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 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, 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.