4 stars - It was really good

This picks up right where the previous volume left off. Momo and Okarun fight the Acrobatic Silky spirit and rescue Aira. This fight was interesting and sad. The way this spirit was created was heartbreaking and I like that we are seeing why spirits are created now. 

After that we have another battle with the aliens and another cryptid. So far this battle has been very interesting because of the environment and Aira being included in the battle. It will be interesting to see how the group deals with the aliens and cryptids. Also the romance elements of this series is starting to ramp up and I am still really enjoying the will they/won’t they dynamic going on. 

TW: suicide; sex work; child abduction; 

 

This volume ties up the Acrobatic Silky arc in one of the most emotional moments of the entire series and begins the Serpos Return arc that is one of the more ridiculous and fun arcs of the early volumes, if you’ve loved Dandadan so far, this will probably be a favourite. 

 I’m giving this book a higher rating because this is where the series hits its regular stride. The pattern of plot has been established. Plus the addition of a new regular character adds some fun dynamics to the group. Some might accuse it of falling into the familiar trope of harem manga with every female character seemingly falling for the main male character inexplicably but I’d argue against that because the reasons feel genuine and heartfelt rather rather than a forced trope. And that’s one of the great strengths of this series: amidst all the wacky adventures and bizarre side characters and villains, the human relationships are so realistic and echo actual modern teenagers in a much more honest way than a lot of media. It also specifically undermines a number of other tropes so that tells me that this one is no accident either.

The creativity, art and comedic moments do not disappoint — i only wish I knew what song the Mantis guy is singing.

Damn I was not expecting the emotional damage that was the Acrobatic Silky’s backstory 😭. I also LOVE Momo and Okarun’s dynamic more and more with each volume. That being said I could definitely do without Aira and I hope she doesn’t become a main character in the story, especially if her only purpose is to come in between Momo and Okarun.

'Dandadan' continues to be a fun ride in Volume 3. We are getting further character development while keeping up the wild plot and fast paced action. This volume delves further into Aira's backstory as the story begins to fleshout background characters. Excited to see how this story continues to unfold.