All You Need Is Kill: 2-in-1 Edition

Gr 9 Up—Based on Sakurazaka's novel, which served as the basis for the science-fiction movie Edge of Tomorrow, this manga was available digitally as two volumes, and is now released in this ominbus print edition. Live, die, repeat. Earth has been invaded by aliens known as Mimics. The fate of humanity rests with the United Defense Force. Suiting up in battle armor called a jacket, soldier Keiji Kiriya prepares to deploy on his first combat assignment, alongside the elite U.S. Special Forces lead by Rita Vrataski. During the battle, Keiji dies. He wakes up to the day before his death, only to go out into battle and die again. His memories intact, Keiji realizes that he is trapped in a time loop where his death is seemingly inevitable, "like hitting the reset button on a video game." To save the human race, Keiji must solve the mysterious connection between himself, Rita, and the Mimics. The writing is compelling as the plot moves between fast-paced military action and reflective, philosophical moments. The tone is intense as characters are pushed to the limits, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Obata's stunning artwork offers textured designs of mechanized suits and weaponry, exciting battle sequences, and expressive human characters. Black-and-white images reflect the pain and brutality of warfare without being gratuitous. The illustrations heighten the dramatic beats of the narrative.