Air Gear, vol. 1

Oh! Great. Air Gear, Vol. 1. 2006. 224p. ISBN 9780345492784. Available in the Graphic Novels section of the library.

Itsuki is the best fighter and the toughest kid at Higashi Junior High School. Never shying away from a fight, Itsuki takes on too much when he wins a bout against a group of Westside punks. Turns out one of them is connected to the Skull Saber Storm Riders, a criminal gang. The Riders move in on Itsuki, beat him, and claim his school as part of their territory.

Meanwhile, Itsuki has it hard at home, where he lives with the four Noyamano sisters, who are stronger, quicker, and tougher than he is. With his life shattered and his reputation in tatters, Itsuki has no hope left. In his darkest hour, however, the Noyamano sisters come to his aid. It turns out they are the Sleeping Forest, an elite group of Air Trekers who easily defeat the Skull Sabers. The Air Treks allow users to feel like they are flying. They can accomplish amazing feats of acrobatics. But with these skates come responsibilities. Can Itsuki meet them?

The story continues in Air Gear, Vol. 2.