When Yuiji accidentally overhears his classmate Yamato confessing to another friend that he's gay, his perspective shifts. Seeing Yamato in a new light, Yuiji does his best not to let prejudice color his view, but he still finds himself overthinking his classmates' interactions now. He especially notices the way Yamato looks at one particular boy: Yuiji's own best friend.
By Tohru Tagura
Series Koimonogatari: Love Stories
Volume 1 of 2
Release Date 21.05.2020
Genre Boys Love
Age Rating 16+
Publisher Tokyo Pop
CW None
Rating ★★★★☆
My Review
When I first started reading the manga, I was a bit put off by the wonky art style. I prefer a different art style- obviously- but the characters looked a bit derpy at times. I tried not to judge it too much, as it's a bit more unique and that's not always negative but it's something you have to get used to. The story makes more then up for it though!
The plot follows Yamato and Yuiji, where the latter finds out Yamato is gay and eventually tells him he "knows". One of the most interesting aspects of this story is the portrayal of Yamato's struggle with his identity. One theme that stands out is his yearning for a deep, meaningful male friendship. At first, I found it a bit odd, since he has a close, supportive female friend—why is this friendship so essential to him? Isn't it possible to have that friend and still feel fulfilled?
But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that this friendship is not about quantity but quality. It's about finding that one person who can understand and relate to his struggles on a deeper level. Perhaps it's a cultural difference, or just wanting to "belong" and not be judged. There's so many reasons and so many questions, which you experience through Yamato but also through Yuiji, who seems to have his own struggles with what it means to be in a relationship or in love.
One of the most refreshing aspects is how supporting Yuiji is towards Yamato- he gives good advice but also listens and really supports. This makes the story way more realistic and interesting.
Lastly, the pacing. It IS a slow burn, which I don't mind at all. The slow burn allows the characters to develop naturally, and their relationships to grow organically. Koimonogatari: Love Stories is a manga that doesn't shy away from the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of finding yourself, it was a really interesting read and i'm looking forward to starting volume 2.
