This meaty and satisfying conclusion to a beloved series incorporates some dozen subplots. With Jane Austenesque skill, Abouet spins out and then ties up the interlocking dramas of the now-college-aged Aya and her Ivory Coast village-mates. The most disturbing subplot introduces Aya's biology professor who makes a habit of demanding undesired and all-too-biological interactions from his female students. Meanwhile, lovable gay hairdresser Innocent makes new friends in Paris, and Moussa, slacker son of beer magnate Sissoko, runs away from home to find adventures that confound his parents. Ignace's mistress Jeanne, babe-magnet Mamadou, smooth-talking Gregoire, and shy Felicite all have starring roles, as do Aya's BFFs Adjoua and Bintou. The mating dance takes center stage throughout, and Abouet's gleeful tone accompanies serious subtexts about family, responsibility, and loyalty. VERDICT The full "Aya" saga should especially appeal to fans of shojo manga. While earlier volumes have been praised as YA literature, this final volume suits older teens through adults due to its themes of sexual intrigue and assault. As with previous installments, Oubrerie's art triumphs for its color, style, and masterly character depictions
