About Kodaka Kazuma!

THE ARTIST
If you're visiting the Gakuen, then the name Kodaka Kazuma is probably at least vaguely familiar. Kizuna was one of the very first Boy's Love manga that I read, and it remains one of the most popular Ladies' series in publication. Kodaka-sensei has the name recognition and draw to do pretty much whatever she wants. Interestingly enough, she's used her powerhouse status to publish far tamer works than her early career.

All artists' styles evolve with time and experience; Kodaka-sensei is a textbook example of this. Her art is nearly unrecognizable from the first volume of Kizuna to the second, and the change over the course of a decade is dramatic to say the least. She still has a soft spot for yakuza stories, but her rich characterizations are always the biggest draw to her manga series no matter what the subject matter. Her stories are down to earth, funny, and can be very sweet, not to mention addictive.

Kodaka-sensei is an equally active doujinshika, publishing works with her circle the K2 Company. She has worked with Matoh Sanami (Fake) and Koide Mieko (Houkago no Shokuinshitsu) and their combined efforts can be found in a number of forms.

For more on Kodaka Kazuma, check out her Japanese HP at:
http://k2c.pinky.ne.jp/



THE WORKS
What follows is a brief list of the Kodaka Kazuma works I have read, or at least am familiar with. For any further information or questions, feel free to e-mail me.


"Kizuna"
Biblos, Volumes I-IX
Her signature work, Kizuna follows the relationship of Ranmaru (injured Kendo star) and Enjouji (illegitimate son of a yakuza boss). Add in Enjouji's half-brother Kai, the bratty bon (young master) of the yakuza family, and Masa, the stoic junior boss of said family. Their interaction is memorable and charming, even when they're arguing. The stories range from dark, serious, and even violent arcs to light-hearted romantic comedy. I'm still not sure how she does it...

"Kusatta Kyoushi no Houteishiki"
Biblos, Volumes 1-10
Kodaka-sensei truly shows off her humor in this series, which has to be the greatest romantic comedy I've read. Mistaken identities, long-lost childhood loves, an over-excitable father, the cross-dressing staff of a gay bar, and Norwegians all combine in a school setting under the tutelage of some of the oddest teachers in the business. Must be read to be understood, but so worthwhile.

"Kimera"
Biblos, Volumes 1-2
Leave it to ADV Films to try and pass this series off as a shounen. Kimera is an interesting sci-fi piece involving aliens and Evil Government Agencies, revolving around a beautiful transgendered creature and the poor guy who falls for... it. Lots of action and gore, but at its base still very Kodaka-sensei.

"Not Ready!? Sensei"
Biblos
A manga about manga. What could be better? Actually, it focuses on a manga author, his highly possessive boyfriend, and the manga author's new assistant. A recipe for trouble, there. It's definitely a comedy, but the story is very honest and sweet as well.

"Sebiro no Housekeeper"
Biblos, Volumes 1-2
I haven't read this one, but I've been led to understand it's about housecleaning. And sex. And then more cleaning, followed by more sex. I'm rather inclined to believe it, too...

"Mezase Hero!"
Biblos
The story of an ambitious and earnest rookie detective and the strange department he finds himself placed in. Funny, funny, funny, though it's a bit serious when it comes to the real cases, and don't let the "Super BBC" label concern you, because this series is squeaky-clean and wholly wonderful.
(Volume 1)
Part 1 | Part 2
Part 3 | *NEW* Part 4




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