osamu tezuka's -Dororo: review

I think the name ,Astro Boy, is a name that everyone has some familiarity with.
Whether you've actually seen the cartoon show or read the comic book; most people are aware that it relates to the fictional boy robot, that was popular in japan in the 50's to 60's.

Up until 2004, when I became aware of Osamu Tezuka's "Phoenix" series; Astro Boy was about all I knew of him as an artist.
Phoeniz, impressed me in its creative storytelling and world building.
And that is exactly what Tezuka's "Dororo" did!

Vertical Inc. Publishing, is doing everything right in terms of production value for this 3 volume series. The Front cover right away jumps out at you with its medical chart backdrop and floating neon characters decals as well as the hot pink back cover.
I think this story is going to appeal a wider range of fans then the previously mention works.
The story begins with a noble man in feudal Japan offer the body of his soon to be born son to 48 demons ( each taking an eye, limb , ear,etc.) in exchange for being made ruler of the country.

When the child is born it is little more than a slug and left to die in the river.
Fortunately a doctor takes him in and provides the child with artificial eyes, and ears, and prosthetic limbs.
Combined with the supernatural 3rd eye and telepathy, the child grows ; until finally he must leave the nest and hunt down the 48 demons to restore his body.
His, adopted father gives him the parting gift of 2 blades hidden in his prosthetic arms. On his journeys, he is haunted by the spirits of the dead and the god of death; but still he goes on helping people along the way, no matter how ungrateful they may be.
Highly recommended!