Paradise Kiss is an absolute gem. The characters are flawed but, for the most part, lovable. It's a story of growth and finding one's place in life. I love how Yukari, the female lead, evolves from being listless and unsure to becoming a passionate adult who has found her footing and enjoys her life. We witness the (often painful) beginnings of this transformation. The ending left me raw but satisfied. This truly is a masterpiece...I had no idea I'd love it so much.
Art 9/10 - Initially, I wasn't sure about the art style. However, as I read, my opinion quickly changed. The proportions can be downright scary at times, but it actually adds to the charm of the manga. This is an intentional stylistic choice. The comedic sketches are spot-on. If the art is holding you back from reading, like it did with me, don't worry...you'll end up enjoying it.
Everything else is a solid 10/10!
SPOILERS - PLEASE DO NOT CONTINUE READING IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE MANGA YET!!!
SERIOUSLY!!
I MEAN IT! c:
I normally don't write spoilers...but there are just some things I feel compelled to address. Some people complain about Yukari not ending up with George. But, I think that is the best outcome! He was often cruel to her. Although he had true feelings for her, he was too selfish to give her what she needed. If she had stayed with him, she would have given up too much of herself, following him around the world. She chose to live her life for herself, which is strong and beautiful. George was her stepping stone towards a better life. That's why I think she still carried love for him years later—not because she wanted to be with him, but because she was thankful for the good things he did for her.
And then there are those who might ask, "Why didn't she just get with Tokumori in the beginning?!" Isn't it obvious? He was a great guy from the start. But Yukari had a shallow love for him. She wasn't ready for a real relationship, and neither was he, especially considering his relationship with Miwako. What happened with George and the other hinted-at relationships over the 10-year gap near the end gave her the depth and capability to have a meaningful relationship. She got together with Tokumori at the perfect time in her life. And by the end of the manga, you can tell they will be truly happy together...with no regrets. It's realistic, meaningful, and a lovely way for the story to conclude.
Popular Reviews
Paradise Kiss is an absolute gem. The characters are flawed but, for the most part, lovable. It's a story of growth and finding one's place in life. I love how Yukari, the female lead, evolves from being listless and unsure to becoming a passionate adult who has found her footing and enjoys her life. We witness the (often painful) beginnings of this transformation. The ending left me raw but satisfied. This truly is a masterpiece...I had no idea I'd love it so much.
Art 9/10 - Initially, I wasn't sure about the art style. However, as I read, my opinion quickly changed. The proportions can be downright scary at times, but it actually adds to the charm of the manga. This is an intentional stylistic choice. The comedic sketches are spot-on. If the art is holding you back from reading, like it did with me, don't worry...you'll end up enjoying it.
Everything else is a solid 10/10!
SPOILERS - PLEASE DO NOT CONTINUE READING IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE MANGA YET!!!
SERIOUSLY!!
I MEAN IT! c:
I normally don't write spoilers...but there are just some things I feel compelled to address. Some people complain about Yukari not ending up with George. But, I think that is the best outcome! He was often cruel to her. Although he had true feelings for her, he was too selfish to give her what she needed. If she had stayed with him, she would have given up too much of herself, following him around the world. She chose to live her life for herself, which is strong and beautiful. George was her stepping stone towards a better life. That's why I think she still carried love for him years later—not because she wanted to be with him, but because she was thankful for the good things he did for her.
And then there are those who might ask, "Why didn't she just get with Tokumori in the beginning?!" Isn't it obvious? He was a great guy from the start. But Yukari had a shallow love for him. She wasn't ready for a real relationship, and neither was he, especially considering his relationship with Miwako. What happened with George and the other hinted-at relationships over the 10-year gap near the end gave her the depth and capability to have a meaningful relationship. She got together with Tokumori at the perfect time in her life. And by the end of the manga, you can tell they will be truly happy together...with no regrets. It's realistic, meaningful, and a lovely way for the story to conclude.
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