Danica Davidson
January 7, 2022 
Rozi is a little girl with enormous hair and eyes who lives with her own unique family in the labyrinth. The labyrinth is a mysterious maze of a world where former humans have gotten lost and a mystical queen rules over all. Rozi is taken care of by Chemin, a man with cat ears and a tail; and also Mur, who is sometimes a kid and sometimes an adult; and Kay, who is more than 100 years old. In the beginning Chemin takes Rozi to ask permission from the night panther to share his stars so they can use the star shards in their lanterns for light. This unique, beautiful and interesting scene sets the stage for the rest of the first volume.
A lot has yet to be explained, but that’s part of the appeal. This feels like a story made out of myth. Rozi soon falls through an empty picture frame and winds up somewhere else. She also meets a witch who tries to frighten her, but Rozi isn’t easily frightened. Rozi wants to explore the labyrinth, but this is dangerous, as time and place can warp and what remains of people can get lost.
And it’s easy to get lost in this story of atmosphere and whimsy. It also helps that the artwork is just gorgeous. Whether it’s the details of the architecture, a store full of crystals and other curious knickknacks, or the half-human, half-otherworldly creatures in the labyrinth, it’s all brought to life with breathtaking beauty and finesse.
Each character has a unique personality, and there are moments of humor. While there is some technically scary imagery, Rozi doesn’t get scared, and it’s not trying to scare the reader, either. In fact, the whole read feels dreamlike and relaxing. The unusual little family is also very sweet, and the characters care about one another. While there are some brief hints at some of the characters’ pasts, it’s still pretty unknown who Rozi is and where she came from.
A thoroughly enjoyable, magical manga.
Story & Art: Shiya Totsuki
Publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment
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Danica Davidson is the author of the bestselling Manga Art for Beginners with artist Melanie Westin, and its sequel, Manga Art for Intermediates, with professional Japanese mangaka Rena Saiya. Check out her other comics and books at www.danicadavidson.com.
