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Inuyasha VizBig Edition #2
Inuyasha. VizBig Edition, Volume 2: New Allies, New Enemies
In both the past and the present, Kagome and Inuyasha face new enemies while on their search for the shards of the Shikon Jewel. As they grow closer, Kagome learns that Inuyasha harbors a carefully guarded secret that makes him vulnerable with the rising of the new moon. Then an evil ogress plans to resurrect Kikyo. If Kikyo returns, will she seek vengeance against Inuyasha? And will Inuyasha be forced to choose between Kikyo and Kagome?
568 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2020
60 people are currently reading
614 people want to read
About the author
Rumiko Takahashi
1,581 books2,132 followersRumiko Takahashi (高橋留美子) was born in Niigata, Japan. She is not only one of the richest women in Japan but also one of the top paid manga artists. She is also the most successful female comic artist in history. She has been writing manga non-stop for 31 years.
Rumiko Takahashi is one of the wealthiest women in Japan. The manga she creates (and its anime adaptations) are very popular in the United States and Europe where they have been released as both manga and anime in English translation. Her works are relatively famous worldwide, and many of her series were some of the forerunners of early English language manga to be released in the nineties. Takahashi is also the best selling female comics artist in history; well over 100 million copies of her various works have been sold.
Though she was said to occasionally doodle in the margins of her papers while attending Niigata Chūō High School, Takahashi's interest in manga did not come until later. During her college years, she enrolled in Gekiga Sonjuku, a manga school founded by Kazuo Koike, mangaka of Crying Freeman and Lone Wolf and Cub. Under his guidance Rumiko Takahashi began to publish her first doujinshi creations in 1975, such as Bye-Bye Road and Star of Futile Dust. Kozue Koike often urged his students to create well-thought out, interesting characters, and this influence would greatly impact Rumiko Takahashi's works throughout her career.
Career and major works:
Takahashi's professional career began in 1978. Her first published story was Those Selfish Aliens, a comedic science fiction story. During the same year, she published Time Warp Trouble, Shake Your Buddha, and the Golden Gods of Poverty in Shōnen Sunday, which would remain the home to most of her major works for the next twenty years. Later that year, Rumiko attempted her first full-length series, Urusei Yatsura. Though it had a rocky start due to publishing difficulties, Urusei Yatsura would become one of the most beloved anime and manga comedies in Japan.
In 1980, Rumiko Takahashi found her niche and began to publish with regularity. At this time she started her second major series, Maison Ikkoku, in Big Comic Spirits. Written for an older audience, Maison Ikkoku is often considered to be one of the all-time best romance manga. Takahashi managed to work on Maison Ikkoku on and off simultaneously with Urusei Yatsura. She concluded both series in 1987, with Urusei Yatsura ending at 34 volumes, and Maison Ikkoku being 15.
During the 1980s, Takahashi became a prolific writer of short story manga, which is surprising considering the massive lengths of most of her works. Her stories The Laughing Target, Maris the Chojo, and Fire Tripper all were adapted into original video animations (OVAs). In 1984, after the end of Urusei Yatsura and Maison Ikkoku, Takahashi took a different approach to storytelling and began the dark, macabre Mermaid Saga. This series of short segments was published sporadically until 1994, with the final story being Mermaid's Mask. Many fans contend that this work remains unfinished by Takahashi, since the final story does not end on a conclusive note.
Another short work left untouched is One-Pound Gospel, which, like Mermaid Saga, was published erratically. The last story to be drawn was published in 2001, however just recently she wrote one final chapter concluding the series
Later in 1987, Takahashi began her third major series, Ranma ½. Following the late 80s and early 90s trend of shōnen martial arts manga, Ranma ½ features a gender-bending twist. The series continued for nearly a decade until 1996, when it ended at 38 volumes. Ranma ½ is one of Rumiko Takahashi's most popular series with the Western world.
During the later half of the 1990s, Rumiko Takahashi continued with short stories and her installments of Mermaid Saga and One-Pound Gospel until beginning her fourth major work, InuYasha. While Ran
Rumiko Takahashi is one of the wealthiest women in Japan. The manga she creates (and its anime adaptations) are very popular in the United States and Europe where they have been released as both manga and anime in English translation. Her works are relatively famous worldwide, and many of her series were some of the forerunners of early English language manga to be released in the nineties. Takahashi is also the best selling female comics artist in history; well over 100 million copies of her various works have been sold.
Though she was said to occasionally doodle in the margins of her papers while attending Niigata Chūō High School, Takahashi's interest in manga did not come until later. During her college years, she enrolled in Gekiga Sonjuku, a manga school founded by Kazuo Koike, mangaka of Crying Freeman and Lone Wolf and Cub. Under his guidance Rumiko Takahashi began to publish her first doujinshi creations in 1975, such as Bye-Bye Road and Star of Futile Dust. Kozue Koike often urged his students to create well-thought out, interesting characters, and this influence would greatly impact Rumiko Takahashi's works throughout her career.
Career and major works:
Takahashi's professional career began in 1978. Her first published story was Those Selfish Aliens, a comedic science fiction story. During the same year, she published Time Warp Trouble, Shake Your Buddha, and the Golden Gods of Poverty in Shōnen Sunday, which would remain the home to most of her major works for the next twenty years. Later that year, Rumiko attempted her first full-length series, Urusei Yatsura. Though it had a rocky start due to publishing difficulties, Urusei Yatsura would become one of the most beloved anime and manga comedies in Japan.
