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Black Jack Deluxe Edition 1
Not yet published
Expected 3 Nov 26- GenresManga
424 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication November 3, 2026
About the author
Osamu Tezuka
2,201 books1,343 followersDr. Osamu Tezuka (手塚治虫) was a Japanese manga artist, animator, producer and medical doctor, although he never practiced medicine. Born in Osaka Prefecture, he is best known as the creator of Astro Boy and Kimba the White Lion. He is often credited as the "Father of Anime", and is often considered the Japanese equivalent to Walt Disney, who served as a major inspiration during his formative years. His prolific output, pioneering techniques, and innovative redefinitions of genres earned him such titles as "the father of manga" and "the God of Manga."
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 27, 2026
[Thanks to Kodansha and NetGalley for an ARC of this manga in exchange for an unbiased review.]
Engaging with the classics is always a bit perilous because you often have to wrestle with the context in which they were originally published in addition to the quality of the work itself.
Plus, this is Osama Tezuka we’re talking about, who’s, shall we say, mildly influential in the annals of manga publishing. Oddly, this is my first engagement with his works, minus endless repeats of the 80’s Astroboy series as a kid.
While certainly not perfect, I can see why this was popular and I didn’t dislike reading it. I do think it was a wise idea to just jump around and pick out a selection of the best stories, given the minimal continuity. You likely won’t finish this and wonder who thought this was a good idea - its strengths are evident.
One thing that jumps out immediately is the art, which is very good, to the surprise of probably nobody reading. I was impressed by just how stretchy and wild the art could go at times, yet the scenes of surgeries are detailed and more realistic.
Of course, the visuals are the only realistic thing about the surgeries. While this quotes a lot of jargon that is not incorrect, the stuff that Black Jack pulls off in these stories is completely ridiculous. Full on limb transplants happen at least twice.
I also came to appreciate the Black Jack moniker, since most of these stories are morality tales that offer roughly the subtlety of being hit in the head with one. Nuanced, this is not.
But it’s not bad because of that - I appreciate how good Tezuka is at telling a fully formed story in a very lean amount of time. Plus, the blatant moralizing often means that this gets to have a bite that many manga lack.
Black Jack’s a fun character too, operating by his own code and charging exorbitant fees based on his whims (which is probably more shocking if you’re not familiar with any aspects of the American health care system). He also keeps lots of scalpels on standby for throwing around, as one does. He probably buys in bulk.
Any nods to continuity that do exist are helpfully reiterated just in case you forgot, which I appreciated because I’m old. Most revolve around Black Jack’s family situation; the story about his father’s new wife is quite good, in fact.
There are several other stories where people get their comeuppance for being jerks or some past sin comes back to haunt them, all the good stuff that makes for some fun melodrama. Occasionally it gets a little too ridiculous, but that’s part of its old-school charm.
On the downside, I don’t love the Pinoko character much. The idea of having an older person trapped in a child’s body is nothing new, but I didn’t love the execution much. It might have something to do with the weird speech affectation they give her too.
We might as well address the racism, since it exists, but I am glad they didn’t alter the original work any and just put a disclaimer on it instead. That’s the way to come at these things, rather than messing the original, even if some of the caricatures can be pretty yikes.
Overall, however, it’s a solid selection from a master of the genre. Even if the stories can be simple, they aren’t without depth. Some of them can be surprisingly melancholic; the one about the bear is well done and also brings in an environmentalist message that a number of stories have.
3.5 stars - an interesting little collection that may not be the best thing ever, but I can see why somebody felt that way back in the day. As a means to preserve these stories and package them for a modern audience, it’s top shelf. Not for everyone, but it was worthwhile read with strong presentation.
Engaging with the classics is always a bit perilous because you often have to wrestle with the context in which they were originally published in addition to the quality of the work itself.
Plus, this is Osama Tezuka we’re talking about, who’s, shall we say, mildly influential in the annals of manga publishing. Oddly, this is my first engagement with his works, minus endless repeats of the 80’s Astroboy series as a kid.
While certainly not perfect, I can see why this was popular and I didn’t dislike reading it. I do think it was a wise idea to just jump around and pick out a selection of the best stories, given the minimal continuity. You likely won’t finish this and wonder who thought this was a good idea - its strengths are evident.
One thing that jumps out immediately is the art, which is very good, to the surprise of probably nobody reading. I was impressed by just how stretchy and wild the art could go at times, yet the scenes of surgeries are detailed and more realistic.
Of course, the visuals are the only realistic thing about the surgeries. While this quotes a lot of jargon that is not incorrect, the stuff that Black Jack pulls off in these stories is completely ridiculous. Full on limb transplants happen at least twice.
