It doesn't happen very often, but through enough searching you can eventually find a diamond in the rough, and that is what Magi is to me. It is rare for me to get into a series and not find a "flaw" in it, but that is what Magi is. I have never seen a series before where there are literally no bad characters in it, but Magi is just that. Magi is a unique and mesmerizing experience in an expansive magical world that can be as frightening as it can beautiful. The story flows extremely well for the bulk of the manga with the only questioning areas being early in the story and very brief. Also, despite it seemingly generic and "goody two shoes," themes, the story does an excellent job of surprising the reader by going in the complete opposite direction at the most exciting times. I never once found the story to be boring, lacking, or repetitive. On top of this, Magi, is at no loss for interesting, loveable, and hateable characters (Hating in a good way). There are all different characters with all different personas, goals, methods, and abilities. The development for these characters isn't lacking either, especially in the case of Alibaba. Overall, I'd say the only real problems with the series are some personal problems that others may have with the art. The art can be a little "much" at times. The author enjoys using a very huge lighting effect to symbolize happy emotions, but it can seem a little garish to some. The author's personal artwork may also not be to some peoples' liking. However, if these are the only flaws in the story, then it's strength more than make up for them. Magi has become my all time favorite manga, and I hope that you give it a try.