To focus on my new writing project this week, I took a break from my pursuit to learn Japanese. I feel extremely guilty because I only learn one character a week, but I have over 11k words to show for my writing perseverance instead!
If only learning another language was as easy as writing a novel. :\
Kana-a-Week will return next week!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Saturday, May 5, 2012
I Am Here! 1-2
Japanese Title: Ko Ko Ni Iru Yo
Author: Ema Toyama
Volume(s) Reviewed: 1, 2 (complete series)
Publisher: Kodansha/Del Rey
Genre: Manga; Contemporary Romance
Rated: Middle Grade (bullying)
Summary: Invisible to her classmates, Hikage Sumino is an eighth grader with no self-esteem. Her only friends are the visitors to her Internet blog. One day, the most popular boy in the grade suddenly talks to her. Encouraged by this twist of fate, Hikage determines to transform her life. But after the sudden disappearance of the encouraging "Black Rabbit" from her blog, a series of surprises shake up Hikage's world. What if someone you met online turned out to be someone you knew in real life? Hikage, Hinata, and Teru must overcome jealousy and betrayal, and together learn valuable lessons about friendship, love, and forgiveness.
Art: Cute and sweet.
Story: I could relate to an "invisible" girl, so the story touched me. It's a simple plot, but a strong one that I really got into. Ema did a good job with the Hikage-Hinata-Teru triangle, and the conclusion was satisfying and uplifting.
Characters: I adored Sumino - my heart went out to her, and I really cared what happened to her. The best friend yet completely opposite boys, Hinata and Teru, are cute and likeable, and it was easy to root for both to the end. Even the "background" characters had fun personalities. Ema did an excellent job.
Comments: I expected this to be just another fluff manga, and was pleasantly surprised to find loveable characters and a heartwarming depth to such a simple and common story. Will definitely read again.
Favorite Bit(s): (1) Sumino's hair looks like she has ears! XD; (2) The volumes are extra-thick, so I didn't feel like one sitting and it was gone; and (3) Mahimahi :).
Recommend?: Highly.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)