Author: Hiromu Arakawa

This review covers volumes 1-6 as I haven’t quite gone through all 27 yet. That will eventually happen, but I have enough of a taste of the series to know where it’s going and why I want to be there.

I was first introduced to the series by my good friend, Matti Silver, who demanded I watch the anime series. Considering I barely have time to watch shows right now, dedicating time to watch an entire series is not going to happen. Hence, I was happy to discover the books in my school library.

First, I will say the series has been incredibly fun to read. Each one only took me an afternoon because I found myself addicted to finding out what happened next, ignoring the demands of daily life while I flipped “just one more page.”

It chronicles the adventures of two brothers who are alchemists, which is a special brand of magic that only dedicated students can master. While the series slowly peels away its origins and how it works, Arakawa has a fully developed system that makes you feel instantly comfortable reading about it.

Through an alchemy spell gone horribly wrong, one of the brothers, Alphonse, was bound to a metal suit of armor. The older brother, Edward, blames himself and is on a quest to return his brother to a physical body.

Along the way, they get wrapped up in an even greater plot that requires their talents. While meant for a younger audience, the themes feel relevant to someone much older.

Given the first six had my full attention, I’ve already dedicated part of my summer to finishing the rest of the series. It’s fun, easy to follow and addictive.