This is one of those classic graphic novels that I didn't know about until someone recommended the anime version. While the movie is different than the graphic novel, both are enjoyable. What I liked about the graphic novel was that it wasn't as serious -- as in there was humor that was not quite in the movie. Tezuka's writing and illustrations are quite clever and easy to follow, as is the storyline. While the ending is tragic (just like the film) the journey to that ending is what matters most. I found the story to be, like the movie, touching in unexpected ways. ( )