I also came to appreciate the Black Jack moniker, since most of these stories are morality tales that offer roughly the subtlety of being hit in the head with one. Nuanced, this is not.
But it’s not bad because of that - I appreciate how good Tezuka is at telling a fully formed story in a very lean amount of time. Plus, the blatant moralizing often means that this gets to have a bite that many manga lack.
Black Jack’s a fun character too, operating by his own code and charging exorbitant fees based on his whims (which is probably more shocking if you’re not familiar with any aspects of the American health care system). He also keeps lots of scalpels on standby for throwing around, as one does. He probably buys in bulk.
Any nods to continuity that do exist are helpfully reiterated just in case you forgot, which I appreciated because I’m old. Most revolve around Black Jack’s family situation; the story about his father’s new wife is quite good, in fact.
There are several other stories where people get their comeuppance for being jerks or some past sin comes back to haunt them, all the good stuff that makes for some fun melodrama. Occasionally it gets a little too ridiculous, but that’s part of its old-school charm.
On the downside, I don’t love the Pinoko character much. The idea of having an older person trapped in a child’s body is nothing new, but I didn’t love the execution much. It might have something to do with the weird speech affectation they give her too.
We might as well address the racism, since it exists, but I am glad they didn’t alter the original work any and just put a disclaimer on it instead. That’s the way to come at these things, rather than messing the original, even if some of the caricatures can be pretty yikes.
Overall, however, it’s a solid selection from a master of the genre. Even if the stories can be simple, they aren’t without depth. Some of them can be surprisingly melancholic; the one about the bear is well done and also brings in an environmentalist message that a number of stories have.
3.5 stars - an interesting little collection that may not be the best thing ever, but I can see why somebody felt that way back in the day. As a means to preserve these stories and package them for a modern audience, it’s top shelf. Not for everyone, but it was worthwhile read with strong presentation.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Neither Black Jack nor his creator Osamu Tezuka need an introduction, but boy do you get one in this volume. Where the skill in the manga is what you’d expect, the amount of colored pages is suprising. Though its not just the manga here; there are cartoon scripts, sketches, and promotional pieces littered throughout this book. All in this is a good introduction for new readers with a few reservations, but a treasure for Black Jack aficionados.
The Introduction of the book, illustrates where Tezuka is in his career when he creates the character. Its a history lesson that puts the character into a new perspective. I won’t ruin it, here but it was not a high point.
When you open the book and you scroll down the table of contents, you might be a little put off by the chapter numbers. This is not a chronological order unlike the other volumes of Black Jack I’ve read. Though this selection works very well in highlighting key points and introduces you to the world of Black jack. From meeting his mentor, to getting a glimpse into his family life, there is a lot to learn from these selections. Though my only disappointment was that they did not go into the operation where he meets Pinoko. There are hints and readers might be able to put two and two together, its a glaring omission.
Of course its hard to talk about the chapters of manga, and not mention the color pages. There is a bit of an explanation at the end, of how these pages were reconstructed. Apparently these chapters were drawn to be in color. And the color is vivid and clear. I’ve only read Black Jack in the black and white, and this just added to the experience.
There is also a lot of extras in this book that makes it a real treasure for Black Jack fans. There are sketches and thumbnails for some of the chapters that help you get into the process Tezuka used for the series. There are several promotion pieces that are nice to see. Though my favourite was the astroboy cartoon script and artboard, that shows the first meeting of Astro and Jack, that was so much fun.
Black Jack Deluxe edition has a lot going for it. It highlights some of the important touching points of the series, and gives one an understanding of where Black Jack came from, and why he acts the way he does. For new readers, I think it does paint a good picture of him, but it also leaves a lot of unknowns. I suppose some of these questions will be filled out in the subsequent volumes. For long time fans though, there is so much to love about this collection. Just the archive selections alone are worth it, but add in the color pages and its a must have in any collection.
The Introduction of the book, illustrates where Tezuka is in his career when he creates the character. Its a history lesson that puts the character into a new perspective. I won’t ruin it, here but it was not a high point.
When you open the book and you scroll down the table of contents, you might be a little put off by the chapter numbers. This is not a chronological order unlike the other volumes of Black Jack I’ve read. Though this selection works very well in highlighting key points and introduces you to the world of Black jack. From meeting his mentor, to getting a glimpse into his family life, there is a lot to learn from these selections. Though my only disappointment was that they did not go into the operation where he meets Pinoko. There are hints and readers might be able to put two and two together, its a glaring omission.
