beta
It’s paced in a way that feels incredibly realistic. The love-at-first-sight that you often see in romances are a very tired trope (in my opinion), and it’s really nice to read something like this that values friendship and non-romantic bonds even though it is a romance. The feeling that it invokes is a little sad (in a good way), and a little nostalgic. I really like it. 4.5/5
Although it does have elements of what’s typical in this list, it is much more. Realistic exploration of feelings and interpersonal relationships, illustrated in a very dreamy and beautiful way. Not packed with action, but still engaging and dimensional when it comes to thoughts and dialogue. I do get a certain nostalgic sadness throughout that really makes it for me. 5/5
The plot isn’t exactly suited to the list, but it has a wonderful atmosphere that comes across really well with the art and usage of color. It’s beautiful and pays attention to the setting and scenery instead of focusing on characters and dialogue. You really get a sense of context for the story. I love the setting and the way it’s drawn, and I feel like the correlation between summer and youth is depicted really well. 4/5
Truthfully, I’m not a fan of the anthropomorphic genre. The atmosphere is very reminiscent of those long and hot school days before summer break, when you wished you were anywhere but at school (and you now feel fond of). Portrays that uncertainty and awkwardness of romance in a way that suits a kind of “coming of age” theme, which I ultimately find very nostalgic. The anthropomorphic genre is not an impediment (imo) to the very successful development of such themes. 4/5
u can practically hear cicadas while reading this
Koimonogatari