Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 by Abi Umeda; Children of the Whales, Vol. 2 by Abi Umeda

 Children of the Whales, Vol. 1 by Abi Umeda- 200 pages

This is the first volume of a Manga series that NoveList suggested as a read-alike to a different Manga series I've previously read (I think Battle Angel Alita: Mars Chronicle). I enjoy reading some Manga and I found this to be a good read. Chakuro and most who live on the Mud Whale are "marked." This means that they can use Thymia (which means that they can move things with their minds). Nearly 500 people live on the Mud Whale, but all who are "marked" don't live beyond 30. Those who are unmarked live to old age and rule over the inhabitants of the Mud Whale via a Committee of Elders. Chakuro is the archivist of the Mud Whale and has hypergraphia (he feels compelled to write things down). The Mud Whale comes near another island in the sea of sand and scouts are sent out to do reconnaissance. Chakuro is among them and he finds a young woman on the island. This young woman changes everything for the inhabitants of the Mud Whale. Again, I found this a good read. 

Children of the Whales, Vol. 2 by Abi Umeda-192 pages

This continues the story of Chakuro and the others who live on the Mud Whale. The Mud Whale is attacked and secrets are revealed. Secrets of the origin of the Mud Whale and why its inhabitants' ancestors were exiled here 93 years ago. The Committee of Elders makes a decision that shocks the survivors of the attack and inspires Chakuro and others to stand up and fight. I found this second volume a good, engaging read, also.