Looking for a sports manga that’s just a little different? The new Viz Manga release The Climber takes readers into the world of solo climbing. What starts as a dare issued by a new classmate soon turns into an obsession for loner Buntaro Mori. First he climbs the school; then he challenges a local cliff face. To keep him safe and encourage his talents, his teachers rope him into a climbing club. The people around Mori recognize his innate talent for climbing, but this is counteracted by lingering grief from a tragedy in his past.

The Climber is based on Jiro Nitta’s 1973 two-volume novel of the same name, bringing the story into the present day. Even if you know nothing about solo climbing, this manga will teach you—mainly so you can appreciate how off the wall Mori is being. This first volume includes over 400 pages of the manga, giving readers a big first step into its compelling story and hard-hitting art.

I know nothing about rock climbing. I have no interest in rock climbing. Neither of those things matter, because this book had me locked in from page 1. It's a great story with good action and art. The characters are well-written and the dialog is realistic. Mori is very relatable and I can't wait to learn more about him. I highly recommend this book.

This title has been requested in our store for over a year now, so I'm thrilled that it is finally getting an English release. The subject matter of rock and mountain climbing is fascinating, and it's great to see another sport represented in such an exciting manga. Previously I had read and enjoyed #DRCL by the artist Shinichi Sakamoto, so I'm happy to experience one of his earlier works. You can feel the heart he put into The Climber, and I will definitely be handselling this title.

I'm so glad this beautiful manga is finally getting an official English release. The thought-provoking context of the material paired with the otherworldly beauty of the incomparable Shin-ichi Sakamoto's art makes for a series that is close to perfect. I will absolutely be handselling this title, and I can't wait for US manga readers to get their hands on it.

Having read Shinichi Sakamoto's other work "Innocent", I was excited to see another manga series by him, and "The Climber" did not disappoint! Mori Buntarou is a loner in high school, who after an incident, discovers a love of climbing and the adrenaline and views that come with it. Rock Climbing and mountain climbing have always made an impression on me with the strength needed and the risks involved, but reading this volume gave me an idea of how it is so loved by those who do it. The art and emotions seen within are amazing, and I cannot wait to continue reading this series.