“In a world where fairies are caught and sold to the highest bidder, humans aren't exactly on friendly terms with the fae folk. But friendship is exactly what Anne Halford seeks with Challe, her new fairy bodyguard, though he's not so keen on the idea. As his master, Anne tasks him with escorting her through a particularly dangerous area, but with a reluctant fairy bodyguard eager to escape a life of servitude, she'll have to deal with a lot more than she bargained for…” (Yen Press)
Approaching manga series based on a light novel is always a bit of a challenge and one that I personally always approach with a degree of trepidation. For every great LN to manga adaptation, there seem to be several that feel like they are missing key elements or don't capture the narrative flow one could envision if they opted to read the source instead. “Sugar Apple Fairy Tale”, thankfully, excels on its own by crafting a fantasy world that is equal parts charming and tragic.
Fantasy titles related to different jobs outside of adventuring are an interesting sub-genre, and “Sugar Apple Fairy Tale” deals with ‘candy-crafter' whose confectionery creations afford them prestige across the kingdom. Approaching a work from this angle and presenting a challenge to one notable crafter creates a ‘sweet' story that is comfortably indulging in the adorable concept of candy-based magic while injecting dramatic elements. Moreover, the series explores the rights, or lack thereof, of demi-humans who are treated as indentured servants. This inclusion makes Anne's kindness towards Challe stand out among her peers and will endear the reader to the young girl's plight. Ultimately, these elements are all explored with deserved attention, ensuring nothing feels lost in translation from the source or rushed.
Check this interview with cartoonist Ken Niimura
However, that is not to say that the inaugural release is perfect as there is a sense of uncertainty as to the overall direction. The series is, undeniably, fantasy oriented, but it proves difficult to pinpoint the focus leading into the next volume and whether it will focus on the relationships Anne has created, the art and fierce competition of ‘candy-crafting', or something else altogether. Volume one pulls the reader into the world of “Sugar Apple Fairy Tale” with confidence, but it is uncertain as to where the series could give a reason to approach with trepidation for those coming here for the first time.
Visually, the direction of the book proves to be serviceable with YozoranoUdon proving capable of conveying fantasy elements from the character's fashion to the magic they wield. YosoranoUdon also manages to inject personality into the characters, particularly into the demi-humans who all have their own unique eccentricities. However, the visuals do not excel in any instance beyond the odd panel where YozoranoUdon utilizes a slightly experimental approach to explore folklore within. Thankfully, Yen Press provides additional content in the way of an adorable short story from the author, which gives readers an idea of the narrative style of Miri Mikawa and how well the manga fits that tone.
“Sugar Apple Fairy Tale” is a competent adaptation, yet at the same time, it does little to stand out as a unique manga unto itself, especially lacking a sense of direction in the inaugural release. Regardless, it is certainly worth sticking around to see how the story developed and the world of ‘candy-crafting' is an intriguing angle for exploring a fantasy world. If you prefer to give the light novel a go, it is also available through Yen Press.
