In Nekota City, Inukai and his team of vigilantes known as "Grasshopper" protect the citizens from a rising crime wave and the greedy hands of businessmen bent on turning every block into a modern strip mall. But is this public hero actually a devil in disguise? And can high school student Ando use his mysterious power of "ventriloquism" to uncover the truth before it's too late?
As Ando leans to use his powers effectively, he must decide whether or not to oppose Inukai. A decision made much harder when it could cost him his life.
I still love how this series gives me chills. The growing mob mentality not so much. That’s two of the three assassins from the original. Whale and Cicada. I felt sorry for Semi being under Iwanashi’s thumb. Then there was the not so subtle puppet show metaphor. But still, dude you’re a pro and you got taken down by a kid. Ouch. Inukai still creeps me out and that never changes. It’s enjoyable but I dislike how it’s a collision course for tragedy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I'm not 100% sure what's even going on yet, but it's holding my attention. It leaves a lot of questions as they're building the plot.
Someone tries to have Ando assassinated. At the last minute, that's called off and the assassin decides to help Ando find out who's after him.
The part that threw me though is the first chapter has to do with a carnival ride breaking... Because one was basically demolished at the Ohio State Fair this week.
A stronger volume than the first but it’s still lacking a certain oomph, hard to describe. I think the overall mystery and artwork are still quite enjoyable but I find myself rolling my eyes when it comes to the over the top nature of grasshopper and the roundabout discussions about nekota city’s mass construction plan.
For one reason or another it’s hard for me to suspend disbelief here, but it’s not bad per say. It hooked me as a kid but as an adult it’s not really grabbing me.
Vol. 2 starts off with feet running and never lets down until the cliffhanger ending. Ando has been practicing his powers and gaining confidence. Meanwhile, we watch the cold-blooded kill of a hired assassin as he executes his current mission and then is given instructions to kill Ando next. As with other series it's difficult to tell much more plot without giving away spoilers.
This volume certainly concentrates on Ando and his younger brother Junya. We get a good feel for their characters as Ando rushes from one situation to another, occasionally accompanied by his brother. Inukai comes forth again with his group of Grasshoppers to save the day from bikers and thugs but his methods are clearly becoming questionable to all those involved.
An exciting story, full of different plot avenues all leading to the same destination. Main characters who are likable and evil characters who leave the reader wondering. Fast paced with an intriguing story. I'm loving this unique series. I'll be there for vol. 3 in December ('10)