In 1980, Rumiko Takahashi found her niche and began to publish with regularity. At this time she started her second major series, Maison Ikkoku, in Big Comic Spirits. Written for an older audience, Maison Ikkoku is often considered to be one of the all-time best romance manga. Takahashi managed to work on Maison Ikkoku on and off simultaneously with Urusei Yatsura. She concluded both series in 1987, with Urusei Yatsura ending at 34 volumes, and Maison Ikkoku being 15.
During the 1980s, Takahashi became a prolific writer of short story manga, which is surprising considering the massive lengths of most of her works. Her stories The Laughing Target, Maris the Chojo, and Fire Tripper all were adapted into original video animations (OVAs). In 1984, after the end of Urusei Yatsura and Maison Ikkoku, Takahashi took a different approach to storytelling and began the dark, macabre Mermaid Saga. This series of short segments was published sporadically until 1994, with the final story being Mermaid's Mask. Many fans contend that this work remains unfinished by Takahashi, since the final story does not end on a conclusive note.
Another short work left untouched is One-Pound Gospel, which, like Mermaid Saga, was published erratically. The last story to be drawn was published in 2001, however just recently she wrote one final chapter concluding the series
Later in 1987, Takahashi began her third major series, Ranma ½. Following the late 80s and early 90s trend of shōnen martial arts manga, Ranma ½ features a gender-bending twist. The series continued for nearly a decade until 1996, when it ended at 38 volumes. Ranma ½ is one of Rumiko Takahashi's most popular series with the Western world.
During the later half of the 1990s, Rumiko Takahashi continued with short stories and her installments of Mermaid Saga and One-Pound Gospel until beginning her fourth major work, InuYasha. While Ran
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 1, 2018
Gosh Inuyasha is so much meaner in the manga lol.
December 7, 2016
Characters - 5/5
Great Intro to new characters
Great character development for our main group
Writing - 5/5
Great humor
Well written dialogue
Plot - 5/5
Really fast paced and well balanced
Great Intro to new characters
Great character development for our main group
Writing - 5/5
Great humor
Well written dialogue
Plot - 5/5
Really fast paced and well balanced
February 4, 2022
This is a pretty eventful (3-in-1) volume of InuYasha, even compared to the first one. The arc that introduces Shippo concludes, and Miroku is introduced in v. 6.
In the middle of the volume is my absolute favorite part of the early story: where the betrayal that imprisoned InuYasha comes back to haunt him in the realest way it possibly could. I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing this plot thread develop further. Far more than I care about either Naraku (who I barely remember from when I first read this material in the '90s) or Sesshomaru.
We're given hints that Kagome is much more than she seems--was her ability to latent in her this whole time, or is it a result of the events in v. 5? I like her a lot. She doesn't take any nonsense from InuYasha, and she takes action when she can.
Admittedly, that doesn't happen often. She needs to have a bow for that, and she tends to lose her bow in places where it can't easily be replaced. So she's relegated to the sidelines along with Shippo, being imperiled by demons or gasping in amazement as InuYasha takes the spotlight.
I like Shippo, too--he's super cute, and his magic is imaginative, but also not powerful enough to turn the tide of battle. His interactions with InuYasha are a lot like those between siblings. (also true of Kagome, if you ignore the underlying romance.)
This is Takahashi at the height of her powers. She's in full control of her material and, in my experience, hasn't ever resorted to underplanned story arcs (hello, Hiro Mashima). I can take or leave the monster-of-the week stuff, but there is no doubt that those parts are excellently done, with lots of dynamic motion and cool page layouts where the main participant in the combat "pops out" from the page. High stakes battle and drama is nicely balanced out with slapstick, bickering, and silly facial expressions. If you are at all interested in shonen manga, I highly recommend this series.
In the middle of the volume is my absolute favorite part of the early story: where the betrayal that imprisoned InuYasha comes back to haunt him in the realest way it possibly could. I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing this plot thread develop further. Far more than I care about either Naraku (who I barely remember from when I first read this material in the '90s) or Sesshomaru.
We're given hints that Kagome is much more than she seems--was her ability to latent in her this whole time, or is it a result of the events in v. 5? I like her a lot. She doesn't take any nonsense from InuYasha, and she takes action when she can.
Admittedly, that doesn't happen often. She needs to have a bow for that, and she tends to lose her bow in places where it can't easily be replaced. So she's relegated to the sidelines along with Shippo, being imperiled by demons or gasping in amazement as InuYasha takes the spotlight.
I like Shippo, too--he's super cute, and his magic is imaginative, but also not powerful enough to turn the tide of battle. His interactions with InuYasha are a lot like those between siblings. (also true of Kagome, if you ignore the underlying romance.)
This is Takahashi at the height of her powers. She's in full control of her material and, in my experience, hasn't ever resorted to underplanned story arcs (hello, Hiro Mashima). I can take or leave the monster-of-the week stuff, but there is no doubt that those parts are excellently done, with lots of dynamic motion and cool page layouts where the main participant in the combat "pops out" from the page. High stakes battle and drama is nicely balanced out with slapstick, bickering, and silly facial expressions. If you are at all interested in shonen manga, I highly recommend this series.
April 22, 2022
More fun with Inuyasha and Kagome
First up we pickup with the electric brothers. This fight is pretty intense and we get some excellent fighting moments as well as Kagome and Shippou getting to shine alongside Inuyasha. On top of that we get a lot of cool moments later on with our favorite Monk who has a black hole in his hand, and his introduction is something I couldn't remember but it's still great. Just a tad pervy.
The middle section probably weakest but we do learn of Inuyasha's curse of turning human once a month due to the moon. A cool idea that leaves our hero much weaker. Also Keiko! Woot woot. Some good stuff there.
