Well if we are being honest not everyone would enjoy the middle and latter parts of the first arc but if you get through that It should be a breeze cause that's when all the fun begins everything before that was just getting rid of unnneeded baggage. I got hooked from about chapter 1( Ryu is such an arrogant bastrad that you'd feel p*ss*d if he abandoned it all and started being humble.) The beginning parts of the story although it might not seem like it the mc is far too immature and rash but you'll understand why pretty early on, but don't worry he'll grow out of it and become a good MC. When you start you should read everything up until the four kingdoms tournament then decided if you still want to continue. The chapters that followed were still interesting but I remembered it being such a drag that I skipped a few of them, but it definitely picked up after that. Another thing is the mc gets nerfed a lot but he always over comes them and becomes stronger
This was one of the first manga I ever read, and I recently had the chance to reread it. Honestly, it felt a bit more sentimental than I recalled, but it was still incredibly enjoyable.
Yes, the narrative does rely heavily on the "follow your dreams no matter what" trope, but it's presented in an earnest, realistic, and sincere manner. The characters encounter genuine challenges as they strive to become astronauts, allowing for meaningful character growth. The story spans from elementary school to high school graduation, and it's deeply satisfying to witness how Asumi, Kei, Marika, Fuchuya, and Shu develop into mature young adults.
Moreover, the artwork is stunning. Yaginuma's style of drawing people is quite distinctive, with each character being uniquely identifiable and highly expressive. However, the true highlight is the scenery. There are breathtaking one- and two-page spreads showcasing the night sky, forests, the sea, sunsets, all beautifully rendered. Even smaller panels of landscapes are visually striking.
I believe this manga might be difficult to find, but if you can get your hands on it, do read it. It's profoundly touching and uplifting.
Twin Spica stands out as a jewel in the realm of science fiction manga. Although set in a futuristic world, it doesn't always depict space exploration in an optimistic light. The Earth of the early 21st century appears much like it did in the late 20th century. Against this backdrop, the protagonist, whose starry aspirations were sparked by personal tragedy, seeks to inspire those around her with her passion for space. Twin Spica is as much a poignant narrative of human drama as it is an inspiring coming-of-age story.
Kou Yaginuma's art captivates readers, drawing them into every detail of the manga panels to fully immerse themselves in the story's environment. Subtle shifts in the atmosphere are mirrored in the evolving art style, offering a refreshing change that keeps readers engaged rather than accustomed to a singular aesthetic. The storytelling flows seamlessly, complemented perfectly by the artwork, which vividly captures the dramatic highs and lows. One might only wish for the entire series to be rendered in color, but the black-and-white art is already breathtaking.
Character development is central to Twin Spica's narrative, with every interaction between main and supporting characters serving a purpose. Readers follow five ambitious teenagers striving to become astronauts at a prestigious national space academy. Each character is initially introduced with distinct traits, yet as the story unfolds, hidden secrets come to light. Together and individually, they confront their challenges, shaped significantly by moments of tragedy. Flashbacks, timed with precision, delve into the characters' backgrounds, clarifying their motivations and actions within the plot.
It's hard not to be drawn into the series' nostalgic charm. Twin Spica encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of young adulthood, particularly in Japan. Readers can empathize with the characters through the primary storyline and connect with the author through semi-autobiographical sketches at the end of each volume. The numerous references to historical events, figures, and milestones in space exploration lend the story a sense of realism with a touch of fantasy. While it doesn't aim to educate, it encourages readers to face their experiences with optimism, acknowledging the inevitable obstacles ahead.
Twin Spica was nominated for the 49th Japanese National Science Fiction Convention Award for Best Comic Series, akin to the Hugo Awards, in 2010. It was also recognized by the U.S. Young Adult Library Services Association as one of the Great Graphic Novels for Teens in 2011.
Popular Reviews
There's gonna be a crazy plot twist btw
Yes, the narrative does rely heavily on the "follow your dreams no matter what" trope, but it's presented in an earnest, realistic, and sincere manner. The characters encounter genuine challenges as they strive to become astronauts, allowing for meaningful character growth. The story spans from elementary school to high school graduation, and it's deeply satisfying to witness how Asumi, Kei, Marika, Fuchuya, and Shu develop into mature young adults.
Moreover, the artwork is stunning. Yaginuma's style of drawing people is quite distinctive, with each character being uniquely identifiable and highly expressive. However, the true highlight is the scenery. There are breathtaking one- and two-page spreads showcasing the night sky, forests, the sea, sunsets, all beautifully rendered. Even smaller panels of landscapes are visually striking.
I believe this manga might be difficult to find, but if you can get your hands on it, do read it. It's profoundly touching and uplifting.
<p>
Kou Yaginuma's art captivates readers, drawing them into every detail of the manga panels to fully immerse themselves in the story's environment. Subtle shifts in the atmosphere are mirrored in the evolving art style, offering a refreshing change that keeps readers engaged rather than accustomed to a singular aesthetic. The storytelling flows seamlessly, complemented perfectly by the artwork, which vividly captures the dramatic highs and lows. One might only wish for the entire series to be rendered in color, but the black-and-white art is already breathtaking.
Character development is central to Twin Spica's narrative, with every interaction between main and supporting characters serving a purpose. Readers follow five ambitious teenagers striving to become astronauts at a prestigious national space academy. Each character is initially introduced with distinct traits, yet as the story unfolds, hidden secrets come to light. Together and individually, they confront their challenges, shaped significantly by moments of tragedy. Flashbacks, timed with precision, delve into the characters' backgrounds, clarifying their motivations and actions within the plot.
It's hard not to be drawn into the series' nostalgic charm. Twin Spica encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of young adulthood, particularly in Japan. Readers can empathize with the characters through the primary storyline and connect with the author through semi-autobiographical sketches at the end of each volume. The numerous references to historical events, figures, and milestones in space exploration lend the story a sense of realism with a touch of fantasy. While it doesn't aim to educate, it encourages readers to face their experiences with optimism, acknowledging the inevitable obstacles ahead.
Twin Spica was nominated for the 49th Japanese National Science Fiction Convention Award for Best Comic Series, akin to the Hugo Awards, in 2010. It was also recognized by the U.S. Young Adult Library Services Association as one of the Great Graphic Novels for Teens in 2011.