Author: Amy Kim Kibuishi
Publisher: Scholastic
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Tabby Simon is determined to learn what happened to her father, who was found dead after researching a tree that leaks a mysterious mist in her neighborhood. She is unexpectedly led to Rema, a distant world of magic and beauty that is periodically invaded by a nearby planet desperate for resources. While Tabby searches for the truth surrounding her father's death, she meets a handsome blue-haired boy named Philip. He has his own dangerous secrets, but he has promised to help Tabby get home. As Tabby learns more about the strange world she's in, she discovers that she is destined for something far greater than she ever could have imagined.
Recommended Age: 10+ (Scholastic)
Content Advisory:
Depicted: Violence
Mentioned: Death of a Parent
Tags:
Portal Fantasy, Female Protagonist, Former Webcomic, Forbidden Magic, Magic Based Discrimination
Review
This is a strange comic to review for me, because while I don’t have many memories of the webcomic version of Rema published in the mid-2000s I do remember diligently following it along with many other webcomics - such as Phoenix Requiem, Bymstone, Honeydew Syndrome, and Earthsong. However, I must recognise that for many people - especially in the target demographic of early teens - this will probably be their first time entering into the world of Rema. So while I’m excited to finally see this series in publication - hopefully to its conclusion - I will try and keep my nostalgia filled comparisons at bay.
Rema follows Tabby Simon as she is determined to figure out why her father died and his obsession with the mysterious Rema. While investigating the mysterious tree he was found dead near, she happens upon Keeper Phillip, a keeper or protector of the balance between worlds, and follows him back to Rema. Trapped in this other world Tabby and Phillip must team up in order to get her home. However, Phillip is keeping a dangerous secret of his own.
Like many first volumes, Rema thrusts you into its world at a brisk pace, serving both as an introduction to its world and its character, while still managing to deliver a complete story arc. It is not a volume without its flaws, but they are overshadowed by the sheer wonder of the world and two compelling lead protagonists.
Tabby is not without her own faults, but she is a inquisitive and bright young girl filled with determination. While the world of Rema is unfamiliar to her she is determined to unlock its secrets, as well as find a way home. Together with Phillip they make a pair that is equal parts brain and muscles.
Phillip does tend to act as an expositional character, familiarising the viewer and Tabby with the intricies of Rema. However, it is never done in a way that makes the experience clunky to read. And by the end the two are an inseperatable pair working towards a common goal.
Rema is
As first volumes go Rema is a strong contender with a likeable cast and wondrous world to explore. And I sincerely hope that Amy Kim Kibuishi is able to finish the series through Scholastic.
I will also note, but not write long about it as it would do a disservice to both creators, that if you thought Amy Kim’s last name was familiar it is because she is the wife of Kazu Kibuishi creator of the Amulet series. Both Amy Kim Kibuishi (née Ganter) and Kazu have very similar, but uniquely different art styles, and have been publishing comics for about as long. Amy’s previous works (alongside versions of Rema) include Sorcerers & Secretaries, contributions to the Flight Anthology, and The Hopeless Romantic and the Hapless Girl - most of which are out of print nowadays. If you or a young person are a fan of Amulet, Rema is a perfect companion to it - though it has much more of a shōjo feel to it.