I really loved this manga, it's so creative, action-packed and fun. I've been wanting to read this series for awhile now and am so happy I finally picked this up!

This includes the first three manga volumes in one book. I would recommend for middle grade and older readers. My 12 year old son has read this as well and loved it too. It's one of those rare manga that will appeal to both kids and adults.

The characters and story are excellent. The illustration is amazing. It was very easy to follow. Characters are introduced at a good pace as well. In addition to that, at the beginning of each book there is a summary of what happened in the previous book and pictures of the characters along with a short description. I love it when mangas do this!

Overall highly recommended. I am definitely planning on continuing this series, it’s just so much fun! ( )

This manga is fabulous and to find it in a 3 for 1 package made it better. ( )

This manga is fabulous and to find it in a 3 for 1 package made it better. ( )

Full metal Alchemist is about two teenage boys Edward Elric and Alphonse Elric the alchemist brothers. The Full metal Alchemist is Edward Elric the boy on the cover you see in the red trench coat. The twist is he is the full metal alchemist instead of the suit of armor in the back his brother. In these books the Elric brothers go on numerous journeys to find the philosopher stone. They need that stone because of the accident that occurred when they were younger trying to bring there mom back to life because she died from illness. The rule is to bring something or someone back to life you
must exchange something of yours. Edward Elric got the name Full metal Alchemist because of what was taken from him and his brother. Eric lost his left arm and right leg and his brother lost his soul. That's why he is in the suit of armor. When Alphonse lost his soul Eric, his brother, put a blood rune on a suit of armor so he would be able to live. The stone they are searching for brings limbs as well as souls back to life.

I really like this book because the author/ illustrator got really creative on the story line and characters. I like how he didn't necessarily use superpowers or magic in this story but he related to science. That's what an alchemist is. In this story they use a fantasy like sorcery yet relate to science for that power to work.I also like the characters it self.All of them have their own unique ability and personality. I also love the little side jokes.Over all this book was great and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. ( )

“Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is Alchemy’s first law of Equivalent Exchange.” The story follows the adventures of the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, as they navigate a world dominated by the science of alchemy. The series itself contests the notion that science is ever an impartial field controlled by fundamental truths, weaving a narrative that celebrates and problematizes the human condition through a very deft handling of action, philosophy, politics, and humor. The first book, collecting volumes 1 through 3, introduces the reader to the world and characters with compelling drama, slapstick humor, and an emotive illustration style that breathes life into the complex world and extended cast of characters. It is only through the very careful interplay between narrative and illustration that Arakawa is able to so adeptly craft an existential story that is suitable for young adults. This series doesn’t shy away from intense themes of war and genocide, the loss of loved ones and dealing with the grief in the aftermath, the responsibility of making bad decisions, retribution, sacrifice and redemption. Recommended for purchase. Ages 12 and up. ( )