Warriors [manga]

Based on Erin Hunter's popular novel series, Warriors is the story of a wild cat-a real one, as opposed to manga's usual teenaged human wearing a short skirt and kitty-cat ears-who's separated from his family and friends. There are no plot surprises in this story of a lost hero, and the artwork is a literal, workmanlike rendition of cats and dogs in suburbia. Graystripe, the protagonist, is a mighty warrior of the beleaguered Thunderclan, which has recently been threatened by a combination of suburban development and a zealous cat catcher. The story opens with him imprisoned in a strangely seductive suburban home. After briefly succumbing to the charms of soft living as a "kittypet," Graystripe steels his resolve and vows to make his way back to the wild. Alas, he's lost his edge and finds himself spooked by everything from local bullies to lawnmowers. Luckily, he's joined by a helpful, attractive female sidekick, Millie, who knows her way around the challenges of "Twolegplace." Many little (and perhaps some larger) girls will find this kitty fantasy irresistible. (May) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

Gr 4-6-Graystripe is back in a new format. After rescuing everyone in Thunderclan, he is caught by animal control and adopted by a loving family. His worst fear has come true; he's a kittypet. He grows attached to the humans but misses his true home. A dream visit from his lost love and daughter convinces him to at least try to get back to the clan. Unfortunately, after so many months inside, he is disoriented. To make matters worse, he loses a fight. He befriends Millie, a neighborhood cat who's interested in forest life. He teaches her to hunt and fight, all while improving his own dormant skills. Finally, he and Millie set out into the wild. Fans of the "Warrior" series (HarperCollins) will be happy to see this adaptation. The "manga inspired" artwork and panels work well with the story. The format allows Graystripe's imagination and emotions to be expressed. This slim first volume is mainly exposition and ends just as the action is picking up, leaving readers unsatisfied. Hopefully, volume two is on its way.-Sadie Mattox, DeKalb County Public Library, Decatur, GA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.