Mangaka Ryo Ishiyama may not be a household name yet, but his work is gaining attention in the manga world. His series, Dragon and Chameleon, has caught the eye of many, including My Hero Academia creator Kōhei Horikoshi. Today, I’ll be reviewing the first volume of this exciting series to see if it lives up to the hype.
The story revolves around Garyo Hanagami, a successful manga artist whose series, Doragon Land, has been a hit for seven years. Garyo’s assistant, Shinobu Miyama, is a talented artist known for his ability to mimic others’ styles. However, Shinobu struggles to find success with his original work due to his bitter attitude and past failures.
A supernatural twist occurs when Garyo and Shinobu swap bodies after an accident. Now, they must navigate each other’s lives and careers. Shinobu aims to claim Doragon Land for himself, while Garyo is determined to expose Shinobu as an imposter and start over from scratch.
Dragon and Chameleon is a charming tale that delves into the world of manga creation. Ishiyama’s attention to detail and passion for the craft shine through in the story. While the body-swapping element adds a fantastical touch, the series still manages to capture the essence of the industry and the dedication required to succeed.
Both Garyo and Shinobu represent different aspects of the creative process, from unwavering passion to jaded disillusionment. The artwork in the series is visually stunning, with distinct character designs that draw readers into the story. Despite being a newcomer to the field, Ishiyama’s talent is evident in every panel.
Thanks to Square Enix Manga, Western audiences can now enjoy Dragon and Chameleon. The translation is well done, with helpful notes for readers unfamiliar with manga terminology. The series is ongoing in Japan, with more volumes on the way for English readers to look forward to.
Overall, Dragon and Chameleon Volume 1 offers a fresh perspective on the manga industry with its riveting tale of rival creators. Whether you’re a fan of behind-the-scenes drama or simply looking for a compelling story, this series has something for everyone. I, for one, am eager to see how Ishiyama continues to develop the narrative in future volumes.
