This is a nice collection of oneshots written and illustrated by authors part of Group 49, a group of female mangaka who pioneered the shoujo genre. I found the first two stories, particularly the second one called "They Were Eleven", highly entertaining and quite compelling. While the first story is mellow in tone and pace accompanied by light illustrations, the second one echoes "Lord of the Flies" in that it can be viewed as a study of the human condition, and the extent to which a healthy civilisation must be based on pre-conceived rules and order. Hagio Moto also finds the time to add to the story her characteristic take on gender identity and sexuality.

The third and fourth stories, though interesting, I can't say I enjoyed very much. I personally found the third story to be quite confusing in terms of narrative and character motives - the weak ending didn't help either. In regards to the fourth, the storytelling is excellent but I personally didn't like any of the characters' personalities.

All in all, I would still recommend this volume to all manga afficionados. There are no cliches that riddle the vast majority of modern shoujo stories - in fact, there is only a whiff of romance. These short stories would definitely appeal to readers of all genres.

The style of storytelling reminiscent in Eleven and Changeling is rarely seen anymore: ability to weave a highly complex tale without stumbling on plot and characterisation. Out of the collection, these 2 count as some of the best oneshots I've read and seriously blow many short stories out of the water. Nay, put that as "many stories"?

the 2nd and 3rd story are old time sci fi that are pure gold. i always love me some sci fi, but i never realize shoujo mangaka made the best of them. very strong message, interesting backdrop, incredible twist, unique characters, both these stories are very very worth your time.

first and last story is from the same author and it is just a general shoujo manga. the first story is highly forgettable and the last story is just a little less so. however, on the fourth story i dont think it is bad in itself, it may be just not my preference. as a shoujo, i think it is a bit good.

all in all, must read 2nd and 3rd story and skip the rest if you dont have time.

Four Shoujo Stories was our lovely shoujo scholar Matt Thorn's strongest attempt to bring works by the masters of shoujo to the masses. It's too bad it had such an unfortunate fate. At least we devotees can surreptiously share our scans with each other.

Hagio Moto's "They Were Eleven" is a solid classic of sci-fi manga, and it's hands-down the best story of the group. "Changeling" isn't as well-known, but as a sci-fi that tries to make you think it's on the same level.

Nishi Keiko's stories, which bookend the volume, aren't quite as strong. Her art is average at best, and her storytelling rises above the majority of her genre by a negligible amount. I've never understood what makes Thorn wax poetic about her.

Nevertheless, I'm comfortable calling this the best volume of shoujo manga ever available in English. It's too bad they're all languishing in a warehouse somewhere now.

Its okay...i guess... but GOSH, i HATED DRAWINGSS !><'' can't stand it.. i like the second story the bestt : D although there werent' much romance in it. well read it if yu want.. ;P