Category: Freaks

Author: Sakurako Gokurakuin
Illustrator: Sakurako Gokurakuin
English Publisher: DrMaster
Volume count: 3+ (Volume 4 has not been released yet)
Note: It seriously freaky.

     Humans are the embodiment of envy, greed, fear, desire. These weaknesses are preyed upon by evil spirits known as Freaks. With hopes of gaining strength, they may promise vengeance, wealth, the impossible if it means obtaining a living host. In certain cases, a mortal unable to resist the temptation of a Freak's power may succumb to possession; that is when the Nanami Paranormal Investigations takes a stand. This supernatural unit consists of a small group of individuals, each equipped with an unique ability for defeating Freaks. As the most powerful among them, Asagi Nanami is head of the office with Naoki Amano (the only normal human), as his assistant. Mahime Yoshino helps with the cleaning when she isn't out on an assignment herself and doing her own part when it comes to clean-up, Tokiko is a cute bunny-eared girl in charge of clearing all Freak-related messes. Along with the occasional help of a few other capable beings, the Paranormal Investigations agency works endlessly to bring balance to our corrupt society. Beginning with a regular case, Asagi and Naoki are called out onto the scene of a paranormal incident. Almost immediately, Asagi confirms the presence of fear, rage, jealousy and needless to say, a Freak. But when they're investigation leads to the discovery a suspicious type of flesh doll, they encounter an opponent like they've never seen before. Asagi and his crew must now come face to face with Hainuwele, the mother of all Freaks.

     It's a strange series. Aside from the fact that it's based on paranormal entities, the books are just plain unusual. If any of you are familiar with the mangaka Sakurako Gokurakuin (a.k.a Ashika Sakura), her style defiantly carries on into this manga as well. With her signature, unmistakable art style, Category: Freaks is an acquired taste. The drawings in this manga are simple and rough. Lines have a sharp look to them and detail is used when necessary. When reading through the series, you can also notice how the artist improves over time. While not as delicate and feminine as other styles, the drawings are done skillfully and fit the story appropriately. This series is not for underage readers for many reasons. Violence, blood, language, nudity, sexual content are constants in this manga as well as a bits and pieces of other subjects. Again, to those of you familiar with this mangaka's work, this is probably something you're used to. The story is interesting and a good read. It is after all, a mystery series and the occult theme really makes these books loads more unpredictable. Some of the characters are cute and some can be a little frightening, but they all have their own very different personalities that relate to each other in various ways. I recommend this series to those of you who enjoy a taste of something genuinely strange and dark. To those of you who don't, I still think you should look it up. Who knows, you might find it quite relevant to your interests.

This one was either really short or my last review was just really long. Thanks again, everyone! You guys are great! To be honest, I think I work harder on these than I do on my school essays. I discovered late last night that trying to type up something like this is really not meant for an itouch. At all. Well, look forward to another review from me later tomorrow. Oh, and according to the poll, you guys preferred action and comedy? Anyone else, speak now or forever hold your peace.