First up we pickup with the electric brothers. This fight is pretty intense and we get some excellent fighting moments as well as Kagome and Shippou getting to shine alongside Inuyasha. On top of that we get a lot of cool moments later on with our favorite Monk who has a black hole in his hand, and his introduction is something I couldn't remember but it's still great. Just a tad pervy.
The middle section probably weakest but we do learn of Inuyasha's curse of turning human once a month due to the moon. A cool idea that leaves our hero much weaker. Also Keiko! Woot woot. Some good stuff there.
June 19, 2020
Inuyasha, Inuyasha, Inuyasha....
I just love this story so much. I'm already crazy about the anime so I'm dipping into the manga now. I decided to take my time and let it simmer and soak. It's making me so happy.
A summary of events with no context:
*Is that Lightning AND Thunder?
*Aack! My Hair!
*Girls make great potions!
*But Inuyasha loves me!
*Inuyasha: "Who loves who?!"
*Is she a ghost?
*Don't let his eyes open!
*Inuyasha's secret time of the month!
*This is a bad time to meet creepy spider people!
*Give me back my soul, Kikyo!
*Miroku the Monk saves an ugly princess.
*Give those shards back and don't spy on women bathing!
*What's up with his hand??
*Here comes Kagome in the wind!
*Uh oh Inuyash! What's that smell?
The only thing missing from this perfect book was Sesshomaru. I'm just going to add a gif of him on every review because everybody deserves more Sesshomaru.
I just love this story so much. I'm already crazy about the anime so I'm dipping into the manga now. I decided to take my time and let it simmer and soak. It's making me so happy.
A summary of events with no context:
*Is that Lightning AND Thunder?
*Aack! My Hair!
*Girls make great potions!
*But Inuyasha loves me!
*Inuyasha: "Who loves who?!"
*Is she a ghost?
*Don't let his eyes open!
*Inuyasha's secret time of the month!
*This is a bad time to meet creepy spider people!
*Give me back my soul, Kikyo!
*Miroku the Monk saves an ugly princess.
*Give those shards back and don't spy on women bathing!
*What's up with his hand??
*Here comes Kagome in the wind!
*Uh oh Inuyash! What's that smell?
The only thing missing from this perfect book was Sesshomaru. I'm just going to add a gif of him on every review because everybody deserves more Sesshomaru.
December 18, 2025
There’s been too many things happening in this volume sooooo I decided to just sum up my thoughts about this volume like this:
I‘m relieved that Mayu managed to find peace in the end - that episode was depressing as heeeeeck😭
Also, EWWWWWW
*cue the meme sound: brother ewww*
The spiders only gave me the creeps; I‘ll hope there won‘t be any other kind of spider-demons going forward lmaoooo
Otherwise you‘ll see me curled under a blanket, tears soaking the pages of the manga, while my hands shake - making it impossible to read fml😭
Ermmmm Kikyo??? Tf??
Miroku is in a league of his own lmaooo
Shippo is just too wholesome I can‘t🤧
A big thanks to one of my two BEST friends for getting me this manga for my bday - Sofija girlie ilysm, thanks for spoiling me, enhancing my addiction to mangas and also helping me fill out my shelves ahhh *it‘s highly appreciated*😭🫶🏻
I‘m relieved that Mayu managed to find peace in the end - that episode was depressing as heeeeeck😭
Also, EWWWWWW
*cue the meme sound: brother ewww*
The spiders only gave me the creeps; I‘ll hope there won‘t be any other kind of spider-demons going forward lmaoooo
Otherwise you‘ll see me curled under a blanket, tears soaking the pages of the manga, while my hands shake - making it impossible to read fml😭
Ermmmm Kikyo??? Tf??
Miroku is in a league of his own lmaooo
Shippo is just too wholesome I can‘t🤧
A big thanks to one of my two BEST friends for getting me this manga for my bday - Sofija girlie ilysm, thanks for spoiling me, enhancing my addiction to mangas and also helping me fill out my shelves ahhh *it‘s highly appreciated*😭🫶🏻
May 9, 2024
Oh, now we're getting to it with my favorite vengeful priestess!
Also, I'm finding the Inuyasha group much more loveable in manga form. (Probably because I don't have to listen to all the shrieking.)
Also, I'm finding the Inuyasha group much more loveable in manga form. (Probably because I don't have to listen to all the shrieking.)
April 18, 2025
Inuyasha is my comfort blanket since I was a kid 🖤
Weird to revisit the series by stating on volume 2 but the 1st volume is on a long waitlist 😵💫
love how packed these volumes are~
Weird to revisit the series by stating on volume 2 but the 1st volume is on a long waitlist 😵💫
love how packed these volumes are~
August 12, 2019
Another great volume that moved the story along. It feels like a lot really happened in this volume. Would really recommend this series! There is some romance, action, fantastical elements, and even a little “slice of life”. Really, something for everyone.
September 20, 2023
Kikyo, my all time favourite character, so beautifully tragic, so full of spite but also the (begrudged) embodiment of spiritual purity, I could NEVER hate her
July 2, 2024
I love you, Inuyasha, my shojo disguised as a shonen manga… <3
We get more Kikyo lore and Inuyasha’s time of the month in this volume, so that’s fun! It’s still villain of the week as we’re slowly being introduced to people like the obligatory unnecessarily perverted side character. I’ve seen much worse, but man, I’d be way more likely to care about Miroku if he didn’t grope girls. I think everything else about him (including his flaws) works fine, but his arc would be more interesting to follow if his lecher traits stopped at asking women to have his children. He doesn’t ruin my enjoyment that much since there’s more in this series to like than hate, but I’ll complain about him anyway. Kagome is still cool and special, and Inuyasha is still a tsundere, and that’s all that really matters at the end of the day.