Of course its hard to talk about the chapters of manga, and not mention the color pages. There is a bit of an explanation at the end, of how these pages were reconstructed. Apparently these chapters were drawn to be in color. And the color is vivid and clear. I’ve only read Black Jack in the black and white, and this just added to the experience.
There is also a lot of extras in this book that makes it a real treasure for Black Jack fans. There are sketches and thumbnails for some of the chapters that help you get into the process Tezuka used for the series. There are several promotion pieces that are nice to see. Though my favourite was the astroboy cartoon script and artboard, that shows the first meeting of Astro and Jack, that was so much fun.
Black Jack Deluxe edition has a lot going for it. It highlights some of the important touching points of the series, and gives one an understanding of where Black Jack came from, and why he acts the way he does. For new readers, I think it does paint a good picture of him, but it also leaves a lot of unknowns. I suppose some of these questions will be filled out in the subsequent volumes. For long time fans though, there is so much to love about this collection. Just the archive selections alone are worth it, but add in the color pages and its a must have in any collection.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been a fan of Black Jack for more than a decade now, first reading the couple of random volumes my library had and then spending precious dollars from my first few jobs to read e-book versions since many of the physical volumes were out of print and expensive. I loved what a Byronic hero the good doctor could be, learning of his tragic backstory and his dark quest for revenge. Much of the medical drama and ethical questions raised by each story still holds up well, and Pinoko is arguably one of Tezuka's more intriguing female characters, stuck in an un-aging body with a seemingly unreciprocated crush. The opening note does caution readers that some depictions of people may be dated, and as a Tezuka reader I can confirm how he depicts black people can unfortunately be stereotypical, and some characters that were once revolutionary can now seem passé.
So I would overall recommend the mythos to curious manga readers who can appreciate some action-packed medical melodrama, as long as they accept this work as a period piece. But what of this particular edition?
Well, as I already implied, physical copies have been out of print for a while so that alone gives this re-issuing the edge. But the colors inside are vibrant and beautiful, the lines crisp, the pictures properly from right to left rather than flipped for a Western audience, and there are a few bonus features like alterations made and other behind the scenes tidbits. Overall I would say the manga looks marvelous. Definitely worth a place in the collector's library.
Perhaps the main stumbling block I would give is that Black Jack is episodic by nature and the first few 'episodes' or stories aren't the ones explaining his lore. That is scattered across the various volumes, and while it worked well for me as someone picking up random volumes to read years ago, those who have been spoiled by serialized may find it aggravating. Why Black Jack is what he is takes sometime to pick up if you don't just web search it.
But if you clear that hurdle, I think you'll unlock what is perhaps my favorite Tezuka story. Sorry, Astro Boy, Buddha, and Letters to Adolf.
It also appears that this is a not a 1:1 reissuing of the previous first volume, but is focusing specifically on stories that Tezuka had done in color. Next two volumes will apparently be Tezuka's personally picked 'best of' which I am definitely intrigued by.
So I would overall recommend the mythos to curious manga readers who can appreciate some action-packed medical melodrama, as long as they accept this work as a period piece. But what of this particular edition?
Well, as I already implied, physical copies have been out of print for a while so that alone gives this re-issuing the edge. But the colors inside are vibrant and beautiful, the lines crisp, the pictures properly from right to left rather than flipped for a Western audience, and there are a few bonus features like alterations made and other behind the scenes tidbits. Overall I would say the manga looks marvelous. Definitely worth a place in the collector's library.
Perhaps the main stumbling block I would give is that Black Jack is episodic by nature and the first few 'episodes' or stories aren't the ones explaining his lore. That is scattered across the various volumes, and while it worked well for me as someone picking up random volumes to read years ago, those who have been spoiled by serialized may find it aggravating. Why Black Jack is what he is takes sometime to pick up if you don't just web search it.
But if you clear that hurdle, I think you'll unlock what is perhaps my favorite Tezuka story. Sorry, Astro Boy, Buddha, and Letters to Adolf.
It also appears that this is a not a 1:1 reissuing of the previous first volume, but is focusing specifically on stories that Tezuka had done in color. Next two volumes will apparently be Tezuka's personally picked 'best of' which I am definitely intrigued by.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hopefully the name Osamu Tezuka needs no introduction, however, just in case anyone doesn't know who he is he has been called "The Father of Manga". Manga and in turn anime would simply not exist in the form it does today. Hell, it may not exist at all. I will whole heartedly admit to never reading Black Jack till now though, but as the saying goes better late than never!
