Overall this is a collection of cute short stories with lovely art and some nice romantic moments. That said, excluding the final story, these are all pretty standard - nothing that really sticks out in any way. But, the last story is excellent, the psychological aspect, the possessive dependence, the inferiority complex, it all melds together to create a wonderfully complex character in a setting that clashes with his very being, its a really good story.

The story of the two newscasters was mildly interesting. Rating: 6/10. It was quick, mindless and enjoyable, but ultimately forgettable. The art, although adequate and FAR better than anything I could ever do, just didn't stand out to me. Same goes for the story line. There was a brief moment in the story that I felt connected: when the lights went out while they were filming in the haunted studio room. It was sweetly touching.

The sports newscaster and the baseball player (chap 4/5) were a humourous pair. I liked those characters because they made me smile. Not much of a plot, but it was light and laughable. Still, not one I would go back to again and again. So, maybe a 7 for that story.

Chapter 6 character's didn't affect me at all - they were totally flat and I didn't care about them one iota. I'd rate that one about a 4 because the artwork was still competent - the perspectives were on and it was clear to understand. The plot was so thin, i missed it. It didn't make up for a thin plot by making me laugh or making me hot with a gratuitous sex scene.

Flower of Understanding was outstanding! It hit me like a ton of bricks: I was shocked at the impact after ho-humming from chapter 1 through 6. Kanade and Kairi were well-developed characters with complex, 3-dimensional personalities. Their thoughts and emotions were told with excellently-placed words and scenes: I had to stop and think, but I WANTED to figure out their motives. I'd rate that one a 9! The art seemed more dramatic to me, too.

... Last updated on June 7th, 2008, 10:04am

I did not expect to much from this manga before reading it but it turned out pretty good. The art is beautiful and the yaoi scenes are very nice and romantic.