I began reading this manga around 12:00 and couldn't stop until my head started aching at about 3:00. I was hooked from the very beginning.
Story (9): It revolves around two high school girls who become friends and eventually fall in love with each other. It also portrays the challenges they face in realizing, accepting their feelings, and ultimately becoming a couple. The reason the story didn't receive a perfect 10/10 is that it could have shown more about their life after school.
Art (9): The main characters are exceptionally well-detailed. The supporting characters are also well-developed, though you might occasionally confuse one for another when they're referred to by name, but this isn't a significant issue.
Characters (10): First and foremost, Mari (the first protagonist) is a shy girl who was alone until she met Akkiko (the second protagonist) and became friends with her. She's the type of girl who excels academically, doesn't socialize much, and is inexperienced with love. Akkiko, on the other hand, is cheerful and strikingly beautiful, more "girly" than Mari (she uses makeup, is interested in fashion, etc.), popular among her classmates (all girls) and boys, yet also inexperienced with love. She dramatically transforms Mari, making her even better both personally and in appearance.
The other girls are typical high school students interested in boys and parties but are genuinely kind and supportive throughout the story. There are almost no male characters in the story, but those who do appear play crucial roles in the plot.
Enjoyment (10): Despite never having read a similar manga or watched an anime like it before, I absolutely loved this one and was immediately drawn into it. It made me cry in the end;D.
Overall (10): This manga is brimming with emotion, and if you enjoy romance, you will almost certainly love it just as I did. It also changed my perspective on homosexuality.
**Please note that this is my first review, and English is not my native language, so please excuse any oversights.
Yuri is a genre that is often misunderstood. It tends to be associated with hentai due to its occasional sexual themes, specifically lesbianism. However, this isn't usually the case when reading quality yuri that goes beyond one-shots. "Girlfriends" serves as a prime example of this.
Initially, this series doesn't feel particularly like yuri. Even with some ecchi elements thrown in, it takes time for Mari and Ako's relationship to develop from point A to point B. And that's what makes this manga series so delightful. The writing is superb, as if the author poured her soul into it, and it truly shows. Yes, there is some girl-on-girl action after a few chapters (Oh my goodness! Boobies!). But that's not why "Girlfriends" is good. There's humor and a complex web of misunderstandings among the characters that unravels gently, piece by piece.
The issue with "Girlfriends" (depending on which volume was purchased first) is that there are some grammar typos (which were corrected in later reprints). Sometimes, facial expressions are exaggerated, especially at the beginning, but this improves over time, and the art gets better. Plus, reading "EH?!" all the time might seem funny at first but can become tiresome. Background characters also get their voices heard in this story, and one of Mari and Ako's friends even gets a chapter devoted to them. Those who don't find their niche still stick by it. The ending is abrupt, but it's satisfying nonetheless, tying up many loose ends.
On a Personal Note: I must admit, when I found this series online, I was expecting wall-to-wall porn (I was looking for that initially, sorry). During my first read of the early chapters, I kept thinking, "Alright... they're talking, this is funny... but get on with the lesbian stuff already!!!" I wanted to stop several times because I wasn't getting the hentai I was seeking. However, I soon became engrossed in the story and felt pretty foolish waiting for porn. Then I started enjoying it... I found myself rooting for Mari and Ako to be together a lot. The last few sentences of the ending made me cry hard. Later, I bought this series at Barnes & Noble and re-read it three more times over a year. I plan to re-read it again in a few months. The last time I read it, every sentence made my heart feel good. I'm not the type who reads romance novels, and I gag at make-out scenes in movies (ironically, coming from someone who was looking for lesbian porn). Yet every word and scene felt magical to me. It changed my mind about a lot of things. At times, it felt painfully slow while reading, but it was worth it. Now, when I see a lesbian couple, I don't think, "AWW! YEAHHH! That's hot! WOOOOO! Strap on!!!" Instead, I think, "AW YEAHHH! I hope they get married and adopt because they look like two wonderful human beings who love each other very much!" "Girlfriends" evolves into something more than what the genre typically offers. It's a romantic manga that touches the heart and changes the minds of those who read it. Thankfully, I'm glad I was wrong the first time I stumbled upon "Girlfriends." The writing genuinely changed my life (at least a little... still looking for lesbo action online).
"Girlfriends" is indeed an adventure for the soul.
