Stories about being lost in space are nothing new, but this tale
stands out. Based on the popular anime, it's the story of a group of teenage astronaut cadets who live in a future where a solar flare has destroyed most of Earth. The teens' training takes place in a space station, and the plot starts out like a sci-fi version of Veronica Mars
, bursting with adolescent soap opera drama. But things quickly become dangerous when the space station is destroyed. The kids must make their way across the galaxy to safety in a lifecraft called the Ryvius. Like many lost groups, the cadets promptly divide up into an almost militaristic society. This exciting story is accompanied by simple yet detailed art that helps convey the plot's spirit of jeopardy and exploration. The characters are completely cut off from all adult authority, and as the drama unfolds, there are also some laughs: the characters are typical teenagers with hopes, dreams and misguided romantic notions (one of the funniest scenes occurs when a couple shares their first kiss and their friends videotape it to tease them mercilessly afterwards). This manga has enough captivating elements to become an addictive cult classic. (Dec.)
