by barbapapa on October 27th, 2006, 3:21am

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User rating of this review - 5 out of 5
Story/Plot - 5 out of 5
Characters - 5 out of 5
Drawing Style - 4 out of 5
Enjoyment - 5 out of 5
Overall - 5 out of 5

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Plot/Story
This story, like many of Makoto Isshiki's works, is a real slice of life/coming of age type of story. With in the center 2 young boys trying to struggle through school, expectations and downfalls. Filled with hope and insecurity, the young Amamiya-kun transfers to his new school. But things already go awry soon when he gets picked on by his classmates, ending up in a dare to play the spooky "Piano in the Forest" at the edge of town. That is, before our other protagonist shows up and puts a stop to this. A mysterious blonde boy, that goes by the name of Ichinose Kai steps up to the plate...

Characters
The characters are probably the strongest asset in this manga. The mangaka is known to set up misfortunate situations for his main characters; like how Kai is the son of a prostitute. His characters are never flat and 2-dimensional; they feel like real people with real feelings. And the interaction between them is usually very interesting to observe.

Drawing Style
Nothing spectacular, but Makoto Isshiki has a very simple, clean style which isnt lacking in any way. Character's emotions are portrayed very well. It may look more child-like for a seinen series; but it is without a doubt a book for people with a ripe mind.

Enjoyment
There's a lot to get out of it; even though I believe Hanada Shonen-shi is even better because it has more comedy in it. Commit to a different kind of manga, and you'll be pleasantly surprised, and I hope, even touched by this special series.

Overall
Well, what's left to say? I adore this manga, and I even went as far to revive the group that used to work on it so it wouldn't die an anonymous death.

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