The story follows Black Jack, a man who vows to become the greatest surgeon ever after being saved by a doctor in his youth. He never actually gets his license though so he travels the world on the whims of patients who can afford to pay his ridiculous fees in order for him to cure them. I'll say right now in terms of accuracy on the medical side of things I have no idea if any of this is accurate and really I don't think it even matters because Black Jack is a character written in 1973 who is far more progressive than characters I've read that were created in the last 10 years. I'm not going to give much away here but in terms of race relations, conservation efforts, etc. etc. this could have been published last week. Which of course made it an enjoyable read. Add in Tekuza's signature art style, quirky side characters, fourth wall breaking, and you've got a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Highly recommend this although I mean I'd recommend anything Tekuza created for the most part so whether you read this or another one of his stories you'll be in good hands!
As always thanks to Kodansha and NetGalley for the eArc!
The story follows Black Jack, a man who vows to become the greatest surgeon ever after being saved by a doctor in his youth. He never actually gets his license though so he travels the world on the whims of patients who can afford to pay his ridiculous fees in order for him to cure them. I'll say right now in terms of accuracy on the medical side of things I have no idea if any of this is accurate and really I don't think it even matters because Black Jack is a character written in 1973 who is far more progressive than characters I've read that were created in the last 10 years. I'm not going to give much away here but in terms of race relations, conservation efforts, etc. etc. this could have been published last week. Which of course made it an enjoyable read. Add in Tekuza's signature art style, quirky side characters, fourth wall breaking, and you've got a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Highly recommend this although I mean I'd recommend anything Tekuza created for the most part so whether you read this or another one of his stories you'll be in good hands!
As always thanks to Kodansha and NetGalley for the eArc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this deluxe edition and am looking forward to continuing the series.
The episodic format worked well for me, with each chapter presenting a new medical case that showcased Black Jack’s extraordinary skill as an unlicensed surgeon. While he initially appears cold and detached, it quickly becomes clear that he has a strong personal moral code. I particularly enjoyed how many of the stories explored justice, compassion, and the consequences of people’s actions, making each case feel satisfying in its own way.
The artwork and storytelling held my attention throughout, and I can certainly see why this series has become such a classic. I found myself eager to keep reading and will definitely be picking up the next volume. I also plan to add the physical edition to my collection.
That said, it is worth remembering that this manga was originally published in the 1970s. Some of the language, attitudes, and character dynamics feel dated by today’s standards, and there were a few elements that I think modern readers may find uncomfortable. While those aspects didn’t stop me from enjoying the overall story, I do think it’s helpful to approach the series with the understanding that it reflects the era in which it was written.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining and memorable collection of stories with an intriguing protagonist, and I’m excited to see where the series goes next.
The episodic format worked well for me, with each chapter presenting a new medical case that showcased Black Jack’s extraordinary skill as an unlicensed surgeon. While he initially appears cold and detached, it quickly becomes clear that he has a strong personal moral code. I particularly enjoyed how many of the stories explored justice, compassion, and the consequences of people’s actions, making each case feel satisfying in its own way.
The artwork and storytelling held my attention throughout, and I can certainly see why this series has become such a classic. I found myself eager to keep reading and will definitely be picking up the next volume. I also plan to add the physical edition to my collection.
That said, it is worth remembering that this manga was originally published in the 1970s. Some of the language, attitudes, and character dynamics feel dated by today’s standards, and there were a few elements that I think modern readers may find uncomfortable. While those aspects didn’t stop me from enjoying the overall story, I do think it’s helpful to approach the series with the understanding that it reflects the era in which it was written.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining and memorable collection of stories with an intriguing protagonist, and I’m excited to see where the series goes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I think this is a really worthwhile read on the basis of Black Jack (and the rest of Osamu Tezuka's works, especially Astro Boy) being so foundational to comic history. I've not read Black Jack before (nor watched any adaptations), but this compilation managed to pick comics that helped the reader quickly pick up on the fundamentals of Black Jack's lore without feeling too lost, all the while being fast-paced and entertaining. The main exception to this is the character of Pinoko, who premise is confusing when she's first introduced but later makes more sense when you learn her backstory (her behaviour is also... really odd, but it's refreshing for the genre that Black Jack is not weird about it). Also, as each story is individual and largely unconnected, there's a lot of twists, including characters suddenly dying for dramatic effect, which can read as melodramatic.
It's also a given that a comic from the 70s/80s is going to have some dated elements (terminology, tropes, etc), and the reader is warned of this in the introduction. I appreciate the choice of the editors preserving the original work and acknowledging its history. Once again, I think the appeal of this volume for me is just reading something that's left a huge impact in the world of comics.
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for the ARC.
