After last week’s more heavy issue of 20th Century boys, this time I’m reviewing something considerably lighter.
Title: Oh, My Goddess! Volume 4
Written & Illustrated by Kosuke Fujishima
Adapted by Alan Glesson & Toren Smith
Lettering and Touch-up by L. Lois Buhalis, Tom Orzechowski, and Suzie Lee
Available from Amazon.com & RightStuf.com
The Premise
Aoshima and Sayoko are continuing to investigate what, exactly, Belldandy is. Meanwhile, the Motor club is continuing to compete in the “Golden Hammer” tournament, while Aoshima’s own motor club is setting a series of ringers against the Motor Club, in the hopes that Belldandy and Keiichi will break up over their “inevitable” defeat. And then there’s a new player on the scene – the demon Mara.
High Points
I like the Fundamental cluelessness of Aoshima thinking that if his Automotive club can beat the Motor Club, Belldandy and Keiichi would break up. It’s like he’s not familiar with the idea of people being in love before.
Also, makes for an interesting rival for Belldandy.
Low Points
I’m not a fan of the semi-bumbling Urd we have in this volume.
Scores
Originality: The “Love Potion Run Amuck” plot we got this volume isn’t particularly new, in fact it’s fairly cliche. However, the way the demon Mara is written and how her powers work is fairly unique. 4/6
Artwork: Fujishima’s art is still great, particularly in the racing sequences. 5/6
Story: The introduction of Mara is nicely done though it’s kind of dated in terms of how she’s introduced – I’ve got about 4 things in arms reach that are capable of playing CDs. 5/6
Emotional Response: The jokes in this volume generally work well, though they aren’t exactly gutbusters. 4/6
Characterization: Having Aoshima and Sayoko, and later Sayoko and Mara working together does a great job of fleshing out the three, based on their interactions. 4/6
Flow: 6/6
Overall: The manga expands its sitcom cast well, and while its not intellectually challenging, it’s nice fun comfort food. 4/6
In total, Oh My Goddess! Volume 4 gets 32/42.