Clamp. Legend of Chun Hyang.

CLAMP. Legend of Chun Hyang. Tokyopop. 222p. illus. 1591827639. $9.99. JS

To say that Chun Hyang, the 14-year-old heroine of The Legend of Chun Hyang, is a strong female character would be an understatement. Employing a martial arts style that would make a whirling dervish proud, she fights the good fight against the corrupt Yang Ban (ruler) of her town. Since it is death to lay hands on the Yang Ban, Chun Hyang contents herself with beating up his guards and wishing that the Am-Hang-Osa, a mysterious official with the power of judge, jury and executioner, will come to her little village. Unfortunately, the only person who does arrive is Mong Ryong, occupation "traveler," whose hobbies include eating, loafing and hiding at the first hint of danger. Wall Mae, Chun Hyang's mother, thinks Mong Ryong a charming young man; Chun Hyang thinks Mong Ryong an oaf, and lets him know that in no uncertain terms. The first story ends when the Yang Ban kidnaps Wall Mae, and orders her to submit to him. Wall Mae stabs herself in the chest to protect her honor, and when Chun Hyang bursts in--a minute too late--Mong Ryong, who of course is the Am-Hang-Osa, authorizes the Yang Ban's immediate execution.

The Legend of Chun Hyang is high-quality manga. The art is excellent and the storylines, which have to do with honor and sacrifice, are simple and moving. Unfortunately, this is a reissue, so no further volumes will be forthcoming (to my knowledge); please note that the storyline does not end with the first volume. The Legend of Chun Hyang contains comic book violence. It is an excellent purchase for libraries with manga collections. George Galuschak, YA Libn., Montvale P.L., Montvale, NJ

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.