Given by Natsuki Kizu

Disclaimer: Some audiences may need to seek parental approval before reading.

OVERVIEW:

The overview for this graphic novel, or Manga, from Japan, is quite simplistic and sets the scene perfectly for the overarching plot of the series. Simply put, this is the story of Ritsuka Uenoyama, who is bored with life, including playing his guitar. One day, while he is sleeping in his favorite hiding spot during school, a stranger approaches, cradling a broken guitar. At first, Uenoyama is annoyed and dismissive of Mafuyu Sato and his odd behavior. But, despite his best efforts, he begins a friendship with him, resulting in Uenoyama requesting Sato sing for him. What comes next stirs something in Uenoyama he wasn't aware of.

WHAT I LOVED:

At the point I picked up this series, it had an anime and a cult following. Typically, when books are extremely hyped, they fall short of all the praise and glory bestowed upon it. My initial reaction to Volume 1 of the series is that it was unexpectedly good. At the surface level, it's a story about a band of young men who enjoy each other's company, writing music, and just trying to make it through life. A typical slice of life with a different focus. But beneath the story's surface are themes of self-hate, uncertainty, loss, and hope. Uenoyama and Sato are linked through music, but ultimately, through the unpredictability of their place in the world. Through music, the band explores who they are, what life has to offer, and whether or not they are worthy of the things they dream of.

Between the realistic dialogue, beautiful artwork, and neatly woven realistic details, this story breaths life into you and pulls you in in a way that most novels lack. And, by the time you get to the end of Volume 1, you are thirsty to discover what happens next. To the point that, if you are like me, you are on Amazon or some other book site, trying to figure out how to get the next volume as soon as possible.

WHAT I DISLIKED:

There are moments when the story becomes confusing to follow, and the relationships do not seem realistic in the moment. It does rely heavily on themes of suicide and depression without really resolving those issues by the end of Volume 1, nor does it seem to ever get to the point of resolution by the end of the series. While it tackles heavy themes and does so almost accidentally, most of the plot seems unnecessary or background noise. There are two main characters, three supporting characters, and several background characters, which makes keeping everything straight past the main five incredibly difficult.

OVERALL RATING: 3.5 out of 5