Tower of the Future

(CMX, 2005-2007)
™ and © 1994 Saki Hiwatari

For years, the biggest problem in Takeru’s young life was getting into an exclusive high school, but he would much rather spend his time creating stories of dashing warriors and heroic exploits than studying. The beautiful girl he sees at the school open house might be just the motivation he needs to become a model student, though. And then his mother is killed in a car crash, leading to the revelation of a deep family secret. With his world shattered, can Takeru possibly fulfill his mother’s dying wish?

— Lori Witkop

From the Comics Buyer’s Guide:

Takeru is a fairly normal Japanese high-school student more interested in fantasy role-playing games and his lack of a love life than school. But his dreams of creating his own manga are derailed when his mother is hurt in a car accident and, on her deathbed, reveals a family secret: He has a half-French half-sister named Hyoju.

Even though she’s the product of a relationship before his parents’ marriage, Takeru’s first reactions are anger and petulance at his father. But his fantasy life gives him the courage to accept his mother’s dying wish: that his half-sister be allowed to live with them in Japan.

So far, though, readers are given no hint as to why Hyoju would want to give up everything she’s ever known to live with family she’s never met—especially since she’s sure to experience culture shock and, being bi-racial, trouble fitting in. Though the premise is pure high-concept soap opera, it’s certainly pretty enough, and the family conflicts as presented are realistic enough to make the audience want to read Vol. 2.

— S. A. Bennett

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Notes

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Artist

#7

Cover Price: $9.99
1 copy available for $29.95

Saki Hiwatari