Xxxholic by CLAMP

 

Image source: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228063.xxxHolic_Vol_1?from_search=true

Okay, first let me get the title out of the way. This is NOT a story about a sex addict. Xxx, while often referring to x rated material in Western culture, is referring to a variable. As in "blank"holic - alcoholic, computerholic, mangaholic etc. Alright, now, let's move on.

Xxxholic comes recommended from me if you're a fan of manga/anime (particularly if you grew up watching Cardcaptor Sakura), as well as fans of folklore and Japanese culture. If you love stories about spirits, mystery, and adventure, definitely give holic a try. I'd also argue that there are parallels between Harry Potter and holic; the lead character is special in some mysterious way, he saves the day with kindness, courage and magical abilities, and he does it with the help of a male and female companion. Of course, his mentor is a lot younger, female and an alcoholic... But anyway.

It follows the story of Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student who has the ability to see spirits. He accidentally finds his way into a shop owned by Yuko - a space-time witch. The shop grants wishes, but only for a price which is carefully calculated and collected by Yuko. Watanuki ends up working for Yuko and encounters all manner of situations both human and paranormal.

With the help of his friend/rival Domeki and his crush, Himawari, Watanuki begins to learn more about himself, his relationships with the people around him, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his very existence.

I mention Cardcaptor Sakura because Xxxholic has references to various other manga series written by CLAMP, including Cardcaptor. The plot is intertwined with Tsubasa (which features a Sakura from an alternate reality), but this doesn't cause any problems. Every volume contains explanations for anything you may need to know as well as cultural information that might benefit the reader's understanding. Personally, I had never read anything else by CLAMP and still loved Xxxholic.

The art is detailed, elegant and stylized. The characters are entertaining and loveable. The plot is twisted, magical and mysterious. Of course, if you'd rather, you can always check out the first season of the anime adaptation on Netflix instead.

15 days until Christmas!