The brutality of each punch delivered by and to Joe is a masterpiece of art, sprinkled with perfectly drawn serene moments. Characters are also done exquisitely by the ink. Aging with each volume, and not just by a switch of clothes.
Even though it's a story that revolves around the sport of boxing, it's true focus is the heart of the boxers. About every main and supporting character is three-dimensional. No one is simply 'good' or 'evil.' They're human.
Read Ashita no Joe. It has given me a reason to take a chance and better understanding of manga.