This manga was the first yuri I came across that didn't seem to cater specifically to male audiences. It's incredibly refreshing to see my sexuality depicted as more than just a male fantasy. Not that I have anything against those types, but they simply don't align with my personal interests.
The characters are delightful and endearing, and the story follows a classic sweet first romance narrative. It's incredibly pure, and both the art style and writing create a gentle tone throughout. While it certainly evokes emotions, the reading experience feels smooth and comforting, like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket.
Milk truly excels at crafting heartfelt lesbian romance, and if you're as much of a romantic as I am, you'll devour this story eagerly. If you're seeking something more risqué, you won't find much here. However, the charm of the characters will likely win you over before you even reach those (sparse and brief) moments.
This review is based on what is out as of August 8th, 2010 (basically, 34/35 chapters).
I was initially deterred by Girl Friends—not the premise, but the name. It's akin to picking up generic cereal at the store. Generic brands just don't measure up to the more distinctive, pricier options. Perhaps a poor analogy, but you catch my drift. Girl Friends could have benefited from a more enticing title, yet it turns out that wasn't really needed. It was well-received by MyAnimeList members, and I'd been craving some shoujo-ai. Here are my thoughts.
That said, I can't pinpoint a single negative thing about Girl Friends. So if the rest of this review seems like an endorsement to anyone who loves shoujo or romance, urging them to find it online and devour it in one sitting, I apologize in advance.
What stands out most—and is arguably the most crucial element of any great piece of entertainment—is the impeccable pacing that runs throughout. Just as you're exhausted by the characters' indecision and emotional turmoil regarding their relationship, the author delivers sweet relief. I'd even compare it to the author skillfully manipulating readers' emotions, delaying gratification until the very last possible moment for maximum impact.
Other aspects took a secondary role for me compared to the stunning pacing and the bond between Mari and Akko. The artwork improved over time, which might be a downside for some, but I found the character designs and overall art quite appealing. While it won't leave anyone awestruck, the art is genuinely solid for a romance manga.
With only one chapter left before Girl Friends concludes, I'm left with a bittersweet sense of melancholy. It's the same feeling I get after finishing a Haruki Murakami novel, watching Akira Kurosawa's Ikiru, or first seeing The Vision of Escaflowne. Longtime anime and manga fans know this sentiment well—it fuels our passion. My sadness isn't solely due to Girl Friends ending, but because I realize I'll never experience it the same way again.
This is truly different and unique compared to other yuri and romance stories out there, so give it a try!
The story and characters evolve rapidly in an incredibly original and heartfelt manner. The first half of the manga is told from the perspective of one girl as she discovers her feelings, while the second half retells the same events but from the other girl's point of view, which completely transforms your understanding once both perspectives are woven together.
Moreover, the character designs are refreshing and adorable, complemented by a solid story structure and strong character development. The events feel genuinely relatable and natural.
Although it's a yuri, there isn't excessive sexual content, and when such elements do appear, they are fully justified by the narrative—unlike many other yuri works.
Don't let a genre tag mislead you; this is a genuinely original entry in the history of romance manga.
So, I am a massive fan of yuri. If someone were to ask me why, I wouldn’t be able to explain it. There’s just something inherently magnetic about the dynamics of two-girl relationships for me. And when I stumbled upon Girl Friends, I devoured it like an overweight child with a bag of Skittles. In my opinion, this is the best yuri manga ever written (and by that, I mean it's the best yuri manga I’ve come across). Sono Hanabira doesn’t count since it’s a visual novel. The drama, the romance, the characters—everything feels so genuinely real and human. And from glancing at other reviews on this page, I don’t think I’m alone in feeling this way.
Plot: 10/10
The plot begins slowly, perhaps a tad too slow for some readers, but personally, I find the gradual buildup works wonders. Over the course of the story, we gradually uncover more about these characters—their preferences, their quirks. The world-building is engaging, and even though not every event is immediately significant, they remain entertaining. For instance, in volume one, there’s a scene where the girls go shopping for clothes or discuss nail polish. Surprisingly, these moments tie into the larger narrative later on. It isn’t until volume two that the "gayngst" truly kicks in. Several plot twists occur throughout volumes 2-3, skillfully throwing a wrench into the storyline without feeling contrived. And then there’s the ending. Oh, the ending. I thought 5 Centimeters Per Second had an emotionally charged conclusion, but this one surpasses it. It’s incredibly heartwarming yet still brimming with emotion. It’s not sad—it’s uplifting—but it’s packed with feels nonetheless. What makes it remarkable is that it holds up under scrutiny. Unlike many stories I’ve reviewed recently, this one remains solid throughout all five volumes, never wavering in its quality.