It's also a given that a comic from the 70s/80s is going to have some dated elements (terminology, tropes, etc), and the reader is warned of this in the introduction. I appreciate the choice of the editors preserving the original work and acknowledging its history. Once again, I think the appeal of this volume for me is just reading something that's left a huge impact in the world of comics.
Thank you to Kodansha Comics and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Black Jack is an unlicensed doctor with unparalleled medical skin. Desperate people still seek him out regardless of the fact. Although many view him as mercenary because of his outrageous fees, that judgement is far from the truth. Black Jack has his reasons for charging so much.
I have heard of Black Jack – what die-hard anime fan hasn’t? However, I never got around to watching the anime (the movie or OVAs). And finding the mangas to read is difficult, unless you have money to burn. So, when I saw the Deluxe edition on Netgalley, I decided to see for myself what all the hype was about.
The art style is old school. I would say it is pretty standard for the era in which it was first drawn. It did take me a while to grow accustomed to it.
The story section includes only selected chapters, which do not follow a structured plot. It instead offers fragments of Black Jack’s exploits. One chapter explains how BJ got his scarred face and why its upper portion is a different color. Another one reveals what inspired him to become a doctor. Several of the chapters end with dark twists.
All-in-all, I can see why this mangaka is so popular. And how his work helped shape manga into what it is today. The art style may not be to my tastes, that did not stop me from appreciating them.
I have heard of Black Jack – what die-hard anime fan hasn’t? However, I never got around to watching the anime (the movie or OVAs). And finding the mangas to read is difficult, unless you have money to burn. So, when I saw the Deluxe edition on Netgalley, I decided to see for myself what all the hype was about.
The art style is old school. I would say it is pretty standard for the era in which it was first drawn. It did take me a while to grow accustomed to it.
The story section includes only selected chapters, which do not follow a structured plot. It instead offers fragments of Black Jack’s exploits. One chapter explains how BJ got his scarred face and why its upper portion is a different color. Another one reveals what inspired him to become a doctor. Several of the chapters end with dark twists.
All-in-all, I can see why this mangaka is so popular. And how his work helped shape manga into what it is today. The art style may not be to my tastes, that did not stop me from appreciating them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Read more graphic novel reviews at The Graphic Library.
Black Jack is a brilliant surgeon, but he’s often a cold, calculating man. He charges exorbitant fees for his life-saving, impossible surgeries, and he practices medicine largely outside the limits of licenses and hospitals. Occasionally, Black Jack will waive his fees when someone’s life is on the line, particularly if that life is an animal or if he can impact swaths of land or a habitat. Not one to stick around for accolades or applause, this mysterious man-in-black is off to make the next buck as soon as the last suture is thrown. This series is regarded as one of Tezuka’s masterpieces, and was often published with edits and tweaks to change uncouth figures or fit publication needs. In this deluxe edition, original magazine color pages have been restored, and original illustrations have been preserved. Edited pages have also been included for readers to compare and draw their own conclusions about intentions. Additional previously unpublished manuscripts are also included, which will delight collectors. The chapters in this first volume are not sequential, but rather were chosen to give an introduction to Black Jack’s character and origin story. This would be a worthy volume for large manga libraries, especially libraries and collections that enjoy the works of Osamu Tezuka and have been awaiting a reprint of this hard-to-find series.
This review was made possible with a digital reader copy from the publisher through Net Galley.
Sara's Rating: 8/10
Suitability Level: Grades 10-12
Black Jack is a brilliant surgeon, but he’s often a cold, calculating man. He charges exorbitant fees for his life-saving, impossible surgeries, and he practices medicine largely outside the limits of licenses and hospitals. Occasionally, Black Jack will waive his fees when someone’s life is on the line, particularly if that life is an animal or if he can impact swaths of land or a habitat. Not one to stick around for accolades or applause, this mysterious man-in-black is off to make the next buck as soon as the last suture is thrown. This series is regarded as one of Tezuka’s masterpieces, and was often published with edits and tweaks to change uncouth figures or fit publication needs. In this deluxe edition, original magazine color pages have been restored, and original illustrations have been preserved. Edited pages have also been included for readers to compare and draw their own conclusions about intentions. Additional previously unpublished manuscripts are also included, which will delight collectors. The chapters in this first volume are not sequential, but rather were chosen to give an introduction to Black Jack’s character and origin story. This would be a worthy volume for large manga libraries, especially libraries and collections that enjoy the works of Osamu Tezuka and have been awaiting a reprint of this hard-to-find series.
This review was made possible with a digital reader copy from the publisher through Net Galley.
Sara's Rating: 8/10
Suitability Level: Grades 10-12
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha for a copy of the eARC!
