Real Vol. 1 | Takehiko Inoue

Critically acclaimed, award-winning manga artist Takehiko Inoue doesn’t pull any punches in this stunning portrayal of people struggling with serious life issues. Masterfully combining rich character development with beautifully detailed line art, Inoue, the creator of the mega-hit masterpieces Slam Dunk and Vagabond, lifts the manga medium to a completely new level of storytelling.

A motorcycle accident, bone cancer, a speeding truck crashing into a boy on a stolen bicycle—tragic life—changing events turn the worlds of three young men upside down. These three very different personalities have only one thing in common—their passion for basketball.

About the Author

Takehiko Inoue, born on January 12, 1967, is a renowned Japanese manga artist best known for creating the basketball series "Slam Dunk" and the historical manga "Vagabond". Both of these works are among the best-selling manga series in history.

Inoue's career in manga began in 1988 when he won the 35th annual Tezuka Award for his work "Purple Kaede". His breakthrough came with "Slam Dunk," which was serialized from 1990 to 1996 and has sold over 170 million copies worldwide. The manga's popularity led to a surge in basketball interest among Japanese youth, earning Inoue commendation from the Japan Basketball Association1.

Inoue's other notable works include "Buzzer Beater" and "Vagabond," which is currently on hiatus.