This is actually a re-read as I just acquired the 4th and 5th volumes of the series. Gunslinger Girl is definitely a cut above the average manga, perhaps because manga is its original format as opposed to being an adaptation. This first volume is mostly an introduction to the premise of the series - a new covert organization in Italy has been created which pairs handlers with adolescent girls who are part human, part cybernetic. Most of the girls come from tragic circumstances and the installation of the cybernetics has given them new physical abilites. The girls receive training in handling their new bodies and assasination techniques. They also receive "conditioning" through the use of drugs which wipe their previous memories (often making for happier results) and make them more malleable. The focus her is on three of the girls and their handlers (the pairings are called fratello): Henrietta and Guiseppe, Rico and Jean, and Triela and Hilshire. Melancholy in tone but full of action, this series also includes elements of mystery as facts about the girls' pasts and the purpose and structure of the organization are slowly revealed. Previously read September 1, 2007. ( )

A decent "girls with guns" manga with careful artwork and serious themes. Little girls on the brink of death are transformed into cyborg assassins with older male 'handlers'. The manga is broken into several stories, each looking at a specific girl and exploring the strange marriage of innocence and violence that has been created. Not for those who prefer chibi shots and humor, nor those who want mecha or magical girls. Slow moving, but with a good emotional pay off. ( )