, Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, was serialized in Shogaku Rokunensei.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 9, 2025
A Must-Read Manga for Art & Fantasy Fans! ✨️
Akira Himekawa, the acclaimed duo behind the Legend of Zelda manga, brings all their visual magic to this brand-new fantasy adventure. If you're a fan of classic manga or grew up loving the Zelda series (like me!), you absolutely need to pick up Kamudo Volume 1. I was immediately hooked by the richness of the art, blended with the traditional design aesthetic. The creators' decades of experience shine through with visually stunning artwork that sparks nostalgia, making me think back to some of my favorite comics and manga growing up.
The line work is equally gorgeous and dynamic. I was captivated by how the artwork beautifully depicted the natural elements, making the world's magical introduction a visual treat in some of my favorite panels. The sheer skill in character design is incredible—from the tough wolf warrior, who embodies primal strength, to the mythical and magical shapes of the elders, who exude ancient wisdom, every character feels alive. This is especially true when noticing the fluid lines of character's fur and clothing, juxtaposed with the sharp, kinetic lines that bring the action scenes to life. The creators’ powerful black-and-white shading conveys such strong emotion and kinetic energy, no color required.
Beyond the dynamic action, the world itself is rendered with a breathtaking sense of wonder. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films, you will find Kamudo captures that same magic, grand adventure, and devotion to nature. The beautiful artwork and detailed creature designs strongly recall favorites like the deep environmental themes of Princess Mononoke and the sheer imaginative scale of Spirited Away.
This debut volume expertly handles the story pacing, delivering thrilling action sequences and satisfying training montages. It provides an excellent introduction to the high-fantasy world of Hinoaruchi, setting the stage for a grand conflict hinted at by the ominous prophecy. The story sets up what promises to be an exciting and epic series that perfectly balances thrilling action with the poignant journey of Kamuna, our fascinating protagonist. He is a true underdog—a boy uniquely different from everyone else—fighting against a society that struggles to understand him. I cannot wait to find out what is next in store for this new series.
Highly recommended! I've already added this to my book wishlist for a physical copy for my home library!
Perfect for fans of:
✨️ The Legend of Zelda
💖 Studio Ghibli (especially Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away)
💛 Fantasy adventure series
💕 Magical worlds
💖 Cozy books
💛 Underdogs and misfits
🐾 Animals and nature
Thank you to VIZ Media and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this manga for review consideration. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
Akira Himekawa, the acclaimed duo behind the Legend of Zelda manga, brings all their visual magic to this brand-new fantasy adventure. If you're a fan of classic manga or grew up loving the Zelda series (like me!), you absolutely need to pick up Kamudo Volume 1. I was immediately hooked by the richness of the art, blended with the traditional design aesthetic. The creators' decades of experience shine through with visually stunning artwork that sparks nostalgia, making me think back to some of my favorite comics and manga growing up.
The line work is equally gorgeous and dynamic. I was captivated by how the artwork beautifully depicted the natural elements, making the world's magical introduction a visual treat in some of my favorite panels. The sheer skill in character design is incredible—from the tough wolf warrior, who embodies primal strength, to the mythical and magical shapes of the elders, who exude ancient wisdom, every character feels alive. This is especially true when noticing the fluid lines of character's fur and clothing, juxtaposed with the sharp, kinetic lines that bring the action scenes to life. The creators’ powerful black-and-white shading conveys such strong emotion and kinetic energy, no color required.
Beyond the dynamic action, the world itself is rendered with a breathtaking sense of wonder. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films, you will find Kamudo captures that same magic, grand adventure, and devotion to nature. The beautiful artwork and detailed creature designs strongly recall favorites like the deep environmental themes of Princess Mononoke and the sheer imaginative scale of Spirited Away.
This debut volume expertly handles the story pacing, delivering thrilling action sequences and satisfying training montages. It provides an excellent introduction to the high-fantasy world of Hinoaruchi, setting the stage for a grand conflict hinted at by the ominous prophecy. The story sets up what promises to be an exciting and epic series that perfectly balances thrilling action with the poignant journey of Kamuna, our fascinating protagonist. He is a true underdog—a boy uniquely different from everyone else—fighting against a society that struggles to understand him. I cannot wait to find out what is next in store for this new series.
Highly recommended! I've already added this to my book wishlist for a physical copy for my home library!
Perfect for fans of:
✨️ The Legend of Zelda
💖 Studio Ghibli (especially Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away)
💛 Fantasy adventure series
💕 Magical worlds
💖 Cozy books
💛 Underdogs and misfits
🐾 Animals and nature
Thank you to VIZ Media and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this manga for review consideration. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
January 5, 2026
the story seems promising but its really the amazing detailed art that grabs your attention.