This was such a good stroll down memory lane. My parents actually purchased me the full set of Black Jack comics in Taiwan. This book is a Deluxe version with 17 different stories selected from the whole series. I really enjoyed re-reading some of this stories and will probably re-read the series again when I have time.
Black Jack, an unlicensed doctor, is a genius surgeon. I love how he charges the wealthy a high price, but tends to help the poor (or animals) for free. I know a lot of the medical procedures aren't always very realistic (i.e. easily getting rid of cancer by removing tumors or putting a bunch organs into a new synthetic body). However, each chapter will leave you with a life lesson, which is why I highly recommend this series.
The intended audience is probably older teens and adults as there are more mature themes. I know I read it growing up, as my parents were probably like this is just a comic. However, there are themes like taking one's own life, adultery, and murders. If you plan to let your younger-aged children read this, please make sure you read it together so you can have a nice discussion afterwards.
This was such a good stroll down memory lane. My parents actually purchased me the full set of Black Jack comics in Taiwan. This book is a Deluxe version with 17 different stories selected from the whole series. I really enjoyed re-reading some of this stories and will probably re-read the series again when I have time.
Black Jack, an unlicensed doctor, is a genius surgeon. I love how he charges the wealthy a high price, but tends to help the poor (or animals) for free. I know a lot of the medical procedures aren't always very realistic (i.e. easily getting rid of cancer by removing tumors or putting a bunch organs into a new synthetic body). However, each chapter will leave you with a life lesson, which is why I highly recommend this series.
The intended audience is probably older teens and adults as there are more mature themes. I know I read it growing up, as my parents were probably like this is just a comic. However, there are themes like taking one's own life, adultery, and murders. If you plan to let your younger-aged children read this, please make sure you read it together so you can have a nice discussion afterwards.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Osamu Tezuka's Black Jack, like basically all of his other works, is a classic. The characters are interesting, the stories are compelling, and the medical miracles that Black Jack is able to pull of are truly a sight to behold. Each story has its own social/political/etc. commentary that's it's trying to tell, with some being subtler than others.
Black Jack originally started publishing in the 70's and you can definitely feel that in a some of the writing. It's very much of its time - in some less than savory ways at points - but there is still a lot of fun to be had. It feels like a rollercoaster ride sometimes, with how zany and over-the-top some of the stories get only to then smack you with some serious message, medical emergency, or story-beat. It's also got stories that fit into basically every genre, which is great.
If you go into this knowing and accepting that it's an old manga with some very old ways of viewing the world, I think you'll have a good time with it. Honestly, it's worth giving a try simply because of how important it is within the medium.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC!
Black Jack originally started publishing in the 70's and you can definitely feel that in a some of the writing. It's very much of its time - in some less than savory ways at points - but there is still a lot of fun to be had. It feels like a rollercoaster ride sometimes, with how zany and over-the-top some of the stories get only to then smack you with some serious message, medical emergency, or story-beat. It's also got stories that fit into basically every genre, which is great.
If you go into this knowing and accepting that it's an old manga with some very old ways of viewing the world, I think you'll have a good time with it. Honestly, it's worth giving a try simply because of how important it is within the medium.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Again, thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha for providing me with an ARC!
Black Jack is a very famous series about an unlicensed doctor who performs surgeries illegally—but his skills are so incredible that people still seek him out.
Reading this made me feel so nostalgic. I watched the anime years ago, and I still vividly remember the sushi master episode. It's been more than 10 years, but I still remember how amazed I was while watching it. (And Black Jack is so handsome!!!)
I also love how Black Jack and Pinoko's relationship is portrayed. Pinoko is a young girl who is in love with Black Jack, but the good thing is that Black Jack never sees her that way. Instead, he always treats her like a daughter. I've seen enough anime that turn father-daughter relationships into romance, and honestly... that's just ew. Sorry.
I also love how the story explores Black Jack's personality and his relationships with his parents, his savior, and his best friend. The best part is that he's morally gray, and he loves animals more than humans.
Give me Book 2—I will absolutely eat it up!
Black Jack is a very famous series about an unlicensed doctor who performs surgeries illegally—but his skills are so incredible that people still seek him out.
Reading this made me feel so nostalgic. I watched the anime years ago, and I still vividly remember the sushi master episode. It's been more than 10 years, but I still remember how amazed I was while watching it. (And Black Jack is so handsome!!!)
I also love how Black Jack and Pinoko's relationship is portrayed. Pinoko is a young girl who is in love with Black Jack, but the good thing is that Black Jack never sees her that way. Instead, he always treats her like a daughter. I've seen enough anime that turn father-daughter relationships into romance, and honestly... that's just ew. Sorry.
