Nothing can be gained without an exchange of something of equivalent value. In alchemy, it is an important law known as the Principal of Equivalent Trade. Unfortunately, sometimes the true value of something is more than what one would originally anticipate.

For the Elric brothers, it nearly cost them their lives.

Despite knowing that it was a forbidden practice in alchemy, Edward and Alphonse Elric attempted to bring their mother back from the dead. They had failed, and the result had cost Alphonse his entire body, and Edward, his left leg. Not wanting to lose his brother as well, Edward sacrificed his right arm in exchange for Alphonse's soul, which he bound to a suit of armor.

Their hardships have just begun, as now they travel in search of the legendary object that can restore their bodies - the Philosopher's Stone. Their leads take them far across the land, and there seems no end to the amount of trouble they find themselves up against. From fake diabolical priests with crazy plans to create an army of loyal fanatical followers in the name of a so-called god, to corrupted government officials and psychotic mercenaries. Yet they are but obstacles to be overcome, and all are pawns in an even greater game that the Elric brothers themselves are not yet aware of.

Their main goal is set, their focus unwavering as they will do whatever it takes to make things right. Their reputation precedes them wherever they go, namely that of Edward Elric, the child prodigy that received the title of State Alchemist at the age of 12. Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist.

To brush off the manga that inspired the anime series would be a mistake. Those familiar with the anime would recognize the first several stories presented in this volume and although there are quite a few differences from book and animation, the stories are presented intact and just as amusing, if not moreso.

Although the art might seem rough at a glance, it's quite well done and detailed, and focuses on the important aspects of the visual story; the characters. Edward Elric is even more conniving (one might even say 'evil!') and spunky in the manga than his anime counterpart, and even his brother Alphonse is not so innocent as one would think, though he still takes on the role as the voice of reason between the two.

Viz has done an excellent job in maintaining the personalities of the characters and the presentation of the story so far, and the following volumes are much anticipated. Such is the principal of equivalent exchange!