Review: Man of Many Faces Vols. 1 & 2

Man of Many Faces, Vols. 1 and 2

by CLAMP

VIZ Media, 2001

5 cups of tea out of 11

Summary: Akira, a third grader, is also a gentleman thief (like his father). He accidentally meets Utako Ogawa (who’s in kindergarten) after one of his heists and they start “going steady.”

Likes: Akira and Utako’s relationship is positive and supportive. There are some really funny moments scattered throughout.

Dislikes: There is no explanation for why Akira’s father is not living with his family. His mothers are mean. They are already rich and they beg him to go steal the things they want. Even though I like Akira and Utako’s relationship it is really hard to watch, like an overload of sugar and cheesiness.

Overall I was entertained. It was cheesy and ridiculous and I didn’t take anything seriously. But I had to knock it down a lot. I’ve read multiple series by CLAMP and I know they are capable of more complexity in plot and characterization. On the other hand, I knew the art wasn’t going to be as crisp but it is still creative and fun. Also Akira’s thief costume makes him look like Tuxedo Mask. I’m glad I read these but I probably won’t read it again.