Life Lessons From a UFO Catcher

An Autobiographical Manga

Non-Fiction - Memoir
150 Pages
Reviewed on 04/14/2023
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Kenny Loui is a doctor (of philosophy), college professor, and life-long otaku. His hobbies include writing, doodling, stargazing, and binge-watching anime on Crunchyroll. He is the author of "Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher: An Autobiographical Manga," a webtoon/graphic novel series based on his experiences "rescuing" cute and cuddly plushies trapped inside arcade claw machines in South Korea, while capturing important life lessons along the way.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Are you a fan of manga or comic books? If the answer is yes, grab a copy of Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher: An Autobiographical Manga by Kenny Loui, which concerns a young arcade game enthusiast whose mission in life is to free as many plush dolls as possible from captivity. Based on the author’s own escapades, the book follows young Kenny as he sets out to accomplish his mission to rescue all the plushies of the world by playing "UFO Catcher." But there are unexpected hurdles along the way, including a fierce nemesis named Killian, who has a knack for getting into Kenny's path. However, Kenny also has his allies, including Somi, his guardian spirit, and others who share their wise insights at just the right moments when Kenny needs them most.

Gamers and manga lovers will have a blast with Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher. Kenny Loui draws from his own life experiences and brings a sense of intrigue and adventure to arcade games that feels not only authentic and entertaining but also immersive in a way so that you can't help but lose yourself in the pages. The narrative moves at a blistering pace, with each chapter flowing into the next. I loved the dialogue and the artwork by Yamawe. It is reminiscent of the young adult Japanese mangas that I used to read as a kid. The story will entertain you as well as teach you some valuable lessons that you're bound to find helpful in life.

Michaela Gordoni

Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher by Kenny Loui is an artistic autobiography about a guy whose favorite hobby is freeing stuffed animals from their claw machine cages, or UFO catching, as it is commonly known. Told in 13 manga-style anecdotes, it is a fun recount of life lessons learned from time spent at the arcade. From his failed attempts to capture a plushie to his eventual success and the joy he felt, Loui offers valuable insights into the art of persistence and resilience. The book also contains BGM enhancement, which means it has QR codes for readers to scan and listen to specific songs that go with certain sections of the book as you read.

Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher is a delightful manga, even though it has no storyline. Placing specially selected songs to go with different sections of the story is a brilliant idea. I also loved that this was a spin on a manga autobiography. I wish all autobiographies were more like this one! Overall, Kenny Loui gives us a really entertaining read. It is a perfect example of creativity taking flight. Its mixture of manga-style illustrations, quirky anecdotes, and fun music makes it a one-of-a-kind experience. If you are looking for a fun and inspiring book that offers a unique perspective on life, told creatively, then this manga is worth taking a look at.

Kayleigh Perumal

Life Lessons From a UFO Catcher is a captivating autobiographical manga by Kenny Loui. The main character, Kenny, fulfills many roles — as a student, officer, and even a teacher. However, his passion and mission are to free all the stuffed animal toys at Gerry’s Game Zone. Kenny also learns many interesting lessons while playing the UFO Catcher game at the arcade. He is taught how to be cautious, prepared, patient, and to have direction, among other values. An enchanting, protective spirit named Somi helps to guide Kenny and imparts wisdom during his journey. His rival, Killian, is a worthy opponent and provides him with a challenge.

Kenny Loui’s manga is a quirky tale, modeled on his own life and hobbies. The illustrations, done by YAMAWE, are engaging and transcend the page. She has a distinct style that really stands out and accompanies the plot well. By including the use of digital interactional elements, the reader’s intrigue is sustained. For example, the book contains QR codes to songs on YouTube that you can play while reading, creating a unique and immersive narrative experience. However, my favorite part of Life Lessons From a UFO Catcher is unquestionably the dialogue, because it really enables you to understand the characters and their personalities. Somi’s observations and Kenny’s internal monologue are genuinely amusing. I also loved how the manga was structured, with each chapter representing a different episode and moral. Young adults and teenagers who enjoy rich and creative storytelling alongside beautiful art will particularly appreciate this.