Aria, The Masterpiece, Volume 1 by Kozue Amano

On the planet Aqua, a world once known as Mars, Akari Mizunashi has just made her home in the town of Neo-Venezia, a futuristic imitation of the ancient city of Venice. The technology of "Man Home" (formerly Earth) has not entirely reached this planet, and Akari is alone, having no contact with family or friends. Nonetheless, the town, with its charming labyrinths of rivers and canals, becomes Akari's new infatuation, along with the dream of becoming a full-fledged gondolier. Reverting to a more "primitive" lifestyle and pursuing a new trade, Akari becomes both adventurous and independent all at once.

Format: ebook
Narrator: n/a
Performance: n/a
Story:  🌑🌑🌑🌑

I regret not seeing the anime if only to see the gorgeous vistas of Aqua in color.

Light on plot and heavy on world-building, Aria, the manga, takes us to Neo-Venezia, a city that runs on gondolas. The aptly named Akari Mizunashi, arrives in the city to pursue her dream of becoming an undine, a gondolier who takes people on tours. She meets a Mars cat who turns out to be an important entity (of course) and from then on she starts her apprenticeship with Aria. 

The planet Aqua is a treasure chest. Yes, a treasure chest from long ago, filled to the brim with wonderful memories. That's why it feels so nostalgic. That's why it's so dear to me.

Each chapter is a slice of Akari's day to day and everyday, she discovers something magical about Aqua, big or small. She frequently emails a mysterious person about all the fascinating things she encounters. The manga's atmosphere is as laid-back and calming as city. There is practically zero conflict, just pleasant interactions that were actually really mundane if you think about it but in the hands of Kozue Amano became soft, dreamlike and sparkly. Also, the touches of magical realism lent it an endearing charm. 

Aria is the kind of feel-good manga you can read if you want a breather. It is a grand adventure taken one gentle step at a time. I am looking forward to exploring more of Neo-Venezia, see which directions the mangaka would nudge the almost non-existent plotlines and hunt for more wonderful treasures. 

P.S.

I received a copy of Aria The Masterpiece Volume 1 from Tokyo Pop  via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

SOUNDTRACK

Underwater
Kidswaste