GAMERA -REBIRTH-: CODE THYRSOS Vol. 1
by Hiroyuki Seshita and Cambria Bakuhatsu Taro
Available November 25
Like many, my first exposure to the kaiju legend that is Gamera was Mystery Science Theater 3000. Seeing the giant turtle beast make an honest-to-goodness comeback in recent years has been a lot of fun. And seeing that comeback extend to the world of manga, just two days before the franchise's 60th anniversary, is even better.
If you haven't seen Gamera -Rebirth-, you won't be completely in the dark. Heck, you won't be in the dark if you don't know a thing about the original monster. But if you know your kaiju, you're in for a treat as you watch them emerge in the world of this manga.
This prequel series takes place 100,000 years in the past, in the highly-advanced civilization of Elisitania. The upper echelons fight their battles using specially-manufacted kaiju. Protagonist Lucius watched his own father die in one such battle, and has been left scarred after protecting his sister Sica. Now, he's out for revenge — he plans to overthrow then entire system by immersing himself in the same research that tore his family apart.
While there are big monster fights to be had, and this story does indeed give us a backstory for the creature known as Gamera, this could easily be a stand-alone science fantasy. Cambria Bakuhatsu Taro's art is gorgeous, and the world of Elisitania will appeal to fans of high-tech historical legends like Atlantis. It's a very different approach to kaiju fiction, even in an era when kaiju fiction is going in all sorts of new directions, and it's as fun to look at as it is to read.
TEA PAIRING: Spice Chai Mélange
This sci-fi-inspired blend from Chapters evokes far-off times and places and massive beasts... just like Code Thyrsos! It's a spicy rooibos chai that's great for any time of day, especially for those of us trying to lower our caffeine intake. Use my code KARA15 for 15% off this and other teas from Chapters!
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