A total shift!

God I love this series so much. One of the things I really love about it is how it continues to push forward and shift as a series and actually allows the characters to have consequences for their actions. No one in this series is a black or white character; everyone is moralistically grey. That works great for the characterization and intrigue behind each character, but I love that they actually have to deal with the negative consequences of their moral failings unlike in other manga’s where they basically get away with literal murder.

After the dramatic events of last volume, this volume takes a total 180 by introducing us a slew of new characters outside of the school. Without spoiling too much, almost this entire volume takes place outside of the Academy with different characters learning about how to survive in the real world with new threats and temptations. I adored all the new characters, especially Yahya, the current Beastar who is a horse. He was fascinating to read about, along with how his life directly leads to Legoshi. It’s absolutely fascinating.

Reviewing this series is always hard because I just want to yell THIS TOTALLY RULES over and over, but it’s fantastic. I always look forward to new volumes and this series never fails to deliver.

Title:  Beastars (Volume 12)
Author: Paru Itagaki
Format: Paperback
Pages: 208
ISBN: 9781974712540

Three Descriptors: Captivating, Dark, Dramatic