Although it's understandable that the basis of the story may make some people judge that this manhwa is another one filled with cliches, as far as the execution goes, cliche is definitely not it. This story is not fantasy nor romance (even though it's tagged as so, and implied countless times within the story) - it is a flat out coming of age tale that really applies itself to reality, and young adults currently experiencing coming of age is the targeted audience. Let's review based on this:
The main characters are both dynamic and round, showing various positive and negative qualities on top of gradual development. Side characters lack growth, but it is not a story long enough to afford descriptive personalities for the non-essential figures.
Art is without a doubt top notch - it may seem plain, but there is a lot of thought put into each scene. 3D and 2D art are manipulatively entwined together to make not only beautiful images, but also meaningful representations. In example, the fact that almost every location is black and white except certain scenes involving the fairgrounds helps exemplify the overall theme of childlike fantasies vs. reality. 3D art and color is used sparingly as a storytelling device instead of simple illustrations.
Annarasumanara's story, if summed up, is plain and without a doubt overdone. However, one thing Annarasumanara manages to do is not succumb to the expectations of the average shoujo reader. The tale doesn't stray off the path of reality at any point (our characters may, but the tale itself definitely stays true to reality), therefore the ending is only expected to be the most fitting. The messages the author tries to deliver are printed onto the page, which is perfect for a tale like this. If meanings were any more vague, the lessons would have been lost among the pretty images and cute magic tricks. The pacing of storytelling is comfortable, and nothing but. Annarasumanara's beginning, middle, and end never changes its direction from the goal, and it succeeds in taking the reader on a rather magical journey.
Magic isn't the star of the story - it is a story which uses magic to let the reader realize the importance of reality, and how important it is to grab onto other beliefs which may stray from the norm. Do not be disappointed when the ending turns out not to be what you may have in mind, the goal of this story is to show how one may hold a childlike passion while living "successfully" in the real world. As depicted, Il-Deung's daily life is how many children live in many Asian countries - delirious with pressure to do well in school. Irresponsible parents aren't unheard of either. Annarasumanara is depressingly realistic, whilst being so magically wondrous. A great read for young adults.