Characters: 11/10
Every single character in this manga is unforgettable and fascinating. Even the supporting cast boasts distinct personalities. While I may struggle to recall their names (I’m terrible with names), I remember each of them vividly along with their traits. Writing such a diverse ensemble and ensuring each member stands out individually is no small feat. Occasionally, the characters act irrationally, but there’s always a plausible explanation behind their actions—they’re never driven solely by plot convenience. The author does an exceptional job of making you root for every character, especially Akko and Mari. You genuinely want them to end up together, which only heightens the satisfaction when their relationship blossoms.
Art: 10/10
Each and every character is undeniably adorable. The artist masterfully knows when to employ super deformed designs (chibis) and when to opt for realistic, detailed portrayals. The backgrounds are meticulously crafted. Did I mention how irresistibly cute the girls are? Because they truly are. The art rivals that of Sono Hanabira in quality. The artist pays close attention to intricate details that might go unnoticed unless you're observant. She clearly has a passion for drawing clothing, and it shows.
Girl Friends is undoubtedly one of the best yuri mangas I’ve read, if not one of the finest romances overall. The pacing is impeccable, the characters are likable and memorable—even the side characters. The dialogue rings true to what real girls might say to one another. The art breathes life into the characters, rendering them impossibly adorable. I’m still eagerly awaiting Mari plushies. I highly recommend this manga to anyone who enjoys yuri and has some leisure time to spare.
Story: 10
Holy crap, this story was both entertaining and fascinating. It revolves around Mari, an unpopular girl, and Akko, a rather popular girl, starting with Akko helping Mari become cuter. As their relationship evolves throughout the narrative, it transitions into a yuri manga. I thoroughly appreciated how the story developed post-confession. Another aspect I found remarkable were the activities the characters engaged in—group dates, drinking, and more—all presenting a realistic depiction of high school life.
The pacing was excellent; it didn't rush or drag, dividing the story roughly into thirds. The first part focuses on Mari, the second on Akko, and the final section on them as a couple (though not perfectly equal thirds, as Mari's segment is the largest, followed by Akko's, then the concluding part). This structure facilitated smooth transitions that enhanced the story's flow.
This tale also resonated with me personally, which I'll elaborate on when discussing enjoyment.
Art: 10
Milk Morinaga is a gifted artist who excelled in character design for this manga. All characters were beautifully rendered, and the chibi versions were exceptionally adorable.
Character: 9
I genuinely enjoyed the characters, as they are distinct enough to be memorable without being overly exaggerated. My only issue was with Haruda, whose introduction and departure from the story felt forced.
Enjoyment: 10
I immensely enjoyed this anime. Every time the main characters kissed, I cheered! Sure, I'm a guy who appreciates seeing two girls kiss, but witnessing their relationship grow brought genuine happiness. Seeing the two protagonists achieve milestones was truly heartwarming!
A significant reason for my enjoyment lies in a personal experience. Spoilers ahead regarding the story and my life—you can skip this if you prefer.
In middle school, I was shy and lacked confidence, but a girl helped me break out of my shell. She did exactly what Akko did for me, teaching me to be more confident and outgoing. Eventually, I started developing feelings for her, unsure whether it was due to her being one of my first friends or if I genuinely liked her. Reading this manga transported me back to those days of self-doubt, as Mari's emotions mirrored my own during that period.
Overall: 10
Another perfect score? Indeed, I tend to rate mangas highly, but the ones I've been reading have all been exceptional! "Girl Friends" marks my first yuri manga, and it certainly won't be my last.
If there's ever a manga that truly knows how to tug at your heartstrings, it's Girl Friends.
This manga is stunningly illustrated, engaging, and emotionally captivating, chronicling the lives of Mari, a young girl with a girlfriend—someone she begins to wish was more than just a "girl friend." Yes, that space makes all the difference.
For Mari, this is her predicament: she falls for her best friend—a girl. This story delves into all the drama, emotions, and confusion that come with falling in love. What complicates matters further for Mari is that she's in love with someone who doesn't know it, and worse yet, that person is not only her best friend but also a girl.
