This isn't one of those cliche shounen manga where all significant details are explained in the first couple of volumes, with the rest of the series being expended on training sessions and meaningless filler arcs. If you're expecting something typical to this demographic, Torikago Gakkyuu is not for you.

So far the story is quite interesting, and since the protagonist himself is struggling to figure out the reason for his sudden imprisonment in this unusual 'school', it's obvious that the readers would be confused as well. The personalities of his teachers and classmates are bizarre and deliciously twisted; the story provides an eclectic mixture of social commentary and supernatural mystery which I personally find very intriguing -- quite unlike anything I've seen before.

One issue I have, though, is how readily Mikage accepts his inexplicable confinement and the odd behaviour of those around him. But recent revelations promise a satisfactory explanation for this less-than-sane reaction. Hopefully, the developments in later volumes will not disappoint.

And...pseudo-yaoi interactions? What!? Between who and who, exactly? There is no such thing; if any, there are some pseudo-romantic interactions between the supporting characters...but their personalities are such that this manga is unlikely to ever become 'romantic' in the conventional sense.

The art is elaborate and atypical, with a darkness that caters appropriately to the moody atmosphere permeating the story.

A good choice if you're tired of standard shounen fare and looking for something darker and more well thought out.

(The previous summary was, admittedly, not detailed enough -- I've altered the description)

... Last updated on August 26th, 2011, 7:16am

It's so weird to the point that I don't even know what the hell I was reading but guess what? That doesn't matter!!! This manga is so unique, you can't really see anything normal about it!

I love the characters and how the story pulls you in. This manga is like a roller coaster ride in a dark tunnel that runs for at least 30 minutes in complete darkness. You don't know what's gonna happen, so instead, you just enjoy the ride!

I've read till the very end and I loved it. I adored the drawing, I adored the characters. And I enjoyed the ride. There aren't many mangas out there as unique as this one. So I say, why not?

First off, this is a GFantasy title. Which means it's reasonable to expect it to be "girly shounen." Which it is.

It's a wacked-out gothic-styled story that may take place in this world, or somewhere else, but everything happens at a school where all the students have something kooky going on in their heads. The MC has to save parallel dimensions by helping his fellow students. Which is a theme that a lot of manga use, but these students are a lot more troubled than average.

It's odd and weird and often a bit hard to follow, but that weirdness is what makes me keep coming.

Wow I love the cute art in here, it's really refreshing. Also the story is interesting. If you are interested in Gothic kind of art at all this is a real winner. Just try a chapter, you wont go wrong.