365 Days of Manga, Day 150: Otogi Matsuri: Dark Offering

OTOGI MATSURI: DARK OFFERING (Otogi Matsuri, “Fairy/Monster Festival”) (おとぎ祭り) • Junya Inoue • CPM (2007-2008 (canceled)) • Wani Books (Comic Gum, 2002-2008) • 2 volumes, canceled (12 volumes in Japan) • Seinen Horror Action • 16+ (graphic violence)
Yosuke, a high school student in rural Miyakono city, accidentally knocks over a shrine and is chosen by the phoenix god Suzaku, blessed–or cursed–with the power to see and fight evil spirits from Japanese mythology. Soon, armed with the “bow of Suzaku,” Yosuke and his allies–cute Shinto priestess Yomogi and arrogant young teacher Ryuuichi–must fight hideous monsters who pass through walls and prey gruesomely on human beings. The stock monster-fighting formula is played straight but played well, with realistic action-horror artwork and weird creatures. Unfortunately, the English edition was marred by serious moiré patterns, then permanently canceled due to the publisher’s bankruptcy.

Today’s winner is Heather W. of Nevada! Congratulations, Heather!