We get more Kikyo lore and Inuyasha’s time of the month in this volume, so that’s fun! It’s still villain of the week as we’re slowly being introduced to people like the obligatory unnecessarily perverted side character. I’ve seen much worse, but man, I’d be way more likely to care about Miroku if he didn’t grope girls. I think everything else about him (including his flaws) works fine, but his arc would be more interesting to follow if his lecher traits stopped at asking women to have his children. He doesn’t ruin my enjoyment that much since there’s more in this series to like than hate, but I’ll complain about him anyway. Kagome is still cool and special, and Inuyasha is still a tsundere, and that’s all that really matters at the end of the day.
June 15, 2024
Oohh. We get the introduction to Kikyo and Miroku in this issue! I love that. (I'm still indifferent when it comes to Kikyo, and Miroku is still the sly monk I know from the anime 😂) And human Inuyasha?! I still remember having the biggest crush on his human form lol
I also love how Inuyasha mangas are just so funny? Lmao, like how did the creator blend gore, trauma, humor, and romance altogether? 😂
I also love how Inuyasha mangas are just so funny? Lmao, like how did the creator blend gore, trauma, humor, and romance altogether? 😂
October 8, 2024
I continue to enjoy this classic series very much. We get some backstory here and the beginnings of romance. I also love the new character we meet at the end, Miroku. He's clever and his flirtations are quite funny.
September 28, 2022
This series has so much action, adventure, and banter to enjoy! I like how Inuyasha and Kagome’s relationship is progressing.
Contains:
-Violence
Contains:
-Violence
June 26, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded up)
November 23, 2025
That first volume was kinda boring but it did pick up on the second half.
July 1, 2023
Let me be clear. I have never read a mega book. I have no idea if I even read this book correctly. However, I did enjoy it. It was long, but I read it in one sitting because it was so enjoyable. I loved the characters, and it made me miss watching the TV show. Although I did like reading it as well, which I did not expect. If you are an Inuyasha fan, this book will not disappoint!
January 1, 2025
2025 Reading Goal: Finish or be up-to-date with the book/manga series I've started in the past. Rereads will not be considered as part of my 2025 reads!
1st manga reread of the year!
01 Jan 2025 Review
I absolutely love the illustrations in this manga; the level of detail is astounding! Each panel feels alive, whether it’s the intricate designs of the characters' outfits, the breathtaking backgrounds, or the dynamic action sequences. You can tell the artist pours their heart into every line.
I’m also so impressed by how each volume introduces such brilliant and memorable villains. They’re not just adversaries; they’re fully fleshed-out characters with unique personalities. It keeps the story fresh and exciting.
What makes this manga even more enjoyable is the perfect balance between serious and funny scenes. The intense, high-stakes moments are gripping, but they’re wonderfully complemented by humorous interactions that offer a much-needed breather. It’s a fantastic combination that keeps me hooked from start to finish!
1st manga reread of the year!
01 Jan 2025 Review
I absolutely love the illustrations in this manga; the level of detail is astounding! Each panel feels alive, whether it’s the intricate designs of the characters' outfits, the breathtaking backgrounds, or the dynamic action sequences. You can tell the artist pours their heart into every line.
I’m also so impressed by how each volume introduces such brilliant and memorable villains. They’re not just adversaries; they’re fully fleshed-out characters with unique personalities. It keeps the story fresh and exciting.
What makes this manga even more enjoyable is the perfect balance between serious and funny scenes. The intense, high-stakes moments are gripping, but they’re wonderfully complemented by humorous interactions that offer a much-needed breather. It’s a fantastic combination that keeps me hooked from start to finish!
February 9, 2020
So, I still love the series, but around this time and this is the grey area where I don't absolutely love everything with the series. In this edition we get the first introduction to Shippo and Miroku, so the squad is building. It's the sweet area where our love duo is starting to develop feels for each other. Until (heavy sigh) SHE shows up. And rereading this I can really sympathize with how she didn't want to die and her feelings towards everyone being "Fuck Off levels". And there is a hidden gem in this series, where off hand Inuyasha admits he was trying to learn how to ride Kagome's bike.
August 31, 2016
Great manga for this series. A must read. Loved the cartoon for it.
August 13, 2018
Another overly enjoyable and easy novel to get lost in! The art work is amazing and it's so easy to lose track of time when you devour it's contents
July 25, 2023
Better than the first volume. The two main characters are fully realized, dynamic personalities, their adventures are varied and dramatic, and the art is stunning.
Thunder brothers 7 chapters—
This is a combat heavy arc featuring a supernatural martial arts battle. It’s well plotted and doesn’t rely on the trope of flashy special moves with ridiculous names like so many shonen. Instead, the battle progresses logically with the clever use of tactics, including previously established abilities and exploiting the environment. This is how fights should be handled.
They get some Shikon shards and Shippo joins the party.
Girl ghost 4 chapters—
This arc switches things up and is about helping a ghost come to terms with its past so it can move on to the afterlife. Instead of combat, the heroes need to solve the mystery of the ghost’s identity and past and help her resolve her emotional trauma. So it’s basically like ghost whisperer. A nice change of pace showing the breadth of takahashi’s writing ability.
Spider head 6 chapters—
This arc focuses on horror. Initially responding to a call for aid, the heroes fall into a carefully laid trap. A slow build, a great reveal, a nice twist. Mounting tension as they are trapped in a haunted temple. And a great monster design, one of many in Inuyasha. Overall this might be the most horrific episode; it’s brilliantly crafted and pushes the heroes to the limit.