I also love how the story explores Black Jack's personality and his relationships with his parents, his savior, and his best friend. The best part is that he's morally gray, and he loves animals more than humans.
Give me Book 2—I will absolutely eat it up!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Kodansha for the free access to a Digital Copy of this manga in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll admit I already had this book on preorder so I’ll be getting it physical when it releases. But as a massive Black Jack fan I wanted to see what chapters were picked for this first deluxe edition.
I’d say this is a pretty decent entry into the world of Black Jack and what he’s all about. This book had many chapters picked out that feature specifically his backstory in them.
I would just say that I do feel this volume may be confusing for people who aren’t aware very well of Pinoko (Black Jack’s little assistant that’s sort of a daughter figure) and her specific situation. The chapter that was included that was more about her doesn’t go to into her past but it kinda speed runs the readers her general origin story which I hope is enough for new readers. But for me and any fan of the series prior this will be no issues at all I’m sure.
I’m very excited for the official release! It was great to relive some of the Black Jack chapters I know and loved I’d say this is a must for fans of Black Jack.
I’ll admit I already had this book on preorder so I’ll be getting it physical when it releases. But as a massive Black Jack fan I wanted to see what chapters were picked for this first deluxe edition.
I’d say this is a pretty decent entry into the world of Black Jack and what he’s all about. This book had many chapters picked out that feature specifically his backstory in them.
I would just say that I do feel this volume may be confusing for people who aren’t aware very well of Pinoko (Black Jack’s little assistant that’s sort of a daughter figure) and her specific situation. The chapter that was included that was more about her doesn’t go to into her past but it kinda speed runs the readers her general origin story which I hope is enough for new readers. But for me and any fan of the series prior this will be no issues at all I’m sure.
I’m very excited for the official release! It was great to relive some of the Black Jack chapters I know and loved I’d say this is a must for fans of Black Jack.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Osamu Tezuka’s Blackjack: Volume One is as relentless as it is thrilling to read. Those who pick up this volume will find they can hardly find a good place to set it down. Tezuka’s knowledge as a former student of medicine permeates every page, every frame and gives the reader many a gripping story that peels back at both the selfish and selfless aspects of the human spirit. I would encourage everyone to read the note at the beginning as it provides illuminating context to how Blackjack was written. It also addresses some of the language and depictions I questioned as I read along.
This whole manga does not shrink back from the viscera of Black Jack’s medical practice. But I feel as though it is done authentically which propels the narrative of each story forward for all 421 pages. And what’s more, there is a wealth of extras included in between each chapter that I am sure both new and long-time fans will enjoy.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kodansha USA for the ARC of this book.
This whole manga does not shrink back from the viscera of Black Jack’s medical practice. But I feel as though it is done authentically which propels the narrative of each story forward for all 421 pages. And what’s more, there is a wealth of extras included in between each chapter that I am sure both new and long-time fans will enjoy.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kodansha USA for the ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was given this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I am so very excited to see that Black Jack is getting a deluxe rerelease and getting the attention it deserves. I know everyone loves Astroboy the best, but I truly believe Black Jack is Tezuka's magnum opus. It is far ahead of it's time and the stories are still relevant today despite being 50+ years old. While this doesn't follow release order and it is hand picked stories, it still works because the plot of Black Jack is largely not connected between stories. I love that this edition includes color pages like how they were originally printed in the magazine it was originally published in, I am unsure if the reprints from the 2010s included the color pages, but it is a very nice touch. I wish the cover was a little more dynamic, but overall I love this deluxe edition and will be purchasing a copy upon release. I love that Kodansha is bringing attention to older manga (like their previous release of Ashita no Joe deluxe edition releases) and I'm looking forward to what other licenses they get.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First, thank you so much to NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this in exchange for my honest feedback.
I had heard of Black Jack before reading this, but had never watched the anime or read any other manga chapters. Now that I have, I can see why this is such a classic; and why Osamu Tezuka is so highly rated. This was such a joy to read. First of all, the art style was so unique and not something I had really seen before. Given the historical context and when these chapters were originally published, the art really stood out. Even though only a select few chapters were provided in this edition, they kept me hooked and entertained. It was easy enough to follow the overall plot line of Black Jack with so few chapters, and I very much look forward to reading more of the manga. Prior to this, I was in a bit of a manga slump, and this volume has certainly gotten me eager to getting back into more manga series.