January 4, 2026
Absolutely beautiful art. I love the concept of the world, but I do think there were opportunities for more character development. I am so curious as to where this is going though, so I'm excited for the next volume!
TW: bullying, violence, ableism
TW: bullying, violence, ableism
December 20, 2025
Some of the most beautifully illustrated panels I've ever seen in a manga series! I will definitely be continuing, especially for the art.
October 16, 2025
I'll give the next volume a try. This one was interesting and I love the world that the creator is building. Having all of that background and setting slows the pace of any action. I'm hopeful that the adventure kicks off soon.
November 9, 2025
This seemed to have some promise. Visually, the art looks much like The Dark Crystal but the story is not depressing as shit. Also, support women mangakas! I will continue reading with high hopes 🐉 💪
November 14, 2025
absolutely stunning artwork! I am eager to see where the story goes.
January 1, 2026
I just really loved the artwork! Will def want to draw some of the panels!
January 3, 2026
Immersive and beautiful art and storytelling
October 27, 2025
Full review in Booklist Magazine
This book is beautifully illustrated, and the world Himekawa has created is complex. This is a fully fantasy with several societies and a whole pantheon worked out. The flashes of Kamuna's future we get in this volume set up an epic quest that I hope spans many volumes. I look forward to seeing how Kamuna develops from the point he is in volume 1 to what seems like a confident, powerful warrior in his future. This is some of the best illustrative work from veteran Himekawa -- there are full panels of fantasy landscapes, detailed character designs with gorgeous clothing details, and breathtaking panel composition throughout. The entire story feels like an epic blockbuster movie with a large budget.
Read more graphic novel reviews at The Graphic Library.
This book is beautifully illustrated, and the world Himekawa has created is complex. This is a fully fantasy with several societies and a whole pantheon worked out. The flashes of Kamuna's future we get in this volume set up an epic quest that I hope spans many volumes. I look forward to seeing how Kamuna develops from the point he is in volume 1 to what seems like a confident, powerful warrior in his future. This is some of the best illustrative work from veteran Himekawa -- there are full panels of fantasy landscapes, detailed character designs with gorgeous clothing details, and breathtaking panel composition throughout. The entire story feels like an epic blockbuster movie with a large budget.
Read more graphic novel reviews at The Graphic Library.
January 5, 2026
What a great start for a series! I was interested in reading this after rereading the Legend of Zelda manga adaptations, last year. I loved the artwork in those books but struggled with the pacing of those books, so I wanted to see what these artists/writers could do with an original story, and I was not disappointed. The first 3 chapters in this volume are well paced, do a great job at introducing this fantasy world and the artwork is just stunning.
When I first started the story, I was very excited as I thought this was going to be a fantasy series where we follow a nonhuman character, which I thought was a great idea as that is surprisingly uncommon. But when the human character is introduced, I was genuinely surprised at the unique take on how his story begins. The rest of the volume shows his childhood and relationships to his family and community as well as expanding on the history, hierarchy's and magic systems of this world. I'm really intrigued to see where this series goes. It kind of gives similar vibes to Jim Henson's the Dark Crystal in my opinion.
I really only have one complaint about the story so far and it honestly may just be a translation thing. Every time they refer to the origins of their world, they mention a singular, capital-G, God. This is totally a me thing, but I kept leaning out every time they mentioned that. Like is it the Christian God? that would be very weird if so. The characters in this series may just be monotheistic which isn't a bad thing, it's just not what I'm used to in fantasy series. If there is a monotheistic God, often writers give it another name, like "the all-knowing one", or "the guardian." To have the characters just drop "yeah God created the universe" gave me a kind of Christian Ick. This minor thing didn't deter me from continuing to read though, especially because everything surrounding it was so strong. I just hope they either drop it completely or extrapolate on this in future volumes to clear up the differences.
When I first started the story, I was very excited as I thought this was going to be a fantasy series where we follow a nonhuman character, which I thought was a great idea as that is surprisingly uncommon. But when the human character is introduced, I was genuinely surprised at the unique take on how his story begins. The rest of the volume shows his childhood and relationships to his family and community as well as expanding on the history, hierarchy's and magic systems of this world. I'm really intrigued to see where this series goes. It kind of gives similar vibes to Jim Henson's the Dark Crystal in my opinion.
I really only have one complaint about the story so far and it honestly may just be a translation thing. Every time they refer to the origins of their world, they mention a singular, capital-G, God. This is totally a me thing, but I kept leaning out every time they mentioned that. Like is it the Christian God? that would be very weird if so. The characters in this series may just be monotheistic which isn't a bad thing, it's just not what I'm used to in fantasy series. If there is a monotheistic God, often writers give it another name, like "the all-knowing one", or "the guardian." To have the characters just drop "yeah God created the universe" gave me a kind of Christian Ick. This minor thing didn't deter me from continuing to read though, especially because everything surrounding it was so strong. I just hope they either drop it completely or extrapolate on this in future volumes to clear up the differences.