In this case that’s because Inuyasha loses his powers and becomes a normal human. (Which happens every new moon, due to his status as a half-demon, a weakness he tries to keep secret as it’s a dangerous liability). This vulnerability is important for creating the sense of danger essential to horror.
They get more Shikon shards. Also Inuyasha comes the closest yet to admitting his love for Kagome and says she smells nice while he’s delirious.
Golem witch 6 chapters—
This arc deals with some central backstory involving Kikyo & Inuyasha.
The heroes must defeat an ogress and the golem she makes from kikiyo’s bones to house the priestess’ reincarnated spirit, which she sucks out of Kagome.
In this arc we first learn about the main series villain, Naraku, who was the cause of kikiiyo’s death and Inuyasha’s imprisonment. At the end the reincarnated golem Kikiyo is still at large, unbeknownst to the heroes, so this arc will have further implications rather than being entirely self-contained like most prior arcs.
Admittedly the exposition can get a bit clunky and the logic behind the magic is hazy.
Demon painter 8 chapters—
I found this arc the most boring because of the lack of danger and a lot of aimless conversation. It introduces a major new character — an apparently perfect young monk who is actually a thief, but one with morals, who does good deeds in payment for what he steals. Even if it is just a front, the goody two shoes act means that the monk is a boring character. He has a family curse — a void in his right hand that he neutralizes with mala beads. It will one day kill him but currently serves as a formidable weapon.
The curse was inflicted by Naraku, the same demon who wronged Inuyasha, and so they decide to team up to hunt him. The monk serves as a source of information / exposition on Naraku.
In the course of the arc they also battle the demon painter but it almost seems like an afterthought. They get another shard and the monk joins the party.
The art is consistently high level. Simple at first glance, greater scrutiny reveals a masterful command of character, emotion, movement, and composition. Takahashi does an excellent job of using value, something many mangaka neglect. Her clean and fluid brushwork is a delight.
Thunder brothers 7 chapters—
This is a combat heavy arc featuring a supernatural martial arts battle. It’s well plotted and doesn’t rely on the trope of flashy special moves with ridiculous names like so many shonen. Instead, the battle progresses logically with the clever use of tactics, including previously established abilities and exploiting the environment. This is how fights should be handled.
They get some Shikon shards and Shippo joins the party.
Girl ghost 4 chapters—
This arc switches things up and is about helping a ghost come to terms with its past so it can move on to the afterlife. Instead of combat, the heroes need to solve the mystery of the ghost’s identity and past and help her resolve her emotional trauma. So it’s basically like ghost whisperer. A nice change of pace showing the breadth of takahashi’s writing ability.
Spider head 6 chapters—
This arc focuses on horror. Initially responding to a call for aid, the heroes fall into a carefully laid trap. A slow build, a great reveal, a nice twist. Mounting tension as they are trapped in a haunted temple. And a great monster design, one of many in Inuyasha. Overall this might be the most horrific episode; it’s brilliantly crafted and pushes the heroes to the limit.
In this case that’s because Inuyasha loses his powers and becomes a normal human. (Which happens every new moon, due to his status as a half-demon, a weakness he tries to keep secret as it’s a dangerous liability). This vulnerability is important for creating the sense of danger essential to horror.
They get more Shikon shards. Also Inuyasha comes the closest yet to admitting his love for Kagome and says she smells nice while he’s delirious.
Golem witch 6 chapters—
This arc deals with some central backstory involving Kikyo & Inuyasha.
The heroes must defeat an ogress and the golem she makes from kikiyo’s bones to house the priestess’ reincarnated spirit, which she sucks out of Kagome.
In this arc we first learn about the main series villain, Naraku, who was the cause of kikiiyo’s death and Inuyasha’s imprisonment. At the end the reincarnated golem Kikiyo is still at large, unbeknownst to the heroes, so this arc will have further implications rather than being entirely self-contained like most prior arcs.
Admittedly the exposition can get a bit clunky and the logic behind the magic is hazy.
Demon painter 8 chapters—
I found this arc the most boring because of the lack of danger and a lot of aimless conversation. It introduces a major new character — an apparently perfect young monk who is actually a thief, but one with morals, who does good deeds in payment for what he steals. Even if it is just a front, the goody two shoes act means that the monk is a boring character. He has a family curse — a void in his right hand that he neutralizes with mala beads. It will one day kill him but currently serves as a formidable weapon.
The curse was inflicted by Naraku, the same demon who wronged Inuyasha, and so they decide to team up to hunt him. The monk serves as a source of information / exposition on Naraku.
In the course of the arc they also battle the demon painter but it almost seems like an afterthought. They get another shard and the monk joins the party.
The art is consistently high level. Simple at first glance, greater scrutiny reveals a masterful command of character, emotion, movement, and composition. Takahashi does an excellent job of using value, something many mangaka neglect. Her clean and fluid brushwork is a delight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 23, 2021I love how dumb Inuyasha is about feeling emotions and how that plays into the developing relationship with Kagome. Kikyo is brought back to life and their mutual misunderstanding of what how they each died hits a lot harder as an adult and makes Kikyo a more sympathetic character, though the love triangle aspect is beyond frustrating. I do wish Kaede and Kikyo had more moments together. Their dynamic, as well as Kikyo's habit of caring for children, is really interesting and could have been built up and explored, just a bit, throughout the series.
