Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind: Volume 1

Written and illustrated by Hayao Miyazaki
130 pages
Genre:  Manga, action, adventure, science-fiction, fantasy

Thousands of years after a devastating war, humanity has been reduced to small struggling tribes, as the world is slowly submerged in the ever-growing Sea of Corruption, a toxic forest full of poisonous spores and bizarre and dangerous mutant insects and plants.  In the tiny Valley of the Wind, lives the young princess Nausicaa who has an instinctive empathic bond with animals of all kinds, even the deadly giant Ohmu insects.  As a deadly war looms, and the Sea of Corruption grows ever bigger, Nausicaa may be the only one who can save the world.

This beautifully illustrated manga series was created, written and drawn by acclaimed animated movie writer/director Hayao Miyazaki, and formed the basis of his 1984 movie of the same name.  The artwork is beautiful and creates a stunning fantasy world.  It features many Miyazaki hallmarks, such as the environmental theme, and the intricately designed vehicles, particularly aircraft.

  

Ranma 1/2: Volumes 1 and 2

Written and illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi
360 pages
Genre:  Manga, action, comedy, romance, martial arts.

Ten years ago Genma Saotome promised his friend Soun Tendo that his martial artist son Ranma would marry one of Soun's three daughters and carry on the tradition of the family's martial arts school.  However there is a shock for the Tendos when Genma and Ranma finally appear.  While travelling in China, teenaged Ranma fell into a cursed spring, resulting in him changing into a girl every time he touches cold water, and only turning back into a  boy when she touches hot water.   Also Genma is a panda.

Ranma 1/2 is probably one of the most beloved manga series ever created.  Running from 1987 until 1996, this is a hugely entertaining blend of action, comedy and romance.  The story is constantly moving forward, with everyday events given a hilarious martial arts twist.  Takahashi's art style is beautifully detailed with a real vibrancy to the action scenes.