My Little Pony, the Manga. A Day in the Life of Equestria. Vol. 1

My Little Pony, the Manga takes place in the fictional nation of Equestria. The six main characters – Twilight Sparkle (the main protagonist), Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie – are present with several other reoccurring characters added into the mix within each storyline

There are eight interconnected chapters in volume 1, each with a story/adventure that is largely character driven. There is plenty of fantasy here with magic and adventure throughout, with a situation arising that is eventually rectified through various means.

For example, in chapter one, Pinkie looks into a magic mirror and sees a replica of herself in another world. Tempted with a dessert, Pinkie falls into the mirror, finding herself in a parallel world of Zombie ponies. It is only when Dr. Hooves and Derpy arrive in their time machine that Pinky is rescued.

Chapter 2 finds Spike and Twilight frozen in stone due to a spell gone wrong. Pinkie Pie and Princess Celestia go on a tour when she comes to visit but have some fun dressing Spike and Twilight up while frozen, the spell eventually wearing off.

In Chapter 3, Princess Celestia recommends a dignitary (the Smooze) go to Rarity’s boutique. Rarity makes formal wear for “the Smooze” thinking it will help her business, but when it comes to opening up a new branch, it is Discord who assists.

Every page has a title, reflective of the content within. The stories are very imaginative, fun, humorous, lighthearted, but, at times, complex and almost absurd, particularly chapter 8! The book’s audience is definitely geared for younger children, but adults can enjoy it as well. Elements of interpersonal relationships, including friendship, loyalty, support, and kindness, are clearly present

There is a lot happening in the pages which consist of (primarily) four action-filled panels. It is sometimes difficult to see what is going on due to the black, white, and grey shading - if there had been colour, it would be easier to differentiate the characters, background and action taking place. However, the ponies are fairly distinctive, looking almost human at times. In particular, facial expressions of the characters are quite similar, the eyes consistently wide and round, typical of Manga. Emotion is, therefore, not easily discerned unless accompanied by onomotopeia (sounds).

This series is great for those familiar with the original series, and especially for those who are longtime fans and have a real sense of the shows, characters, and overall history of My Little Pony.