One thing about rereading this series now, is I was worried how much I would be able to stomach of Miroku. He was my favorite character in high school (largely due to Kirby Morrow's voice acting), but god the groping and harassment is not good! It sucks that it's played for laughs, even with or especially because none of the women (victims, tbh) enjoy it or consent. Like, it just sucks and it's one of the more difficult aspects of rereading (and rewatching) the series.
The most I can say about it is at least he goes for butts, because that seems less aggressive than breasts? It would be much more palatable if he just pursued any beautiful woman, asked if they'd have his child, and stop there rather than also groping. Like, you can have a horny character who's enthusiastic about sex without the lack of consent. Honestly, though, as much as I loved manga and anime in high school, I've been falling out with it for several years for the sexual objectification and the sexual harassment as a joke.
I will say, despite all that, I still love the series and don't totally hate Miroku. I think nostalgia is doing a lot of that work for me, but it is what it is!
One thing about rereading this series now, is I was worried how much I would be able to stomach of Miroku. He was my favorite character in high school (largely due to Kirby Morrow's voice acting), but god the groping and harassment is not good! It sucks that it's played for laughs, even with or especially because none of the women (victims, tbh) enjoy it or consent. Like, it just sucks and it's one of the more difficult aspects of rereading (and rewatching) the series.
The most I can say about it is at least he goes for butts, because that seems less aggressive than breasts? It would be much more palatable if he just pursued any beautiful woman, asked if they'd have his child, and stop there rather than also groping. Like, you can have a horny character who's enthusiastic about sex without the lack of consent. Honestly, though, as much as I loved manga and anime in high school, I've been falling out with it for several years for the sexual objectification and the sexual harassment as a joke.
I will say, despite all that, I still love the series and don't totally hate Miroku. I think nostalgia is doing a lot of that work for me, but it is what it is!
April 5, 2022
This was such an incredible collection of stories! I should mention that the volumes I'm reading are all omnibuses, so it's about 3 volumes in 1. As I read, memories of watching the anime flashed in my mind. As a kid, I'd stay up late to watch it on Adult Swim lol those truly were the days lol
The second story is what really made this feel super nostalgic for me. It's the story of a little girl who dies in a fire. She resents her mom and brother for surviving and ultimately "forgetting" about her. Just like in the anime, I felt for that little girl so much. Takahashi is so damn brilliant. She has the ability to create these bratty, undeserving characters but by the end of it, all you want to do is help them lol
This volume is an easy 10/10. The artwork is incredible, as always. The romance is slowly blossoming and Inuyasha's old flame has somehow returned. Dun dun duuuuuun! Can't wait to keep going!
The second story is what really made this feel super nostalgic for me. It's the story of a little girl who dies in a fire. She resents her mom and brother for surviving and ultimately "forgetting" about her. Just like in the anime, I felt for that little girl so much. Takahashi is so damn brilliant. She has the ability to create these bratty, undeserving characters but by the end of it, all you want to do is help them lol
This volume is an easy 10/10. The artwork is incredible, as always. The romance is slowly blossoming and Inuyasha's old flame has somehow returned. Dun dun duuuuuun! Can't wait to keep going!
July 4, 2022
Six volumes down, I'm actually liking Inuyasha was more than I thought I would!
This collection of volumes was a little less action packed than the first but there is much more character development. We learn the true backstory of Kikiyo and Inuyasha, I won't spoil the details but I found it very interesting. The Orgress that created the body of of earth and bones was a great arc probably my favorite so far. Of course we me Miroku and find out of Naraku.
The seeds are being sown for the story at large.
These volumes had less gore but that's okay, there was a cool part with this man got his hands on a shikon jewel shard and he used it to control demons. The demons would steal livers from men and when Inuyasha and company find a massacre all of their cavities are torn open and you can see their ribs, pretty gnarly stuff.
Also that spider creature, stuff of nightmares. :)
I look forward to the next 3 volumes as the plot thickens!
This collection of volumes was a little less action packed than the first but there is much more character development. We learn the true backstory of Kikiyo and Inuyasha, I won't spoil the details but I found it very interesting. The Orgress that created the body of of earth and bones was a great arc probably my favorite so far. Of course we me Miroku and find out of Naraku.
The seeds are being sown for the story at large.
These volumes had less gore but that's okay, there was a cool part with this man got his hands on a shikon jewel shard and he used it to control demons. The demons would steal livers from men and when Inuyasha and company find a massacre all of their cavities are torn open and you can see their ribs, pretty gnarly stuff.
Also that spider creature, stuff of nightmares. :)
I look forward to the next 3 volumes as the plot thickens!
February 3, 2021
I highly enjoyed this! I ADORE the anime of Inuyasha and the manga isn’t letting it down!
In this volume, we see Kagome and Inuyasha have to battle a spider demon to get some of the Shikon jewel shards, which I didn’t hate, considering I hate spiders! It wasn’t drawn grotesquely, which I appreciated. Also, we see Kagome get compared to Kikyo again. This continues happening throughout the series, I believe as Kagome is like Kikyo’s double. I think my favourite chapters were the last ones, where Miroku enters the story. He’s a funny character. Oh, and Shippo is cute too!
The next volume sees Sesshomaru come back. I can’t wait to read that as he’s my favourite character, along with Rin whom we don’t meet for some time in the manga. She comes into the anime a lot sooner (season 2, I believe).
In this volume, we see Kagome and Inuyasha have to battle a spider demon to get some of the Shikon jewel shards, which I didn’t hate, considering I hate spiders! It wasn’t drawn grotesquely, which I appreciated. Also, we see Kagome get compared to Kikyo again. This continues happening throughout the series, I believe as Kagome is like Kikyo’s double. I think my favourite chapters were the last ones, where Miroku enters the story. He’s a funny character. Oh, and Shippo is cute too!