December 17, 2025
⭐ Manga | Fantasy
Thank you to VIZ Media LLC for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Kamudo, Vol. 1 introduces a rich fantasy world inhabited by demibeings, creatures that are half human and half beast. The title Kamudo, meaning the God Gate, sets the tone for a story steeped in identity.
This volume is fairly text-heavy, taking its time to establish the world and its lore. Most of the creatures lean far more beastly than human, which makes the central mystery stand out even more when a baby hatches from an egg who looks strikingly human. This child is named Kamuna the main character, a.k.a Child of God, and the story follows his life from infancy onward.
Despite being raised by deeply loving caretakers, Kamuna grows up feeling like an outcast. Unlike his siblings, who are full dragons, he struggles to understand why he was born so differently, and what that difference might mean. His desire to uncover the truth about his origins and purpose becomes the core of the story.
Since it's going to be a series, there is a lot of buildup, and towards the last few pages, action is about to happen, but none really takes place yet.
Overall, Kamudo, Vol. 1 is a fantasy manga focused on belonging, self-discovery, and destiny. While slower and more dialogue-driven, it lays a strong foundation for a mythological coming-of-age story that invites readers to reflect on identity and what it means to be “other.” A solid start for readers who enjoy lore-heavy fantasy.
Thank you to VIZ Media LLC for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Kamudo, Vol. 1 introduces a rich fantasy world inhabited by demibeings, creatures that are half human and half beast. The title Kamudo, meaning the God Gate, sets the tone for a story steeped in identity.
This volume is fairly text-heavy, taking its time to establish the world and its lore. Most of the creatures lean far more beastly than human, which makes the central mystery stand out even more when a baby hatches from an egg who looks strikingly human. This child is named Kamuna the main character, a.k.a Child of God, and the story follows his life from infancy onward.
Despite being raised by deeply loving caretakers, Kamuna grows up feeling like an outcast. Unlike his siblings, who are full dragons, he struggles to understand why he was born so differently, and what that difference might mean. His desire to uncover the truth about his origins and purpose becomes the core of the story.
Since it's going to be a series, there is a lot of buildup, and towards the last few pages, action is about to happen, but none really takes place yet.
Overall, Kamudo, Vol. 1 is a fantasy manga focused on belonging, self-discovery, and destiny. While slower and more dialogue-driven, it lays a strong foundation for a mythological coming-of-age story that invites readers to reflect on identity and what it means to be “other.” A solid start for readers who enjoy lore-heavy fantasy.
October 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and VIZ Media for this ARC!
I was drawn to this book because of the author, Akira Himekawa. Himekawa previously wrote The Legend of Zelda manga series which my daughter and I still regularly reread. When I first heard that Himekawa was releasing a new original story, I was very excited. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this one nearly as much as his prior work.
This story follows Kamuna, a young half-dragon that was born with a mostly human body. Kamuna struggles to fit in with his peers and his environment due to his differences. This book is filled with lore and world building, which can feel overwhelming at times. The art, while beautiful and highly detailed, did not really appeal to me. I feel like this series would be a better match for a more furry friendly crowd.
I was drawn to this book because of the author, Akira Himekawa. Himekawa previously wrote The Legend of Zelda manga series which my daughter and I still regularly reread. When I first heard that Himekawa was releasing a new original story, I was very excited. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this one nearly as much as his prior work.
This story follows Kamuna, a young half-dragon that was born with a mostly human body. Kamuna struggles to fit in with his peers and his environment due to his differences. This book is filled with lore and world building, which can feel overwhelming at times. The art, while beautiful and highly detailed, did not really appeal to me. I feel like this series would be a better match for a more furry friendly crowd.
October 17, 2025
I was so lucky to win a copy of this beautiful paperback through a Goodreads giveaway! As soon as it arrived, I couldn’t help myself — I sat down and started reading right away. 💫
Kamudo is such a gorgeous fantasy. The artwork was truely beautiful, and the story pulled me in before I even realised it. There’s just something magical about the world of Hinoaruchi… rich, mysterious, and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered. 🌿🌌
It’s such a strong start to the series, and those little hints of an ominous prophecy have me so curious (and a bit anxious!) to see what’s coming next. I can’t wait for Volume 2! ✨📖
Kamudo is such a gorgeous fantasy. The artwork was truely beautiful, and the story pulled me in before I even realised it. There’s just something magical about the world of Hinoaruchi… rich, mysterious, and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered. 🌿🌌
It’s such a strong start to the series, and those little hints of an ominous prophecy have me so curious (and a bit anxious!) to see what’s coming next. I can’t wait for Volume 2! ✨📖
October 29, 2025
Kamudo is a fantastically drawn graphic novel that tells the story of Kamuna, who is born to a dragon. His left hand is that of a dragon, and he has a tiny tail, but the rest of him is human. This is a place and time when various animals are sentient, walk upright, and rule in various areas on Earth. Humans are not yet among them.
