"I Saw It" is a manga by Keiji Nakazawa, originally published in 1972. The narrative is a semi-autobiographical account of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, seen through the eyes of a young boy named Nakaoka. The story begins in the summer of 1945, with Nakaoka and his family living in Hiroshima. The city is under constant threat of air raids, and the family struggles with the hardships of wartime Japan, including food shortages and the absence of Nakaoka’s father, who is away serving in the military.

On the morning of August 6, 1945, Nakaoka witnesses the detonation of the atomic bomb. The explosion devastates the city, killing tens of thousands instantly and leaving countless others injured or dying. Nakaoka survives the initial blast but is separated from his family. He wanders through the ruins of Hiroshima, encountering scenes of unimaginable destruction and suffering. The narrative vividly depicts the chaos and horror of the aftermath, including the widespread burns, radiation sickness, and the desperate search for loved ones.

Nakaoka eventually reunites with his mother and younger siblings, but their relief is short-lived. His father returns home, severely injured and suffering from radiation poisoning. The family struggles to survive in the devastated city, facing ongoing health issues, societal stigma, and the psychological trauma of the bombing. The story also touches on the broader social and political context of post-war Japan, including the occupation by Allied forces and the slow process of rebuilding.

The manga is notable for its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of nuclear warfare. It combines personal tragedy with historical events, offering a poignant and harrowing account of one of the darkest moments in modern history. The characters, particularly Nakaoka and his family, are depicted with a raw authenticity that underscores the emotional and physical toll of the bombing. The narrative does not shy away from the graphic realities of the event, making it a powerful and sobering read.