We’re discussing one of Enzo’s favourite manga this episode (Magus of the Library by by Mitsu Izumi) one that he’s shouted out multiple times in the past, and now we get to delve into this dense series and all it has to discuss: racism, sexism, environmentalism, and plenty more topics in a high fantasy setting, about an optimistic young boy who loves the power of stories and sets out on the journey to become a librarian, with all the trials that come with it.

Timecodes:

0:00 Introduction - Enzo’s latest recommendation for Samu to read

4:54 An incredibly dense, dialogue- and idea-heavy fantasy series

6:19 “Too woke” critique - a series heavy on commentary on history and present day

11:16 Theo Fumis - the adorable young book-loving boy who wishes to be a Kafna

15:28 The all-knowing narrator, a story-within-a-story, and the love of storytelling

18:42 The worldbuilding and language influences

23:12 The recurring Fumis surname?

24:36 Spoiler discussion begins

24:43 The role racism plays in Magus of the Library

33:02 Knowledge is power, censorship, and misinformation - does it ever feel too modern?

39:05 Our highlights of the Kafna exam and life as as apprentices

51:27 Sophie Schwimm as a device and a character

55:54 Sedona and the book with no name - is she a mentor? Rival? Villain?

1:01:43 The Third Act (The Liaisons Office) section of the story now

1:07:42 Why hasn’t it gotten an anime yet?

1:10:07 Tei’s character and her importance within the narrative + Aya shoutout

1:12:40 Enzo’s Recommendation: A Bride Story (Otoyomegatari) by Mori Kaoru

1:15:21 Samu’s Recommendation: Yu Yu Hakusho (Chapter Black) by Yoshihiro Togashi

1:16:23 Comparisons to Witch Hat Atelier

1:19:02 Final overview + ratings