Following the knowledge, logic, guesswork and touch of luck that
goes into diagnosing a patient is like reading a great detective
story. The mysteries contained within the human body have
fascinated us since the dawn of time. Even today, television shows
like “CSI,” “Bones” and “House”
have taken such a hold on the American imagination that juries in
actual courtrooms expect to see forensic evidence admitted with
every case. Knowing this, is it any wonder that Black Jack
is one of the most popular manga of all time in Japan?

Black Jack is a brilliant surgeon, able to operate successfully
on a score of patients in a matter of minutes. But due to a series
of conflicts with the medical profession, he remains unlicensed.
Instead, he operates outside the law, remaining one step ahead of
authorities as he moves from one country to another, charging
patients’ exorbitant rates for his services and remaining
cold to their pleas for mercy --- or for a discount. But Black Jack
isn’t heartless; he just operates under his own code of
ethics and fair play. He’ll travel for miles to save a man
who once did him a favor. He’ll give aide to any doctor
prepared to go all-out to save a patient. He’ll cry after a
failed operation. And he always chooses to fight for life rather
than settle for an easy death.

In Black Jack, Tezuka has created an iconic character,
one that has a predictable set of actions and responses but still
manages to surprise the reader. Sometimes harsh, other times moving
or laugh-out-loud funny, each chapter is a complete episode. Many
times the stories are about characters whose lives are touched by
the rogue doctor, and these are often the most memorable. But no
matter who the star of the story is, Black Jack is
thoroughly addicting.

Before becoming a professional cartoonist, Osamu Tezuka studied
to become a medical doctor, and it’s easy to see that he had
a ball putting his training to use on the page. The scenes in the
operating room are as graphic as what you’ll find on
primetime television, and some of the plots are just as outlandish.
But Tezuka’s tongue is firmly planted in cheek as he takes
his antihero up and over the top, and he keeps the reader engaged
for the whole ride.

Vertical is releasing the Black Jack stories in the
order Tezuka set out before he died, and they’re great. They
are also beautifully put together, with artful covers and
illustrated inner covers. This may be the only time a gorgeous
package actually hinders sales. These stories are perfect for teens
and adults, but the covers do nothing to attract a teen reader. So,
please, buy these books and read them. Then buy a set for your
favorite teen, male or female, and make them sit and read a story
or two. These stories will become favorites, and you will instantly
be the coolest adult in the room.

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