Somali & the Forest Spirit Vol. 1 is a hauntingly beautiful journey wrapped in quiet sorrow and gentle wonder. It’s the kind of story that whispers rather than shouts, drawing you into a world where humans are nearly extinct, and magical creatures roam freely. But at its heart, it’s about something deeply human—family, love, and the fleeting nature of time.
The story begins when a golem, a stoic guardian of the forest, finds a lost little human girl named Somali. In a world where humans are hunted or enslaved, her survival is a miracle. And rather than turning her in or abandoning her, the golem chooses to become her protector, her father figure. Together, they set off on a journey to find other humans—if any still exist. What unfolds is part road trip, part slow-burning tragedy, and part emotional gut punch in the softest possible way.
Somali is a burst of sunshine. Innocent, curious, full of love and energy—she clings to the golem with childlike devotion, calling him “Dad” and trusting him completely. The contrast between her vibrant spirit and the golem’s emotionless, logical demeanor creates a dynamic that’s both adorable and deeply moving. The golem begins the journey with no real emotions, but the more time he spends with Somali, the more he starts to change—quietly, almost imperceptibly. And that’s what makes it so effective. It’s not dramatic. It’s honest.
This volume builds its world with care. We’re introduced to various non-human species, each with their own cultures and perspectives. Some are kind, others dangerous. It’s a reminder that even in fantasy, the world is complicated. There are no easy answers, no guaranteed safety. Every stop on Somali and the golem’s journey feels like stepping into a vivid, painterly dream—lush forests, whimsical villages, and quiet moments under starry skies. The art is nothing short of breathtaking. Every panel feels like it belongs in a watercolor picture book. It’s delicate and expressive, amplifying both the sweetness and the sadness of the story.
What really hit me while reading this is the looming presence of time. The golem has a limited lifespan. He knows it. He’s counting down the days. And Somali doesn’t. She just wants to stay by his side forever. That gap—between his fading time and her boundless need—is where the story quietly breaks your heart. It’s not just about the journey. It’s about what happens before goodbye. About how we love and protect even when we know we can’t stay.
There’s also this sense of purity in their relationship. It’s rare to see a story focus so deeply on the bond between a father and daughter, especially in a fantasy setting like this. There’s no romance, no action-packed agenda—just care, vulnerability, and the desire to keep someone safe in a world that’s anything but.
I absolutely loved reading this volume. It left me with a bittersweet ache and a warm smile—because even though I know this story is going to hurt, I also know it’s going to be beautiful every step of the way. Somali & the Forest Spirit is a quiet masterpiece in the making, and I can’t wait to continue the journey. Volume 2, I’m coming for you—with tissues in hand.
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