I had heard of Black Jack before reading this, but had never watched the anime or read any other manga chapters. Now that I have, I can see why this is such a classic; and why Osamu Tezuka is so highly rated. This was such a joy to read. First of all, the art style was so unique and not something I had really seen before. Given the historical context and when these chapters were originally published, the art really stood out. Even though only a select few chapters were provided in this edition, they kept me hooked and entertained. It was easy enough to follow the overall plot line of Black Jack with so few chapters, and I very much look forward to reading more of the manga. Prior to this, I was in a bit of a manga slump, and this volume has certainly gotten me eager to getting back into more manga series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's 1970's Japan. Black Jack a.k.a. Kuro'o is an unlicensed doctor due to operating on patients that are technically difficult.
He goes around Japan with his sidekick Pinoko and somehow ends up operating on rich people, kids and even animals. He charges the rich 10 million yen or higher, and mostly operates kids for free.
He finds himself in difficult situations and does some really technically difficult operations that no other doctor will do of that time... and Black Jack overcomes them somehow.
This a great edition of Black Jack. It has some old articles and drawings from Osamu Tezuka, as well as a story at the end of Astro Boy meets Black Jack!
If you want to be a doctor or a fan of the J-Drama Dr X, then this manga will fascinate you!
Thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for this copy! Truly fascinating.
He goes around Japan with his sidekick Pinoko and somehow ends up operating on rich people, kids and even animals. He charges the rich 10 million yen or higher, and mostly operates kids for free.
He finds himself in difficult situations and does some really technically difficult operations that no other doctor will do of that time... and Black Jack overcomes them somehow.
This a great edition of Black Jack. It has some old articles and drawings from Osamu Tezuka, as well as a story at the end of Astro Boy meets Black Jack!
If you want to be a doctor or a fan of the J-Drama Dr X, then this manga will fascinate you!
Thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for this copy! Truly fascinating.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5 rounded up.
I like reading older mangas because it's really neat to see where it all started and what inspired what media. After reading this, I can see many inspirations in, not just manga, but in Western media as well. The reason I am giving this a lower rating is because the vignette style doesn't really work for me, and also, this is a product of its time. The beginning of the manga states they and why they chose not to change anything, which I commend them. However, I don't want to read some of the problematic things in this manga. I won't be continuing, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to read a classic manga.
I like reading older mangas because it's really neat to see where it all started and what inspired what media. After reading this, I can see many inspirations in, not just manga, but in Western media as well. The reason I am giving this a lower rating is because the vignette style doesn't really work for me, and also, this is a product of its time. The beginning of the manga states they and why they chose not to change anything, which I commend them. However, I don't want to read some of the problematic things in this manga. I won't be continuing, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to read a classic manga.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Black Jack is unique, old type of manga in terms or art and story telling, with lots of character and drama. Mercenary "doctor" who is always ready to help, in the most unique and peculiar cases. This particular volume has panels in color and it makes the grotesque and brutal shine. Hats off to Ozamu Tezuka for this brilliant story.
Each chapter brings a new medical case, bizarre and unique. For Jack there is no case he cannot finish. The art and style might feel outdated, old, but the best word to describe it is "classic". I am new to Ozamu Tezuka's work and I am so glad Black Jack was the first work of his I read.
Black Jack is unique, old type of manga in terms or art and story telling, with lots of character and drama. Mercenary "doctor" who is always ready to help, in the most unique and peculiar cases. This particular volume has panels in color and it makes the grotesque and brutal shine. Hats off to Ozamu Tezuka for this brilliant story.
Each chapter brings a new medical case, bizarre and unique. For Jack there is no case he cannot finish. The art and style might feel outdated, old, but the best word to describe it is "classic". I am new to Ozamu Tezuka's work and I am so glad Black Jack was the first work of his I read.
Did Not Finish
July 15, 2026I think this boils down to it simply just not for me. I made it almost halfway through to realize I was forcing myself to keep going, I just didn't care at all. I did not enjoy the art or the characters and a lot of things were very dated and don't hold up well now.(theres even a disclaimer about this in the front) Im glad its being published since I know its a well loved series but, again, its simply not for me.
Thank you Kodansha for the arc via net galley
Thank you Kodansha for the arc via net galley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley for the review copy.
Classic manga from one of the early masters of the craft.
Part morality tales meets bizarre medical cases. I fell in love with the anime years ago before I learned about the original work. If you like a good plot twist and tend to binge medical shows then give Black Jack a chance. It's the only anime/manga my wife enjoyed. BTW she's a nurse.
Classic manga from one of the early masters of the craft.
Part morality tales meets bizarre medical cases. I fell in love with the anime years ago before I learned about the original work. If you like a good plot twist and tend to binge medical shows then give Black Jack a chance. It's the only anime/manga my wife enjoyed. BTW she's a nurse.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
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