Dandadan is a whole lot of manga packed into each chapter and I'm not sure how to explain it without giving away some of the best surprises I experienced when reading the chapters in volume 1. I had to view this ARC on a bigger screen because viewing it on my phone felt like I was doing it a disservice. The art is like a workout for the eyes, in the best way. The storyline is also a mix of scifi and supernatural local urban legends mashed together, also in the best way. Those looking for a relaxing uplifting read should probably look elsewhere, but if you need an action packed read, Dandadan. Do mind the content warnings and rating --- I wouldn't put this in the children's section. (I received a free ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.)

The art of Dandadan is fantastic. The first volume opens with tough girl, Ayase, protecting nerd, Takakura. He challenges her beliefs in spirits, as she challenges his belief in aliens. The vibe is akin to Mob Psycho including a bowl-cut haircut sporting main character along with a mixture of antics, humor, and ghosts. However, this is Mob Psycho's raunchy cousin. There is a scene that looks to be a dire one for our heroine; however, worlds clashed and she is saved (and the scene is humorous as well with an elderly ghost begging to "gobble one's schlong" and aliens bent on taking one's "banana organ.") There are vulnerable moments as well, revealing Ayase's childhood trauma. Perhaps amid the chaos of controlling a curse (and the ghosts and aliens,) romance could be in the air too.

I love Dandadan, but I won't be buying it for my high school library. That said, it's a wild and wacky ride that's worth taking for adult readers.