``Mankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. To gain by sacrifice, that is alchemy`s first law of equivalent exchange.`` so sounds the law of equivalent exchange in alchemy, which is the ultimate science (not in any way related to magic, although it may seem to have some of the same traits). Edward Elric is a young boy who lives in a small town called Resembool in the country of Amestris. One day his mother dies and it ends in Edward committing the biggest sin an alchemist can commit: Human transmutation, the act of trying to bring back to life one of those who has died. Although everything seems to be perfect, scientificly speaking. It goes wrong and Edward loses his right arm and left leg, while his brother, Alphonse Elric who`s also in on the project, loses his entire body and ends up with his soul trapped inside a huge metal armor.
The manga basically revolves around the two of them searching for a way to restore their bodies, as well as the secrets they uncover about their country while they search.
Arakawa Hiromu has won many prices for this manga of hers. The manga has also been serialized as an anime of 51 episodes and 1 movie (The Conquerer of Shambala), however the anime plot line differs greatly in plot line as the mangas plot hadn`t gotten very far when the anime was made in late 2003. Also the anime/ manga has been so popular that a second series is in production, this time based on the original plot of the manga. The new ongoing anime will start airing in Japan in April 2009. It is a definite fact that FMA is a must read for manga fans. It is, and has been for several years now, Square Enix`s number 1 bestselling manga.
Notes:
Great ending, not often that you find closure and a good proper ending in Japanese manga. Good build up of story, character development and lots of action.
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