Codename : Sailor V was originally written as a one shot in the summer season issue of RunRun by Naoko Takeuchi, most famously known for writing the series ' squeal, Sailor Moon. Shortly after, it began its serial run also in RunRun and was later complied into 3 volumes by Kodansha. As of 2011, Kodansha Comics USA has condensed those 3 volumes into 2 and released both in English.
The Sailor V serial focuses around Minako Aino, your typical Japanese middle schooler. She's somewhat lackadaisical, but is still free spirited and energetic. One day, she encounters a mysterious talking cat named Artemis, who informs her of her powers and what her true purpose on Earth is. In the beginning of the manga, Minako doesn't really take her job as a sailor senshi seriously, but, by the end, she is a true hero. Personally, I loved how this manga develops Minako as a character. I find her to be extremely likable and fun to follow. By the end of the manga, I have to say that Minako is probably my favorite sailor senshi besides Sailor Moon herself.
As for the visuals of the manga, they are absolutely gorgeous. I'm a big fan of 90's manga with clean, thin lines. While the character design is rather simplistic, how Takeuchi draws each characters' expressions just breathes life into them. As an artist myself, I can really appreciate how beautiful each panel is. I hope that one day I can be as talented as Takeuchi-sensei.
Overall, I'd say that it's a wonderful and enjoyable read that any fan of the magical girl genre should have. I suggest to read it before diving into the Sailor Moon series, as it is set before it.
Currently, Codename : Sailor V is licences in English by Kodansha Comics USA and available for purchase.