This is volume 1 in the story and contains the first 3 chapters. It was a quick read and left me wanting to get the next book in the series, which sadly hasn’t been created yet.
I was given an advance reader’s copy (ARC) of the book courtesy of NetGalley and VIZ Media in exchange for an honest review. I’m hoping volume 2 will soon be available!
This is volume 1 in the story and contains the first 3 chapters. It was a quick read and left me wanting to get the next book in the series, which sadly hasn’t been created yet.
I was given an advance reader’s copy (ARC) of the book courtesy of NetGalley and VIZ Media in exchange for an honest review. I’m hoping volume 2 will soon be available!
November 16, 2025
I was initially drawn to this book when I saw the colorful and striking cover illustration, and was intrigued to learn it was the same artist from the Zelda manga. The art style reminds me of 80s/90s fantasy and animation, with creature designs that bring to mind The Dark Crystal. I really enjoyed the introduction into the world and characters, setting the atmosphere and building up the lore. It takes a good portion of the book before main character Kamuna is center-stage, but I found everyone else interesting enough to be invested in the story. Off to a promising start and I look forward to seeing how the series progresses!
January 3, 2026
This stunning first volume is really something every fantasy lover needs to read. It is a beautiful mix of Legend of Zelda, Studio Ghibli, and Dark Crystal.
I really loved the world building and the art... Don't even get me started! Some of the panels are just awe-inspiring.
It's funny that I mentioned Legend of Zelda as the author worked in the Twilight Princess manga (which now I need to read) and I just learned that after I finished the volume.
Now... Time to wait for volume 2...
I really loved the world building and the art... Don't even get me started! Some of the panels are just awe-inspiring.
It's funny that I mentioned Legend of Zelda as the author worked in the Twilight Princess manga (which now I need to read) and I just learned that after I finished the volume.
Now... Time to wait for volume 2...
October 30, 2025
Really enjoyed reading this one and honestly wasn't sure if I was originally going to like it.
The art is detailed, great world building, and setting up for the rest of the series. The big focus does seem to be that he is different than the other demi dragons or other creatures, but that is ok and some see his strength (trying not to give a spoiler).
The art is detailed, great world building, and setting up for the rest of the series. The big focus does seem to be that he is different than the other demi dragons or other creatures, but that is ok and some see his strength (trying not to give a spoiler).
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January 3, 2026
the fact that I have to wait til June 2026 for the next volume is criminal. this story is everything, it gives classic fantasy and reminds me of The Dark Crystal for reasons I don't even know, the art is fucking fantastic and mesmerizing and I am in love with this world and the characters.
and by fuckin jove if this isn't the most beautiful volume of manga I've ever fuckin seen jesus christ
and by fuckin jove if this isn't the most beautiful volume of manga I've ever fuckin seen jesus christ
December 27, 2025
Impressive art, deep cuts into Japanese mythology, and created by two women... yes to all of it! This first volume is very much setting the stage, and felt more like a 3.5 for me, but I'm absolutely down to see how this story evolves in the next volume.
August 28, 2025
A stunning work of fantasy; gorgeous illustrations and a captivating storyline make Kamudo a series not to be missed - especially if you enjoyed The Legend of Zelda manga.
September 26, 2025
This was fantastic. It reminded me of fantasy books that I read as a kid, that got me into the genre. I cannot wait to see where this series goes. Also, that ending?! I need to know what happens!
October 11, 2025
I love manga to read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
It’s a little heavily fantasy to me with dragons and Demi creatures but I think the premise is interesting and i could see myself continuing in the series.
November 17, 2025
Gorgeous art, of course, and a promising start. Just a beginning to the story, but I’m interested enough to keep an eye out for volume 2.
November 25, 2025
Gorgeous art, characters reminiscent of The Dark Crystal. Given its creators, it has a hint of Zelda DNA but clearly does enough of its own thing to keep the story intriguing.
November 27, 2025
Gorgeous art + cool character design of the various demi-beings (the dragons especially). This was all set up, so I'm curious where it goes.
January 4, 2026
Gotta be the most beautiful manga I’ve ever seen, and the story is fabulous too. Kind of Tarzan vibes but with dragons, and it’s AMAZING
January 15, 2026
3.5?
Stunning art work. The story has promise but felt a bit world building heavy. I am interested enough to pick up vol 2.
Stunning art work. The story has promise but felt a bit world building heavy. I am interested enough to pick up vol 2.
January 15, 2026
Cozy and refreshing new story, eager to keep reading this story and the world building is extremely promising
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews