Manga Worth Reading

Out tomorrow is the latest Viz Kids manga, Fluffy, Fluffy Cinnamoroll, so named for the title dog, whose tail curls up like a cinnamon bun. He’s a Sanrio character (like Hello Kitty), albeit a lesser-known one in America.

Youngsters will enjoy the variety of cute puppy characters. In addition to Cinnamoroll (who can also fly, since he’s the child of a cloud — and if that kind of ridiculous, disconnected drop-in bothers you, this isn’t the book for you), there’s Mocha, Cappuccino, Chiffon, Espresso, and the baby Milk. They hang out at a cafe and a nearby park, with a magic tree that can grow toys and bugs.

It’s silly, but kids should appreciate learning all the characters and their personalities, while older readers will find the cast somewhat interchangeable. The simple art style, while not resembling what most people think of as dogs, makes the puppies seem easy to copy by young hands. The opening color section is the most attractive part of the book, although Cinnamoroll has plenty of adventures throughout: coming to Earth, making friends, rescuing puppy Milk, and capturing a flying guitar that makes inanimate objects talk.

That’s only the first half of the book. Overall, there’s no logic here, just unbridled imagination. I don’t understand the appeal, but I’m not under 12. (The publisher provided a review copy.)

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