This is a transitional piece. The overall story is moving from the Mahorafest arc to the Magical World arc. In the meantime, lots of fun and interesting things happen.
First of all, there is more progress on Asuna's character arc. One of my favorite parts of this omnibus occurs early on, where she has this intriguing and mysterious dream. It's all serious until you turn the page and Asuna walks in on Konko and Setsuna starting a pactio. Mood whiplash for massive comedy.
Her intensive training under Evangeline to better manage Kanka furthers this arc in addition to the level of badass she takes. It has great emotional heft for both of them.
Second, there's the world building. Traveling naturally leads to world building. So far, the story has only spoken of the Magical World. Its society and its laws played a central role in the previous arc and now the story moves to its physical location. Just the connection between the two is interesting, let alone the geography, history, etc. that comes into play once the "Negima Club (temporary name)" arrives there.
Third, there's snippets of what everyone does around the main action such as Asuna's training or the beach vacation that Anya jumps into. These are amusing little diversions like Mana's attempts to get a student-discount for a movie ticket.
Most of all, what I like is the bridging of the gap. These events create a separation between the major arcs to keep them more distinct and provide a breather. It is filled it with meaningful events that develop characters and advance overall plot elements rather than immediate stories. Of course, there is also plenty of comedy. It's only recently that I've come to understand how important this is.
The way in which Ken Akamatsu creates the new story's arc levels is also impressive. It is not rushed but there is no narrative fat either. An immediate goal, a midterm goal and a long-term goal are established in concise terms and then acted upon.
Trickster Eric Novels gives "Negima #7 omnibus" an A+
Click here for my previous book review Chronicles of the Crusades
Brian Wilkerson is a independent novelist, freelance book reviewer, and writing advice blogger. He studied at the University of Minnesota and came away with bachelor degrees in English Literature and History (Classical Mediterranean Period concentration).
His fantasy series, Journey to Chaos, is currently available on Amazon as an ebook or paperback
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