The next volume sees Sesshomaru come back. I can’t wait to read that as he’s my favourite character, along with Rin whom we don’t meet for some time in the manga. She comes into the anime a lot sooner (season 2, I believe).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2019
Another fun omnibus of Inuyasha with the conclusion of the Thunder Brothers, a tale about why all good children should indeed go into the light when the time is right, a story about how appearances can be deceiving while Inuyasha has a secret revealed, the return of Inyasha's lost love and enemy Kikiyo, we also get to meet the perverted monk Miroku and see his cursed wind tunnel in action just in time to handle a tale of ink and blood as a fragment of a jewel starts bringing terrifying images to life. The action and comedy are full steam as Inuyasha, Kagome, and the rest of the ever growing crew seek out the shards of the shikon jewel of legend. :)
February 11, 2023
Re-reading this series as an adult I’ve been struck by how it is very clearly a love story. So much of the narrative boils down to Kagome and Inuyasha’s relationship. They both constantly wonder how the other thinks of them and they bicker like an old couple. On top of that, the action sequences are all exciting and the horror elements are just the right level of gory. It’s no surprise that this series was as popular as it was in its heyday. It really is a perfect blend of genres.
In regards to this section of the story, it does a lot of the groundwork for later elements in the story, mainly by introducing some new characters and even hinting at villains to come.
In regards to this section of the story, it does a lot of the groundwork for later elements in the story, mainly by introducing some new characters and even hinting at villains to come.
June 20, 2021
4 stars.
I completely forgot about the story with the painter who uses tainted ink that makes his drawings come to life. We finally met Miroku, the perverted monk, and Shippo! We also are told about Naraku and the many forms they have taken. Kikyo was revived in this one as well. It was an eventful manga, or I guess 3 mangas. I'm still taken aback over how long this is since its 3 mangas in 1.
Even though, I've watched the anime countless times, especially the first 2 seasons, I feel like I'm still taking a lot away from the manga and that makes me happy.
I completely forgot about the story with the painter who uses tainted ink that makes his drawings come to life. We finally met Miroku, the perverted monk, and Shippo! We also are told about Naraku and the many forms they have taken. Kikyo was revived in this one as well. It was an eventful manga, or I guess 3 mangas. I'm still taken aback over how long this is since its 3 mangas in 1.
Even though, I've watched the anime countless times, especially the first 2 seasons, I feel like I'm still taking a lot away from the manga and that makes me happy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2012
*5 stars*
See my review for the first book for more about the series in general. my review
*The Gush*
Another great three volumes of manga early on in this essential manga series. We are still team building as well as introducing another major character that will haunt this series for many many books to come.
Characters
Not only do we become better acquainted with the young fox demon, Shippo, from the end of the last volume, but we are introduced to a new member of the team - Miroku, the lecherous monk with a curse and reasons of his own to search for the Shikon shards. A character from the very beginning comes back with a vengeance, and Kikyo (or the clay pot as I call her) returns to haunt the rest of the series. It always surprises how quickly it happened in the manga...and how long she remains to taunt everyone.
Ones we are introduced to in this volume:
Shippo - a young fox demon who is an orphan and is basically adopted by the group. Uses foxfire magic to aid the group when he can.
Kikyo - the priestess who opened the very first volume of the series. She had been the guardian of the Shikon Jewel and was reincarnated into Kagome. She returns because of dark demon magic and bares a vengeful grudge against Inuyasha.
Miroku - a Buddhist priest who is lecherous and cursed with a wind tunnel that will eventually swallow him. He joins the group and acts as another fairly hard fighter with Inuyasha while Kagome and Shippo serve as the rear guard.
Plot
We continue to be treated to the staple of the series: big monster fight, retreat to the modern world to deal with a demon there, and the return to rinse and repeat. However, the monsters are interesting, the fights impressive, and the character building is wonderful.
Writing/Illustrations
Still exceptional on both counts. There's a reason Takahashi is so well known. Her characters are not only well conceived and executed, but her dialogue flows and tells the story and her artwork is simply amazing.
Volume 4 (p. 11-191)
We pick up where the previous manga left us, with Kagome and Shippo facing Manten, one of the Thunder Brothers. Kagome is captured and Shippo works with Inuyasha to try to rescue her. In the ensuing battle, Inuyasha continues to grow not just as a fighter, but also as a character. Kagome continues to aid him at odd times. Then it is on to the modern world, where Kagome gets involved with a young girl's ghost who, trapped by her anger and hurt, is striking out at her mother and brother. Kagome continues to grow as a potential Miko (priestess).
Volume 5 (p. 195-379)
The first story in this volume introduces a plot device that becomes an essential part of the saga to come. Inuyasha is a half-demon, and as such is looked down upon by full demons. However, we find out his half-blood status is even more dangerous. At certain times, his demon blood weakens, causing him to turn fully human. Think of it as his 'monthly problem' like a werewolf or something (though his is the night of the new moon). The team, now with Shippo as a member, or forced to battle with an old spider demon who has killed a number of people in the region in order to bring the team there with their jewel shards. Their bad luck, it falls during this time and not only does the team find out, but they are forced to fight to protect their weakened comrade. The second story brings Kikyo back to land of the 'living' as a type of golem for an ogress. However, we see her spiritual power in effect when she overthrows the ogress and instead attacks Inuyasha! We discover for a certainty that Kagome is the reincarnation of Kikyo.
