This week for Manga Monday I’ve got yet another Quick Review! It’s Hinomaru Zumou by Kawada!

Plot Synopsis: It is a divine ritual, a martial art, a combat sport—it’s sumo!!A “small” new student, Hinomaru Ushio, appears before the weak little sumo club of Oodachi High School! The words “big” and “heavy” are the rules to this sport, which does not fit this newbie any inch, but this guy goes and does what…!?

Plot: The plot of this first chapter was pretty intense, but given that this is serialized in Jump I can’t say I’m too surprised that it was that intense. I enjoyed this first chapter quite a bit, even if there was plenty of stereotypes used.

Characters: Ushio is a pretty interesting lead character, not just because he’s small, but because he takes no crap from anyone. I enjoy seeing such characters, even if they are somewhat stereotypical. Oozeki on the other hand is another stereotype and frankly wasn’t my favorite side character. Hopefully he gets some much needed character development.

Art: This is a Jump publication so the art is excellent as always.

Overall: Giving this the tentative go ahead, the series looks to be pretty interesting and if it keeps the quality as good as this first chapter it should be a hit.

For those who like: Sports, Wrestling, Sumo, Action, Drama, School Life, Great Plot, Excellent Lead Character, Fantastic Artwork.

Not for those who don’t like: Any of the above.