Volume 6 (p. 383-564)
The Kikyo story continues as we discover that she and Inuyasha loved each other but died/sealed away hating the other because of a third party (as of now unknown) and she cannot rest until Inuyasha is dragged down to hell with her. We also learn that he had decided to use the Shikon jewel to become fully human, which would have purified the jewel and caused it to disappear. Kikyo tries to kill Inuyasha, but Kagome takes back most of her soul-showing that she is more than just a reincarnation. The rest of the volume introduces Miroku, the lecherous Buddhist monk who has a cursed hellhole in his right hand that will some day devour him. This is courtesy of a demon named Naraku, who they find out is most likely the third party who turned Kikyo and Inuyasha against each other. Though reluctant to join the group (and our main character doesn't want him anywhere near Kagome), he does at the end and they continue on their hunt for the shards...and Naraku.
*The Rant*
Very little here. My main problem with this particular volume is the absolutely monstrous long side story Kikyo spawns this early in the series. I don't like her character, I don't like what they do with her, and I really think the clay pot needs to die. While this book makes Miroku out as a less then great character, the more you see of him the better you will like him. There is more to him then just his...less then priest like nature. The stories are very solid in this one though, some the better ones.
*Conclusion*
If you got through the first three, you definitely want to give these a try and continue on in the series. These are very solid volumes, some of the better in the saga, and a most enjoyable read.
See my review for the first book for more about the series in general. my review
*The Gush*
Another great three volumes of manga early on in this essential manga series. We are still team building as well as introducing another major character that will haunt this series for many many books to come.
Characters
Not only do we become better acquainted with the young fox demon, Shippo, from the end of the last volume, but we are introduced to a new member of the team - Miroku, the lecherous monk with a curse and reasons of his own to search for the Shikon shards. A character from the very beginning comes back with a vengeance, and Kikyo (or the clay pot as I call her) returns to haunt the rest of the series. It always surprises how quickly it happened in the manga...and how long she remains to taunt everyone.
Ones we are introduced to in this volume:
Shippo - a young fox demon who is an orphan and is basically adopted by the group. Uses foxfire magic to aid the group when he can.
Kikyo - the priestess who opened the very first volume of the series. She had been the guardian of the Shikon Jewel and was reincarnated into Kagome. She returns because of dark demon magic and bares a vengeful grudge against Inuyasha.
Miroku - a Buddhist priest who is lecherous and cursed with a wind tunnel that will eventually swallow him. He joins the group and acts as another fairly hard fighter with Inuyasha while Kagome and Shippo serve as the rear guard.
Plot
We continue to be treated to the staple of the series: big monster fight, retreat to the modern world to deal with a demon there, and the return to rinse and repeat. However, the monsters are interesting, the fights impressive, and the character building is wonderful.
Writing/Illustrations
Still exceptional on both counts. There's a reason Takahashi is so well known. Her characters are not only well conceived and executed, but her dialogue flows and tells the story and her artwork is simply amazing.
Volume 4 (p. 11-191)
We pick up where the previous manga left us, with Kagome and Shippo facing Manten, one of the Thunder Brothers. Kagome is captured and Shippo works with Inuyasha to try to rescue her. In the ensuing battle, Inuyasha continues to grow not just as a fighter, but also as a character. Kagome continues to aid him at odd times. Then it is on to the modern world, where Kagome gets involved with a young girl's ghost who, trapped by her anger and hurt, is striking out at her mother and brother. Kagome continues to grow as a potential Miko (priestess).
Volume 5 (p. 195-379)
The first story in this volume introduces a plot device that becomes an essential part of the saga to come. Inuyasha is a half-demon, and as such is looked down upon by full demons. However, we find out his half-blood status is even more dangerous. At certain times, his demon blood weakens, causing him to turn fully human. Think of it as his 'monthly problem' like a werewolf or something (though his is the night of the new moon). The team, now with Shippo as a member, or forced to battle with an old spider demon who has killed a number of people in the region in order to bring the team there with their jewel shards. Their bad luck, it falls during this time and not only does the team find out, but they are forced to fight to protect their weakened comrade. The second story brings Kikyo back to land of the 'living' as a type of golem for an ogress. However, we see her spiritual power in effect when she overthrows the ogress and instead attacks Inuyasha! We discover for a certainty that Kagome is the reincarnation of Kikyo.
Volume 6 (p. 383-564)
The Kikyo story continues as we discover that she and Inuyasha loved each other but died/sealed away hating the other because of a third party (as of now unknown) and she cannot rest until Inuyasha is dragged down to hell with her. We also learn that he had decided to use the Shikon jewel to become fully human, which would have purified the jewel and caused it to disappear. Kikyo tries to kill Inuyasha, but Kagome takes back most of her soul-showing that she is more than just a reincarnation. The rest of the volume introduces Miroku, the lecherous Buddhist monk who has a cursed hellhole in his right hand that will some day devour him. This is courtesy of a demon named Naraku, who they find out is most likely the third party who turned Kikyo and Inuyasha against each other. Though reluctant to join the group (and our main character doesn't want him anywhere near Kagome), he does at the end and they continue on their hunt for the shards...and Naraku.
*The Rant*
Very little here. My main problem with this particular volume is the absolutely monstrous long side story Kikyo spawns this early in the series. I don't like her character, I don't like what they do with her, and I really think the clay pot needs to die. While this book makes Miroku out as a less then great character, the more you see of him the better you will like him. There is more to him then just his...less then priest like nature. The stories are very solid in this one though, some the better ones.
*Conclusion*
If you got through the first three, you definitely want to give these a try and continue on in the series. These are very solid volumes, some of the better in the saga, and a most enjoyable read.
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