Navigating issues of sexuality can be daunting. Falling in love is already terrifying, and it's heartbreaking to love someone who doesn't reciprocate those feelings—but loving someone you can't afford to lose adds another layer of complexity.
The writer of this manga is nothing short of brilliant. The scenes are consistently compelling, and each one leaves a lasting impact.
Mari and Akko are remarkable characters. Mari serves as our voice, embodying the insecurities and fears we would feel in her situation. Akko, on the other hand, is an incredible character—fun, awesome, cool, with both a loving and playful side. It's easy to see why Mari would fall for her, and readers will likely find themselves rooting for her too.
This is an exceptional yuri manga. It's adorable, the characters are endearing, and the situations are incredibly relatable, whether or not you identify as gay or lesbian.
I absolutely loved this one! I've watched (almost) every yuri anime out there, so I started looking for some yuri manga. This wasn't the first one I read, but it's definitely among the best I've ever come across! It's super cute and amazing, though the story did unfold quite slowly. Despite that, it was pure awesomeness. Anyways *cough* if you're into yuri/shoujo-ai manga, you should definitely give this one a try. You will NOT be disappointed! :D<p>
<p>I don't usually read a lot, but this was an exception. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the experience and now feel inspired to read more. The characters were vivid and relatable, and the story held my interest from start to finish. While there were moments when the pace was slow and others where it felt rushed, these minor inconsistencies actually added to the overall charm of the narrative. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good read. After finishing some other books I've started, I plan to revisit this one. The only area that could use improvement is the pacing, which was occasionally uneven. However, this did not detract from my enjoyment of the story and, as mentioned, sometimes even enhanced it.</p>
This manga was a huge surprise to me since I was in the mood to read something different and ended up buying all 5 volumes at once (please don't do that), I didn't expect much, but when I picked up volume 1 and started reading... before I knew it, it was 4:30 AM and I had just finished volume 3. I got so immersed that I didn't even notice the time passing.
Story: The story follows a very calm pace; the first two volumes are focused on Mari and her feelings about everything that's happening. Then, the next two volumes focus on Akko and her feelings as well. Finally, the last volume focuses on both of them and concludes the story. I thought this pacing was excellent, and seeing the two perspectives was something I didn't expect but really hit the mark. Following each of them one at a time allows you to understand their feelings and personalities in a calm and enjoyable way. There will be times when you'll get angry at their decisions, but you can understand why they're making them, often due to a lack of communication (seriously, there were moments when I wanted to strangle Mari—she's so clueless, poor thing). The ending is quite satisfying and leaves a beautiful message about friendship, love, and acceptance.
Characters: It's amazing how no character in this manga is wasted. Each one has a completely distinct personality, yet they complement each other perfectly. We have Mari, who is shy, very intelligent, and just starting to learn about having friendships and love. Akko, on the other hand, is very extroverted, makes friends easily, and loves fashion, introducing Mari to this world. Tamamin is literally the stereotype of an otaku but doesn't care about others' judgments, serving as comic relief throughout much of the story. Sugiyama is probably the most mature among them all, appearing as a counselor at key points in the story. She even has a chapter dedicated to reflecting on her own way of loving. Taguchi is a tomboy who struggles with not finding a boyfriend (it's kind of heartbreaking), and she provides a counterpoint to Chiharu in the story. Lastly, we have Chiharu, the definition of a clingy and love-dependent girlfriend (her boyfriend is exactly like her), and her interactions with Taguchi are always funny.
Conclusion: I highly recommend this manga—you'll laugh, get angry, cry... it's a very complete story that flows smoothly, with memorable characters that you'll definitely relate to in some way. It makes you reflect not only on love but also on friendship.
<p>I absolutely adored Girl Friends! It was such a breath of fresh air to dive into a shoujo-ai manga that feels so honest and realistic. The characters are all incredibly endearing, and there were moments when I couldn't help but burst out laughing. The story is also very much rooted in the present, offering a great glimpse into the lives and interests of modern schoolgirls. There's no unnecessary melodrama here; it's simply a heartwarming slice-of-life tale about experiencing love for the first time. To me, it felt deeply personal and relatable. I highly recommend it to everyone, not just fans of yuri or shoujo-ai.</p>
Popular Reviews
Story (9): It revolves around two high school girls who become friends and eventually fall in love with each other. It also portrays the challenges they face in realizing, accepting their feelings, and ultimately becoming a couple. The reason the story didn't receive a perfect 10/10 is that it could have shown more about their life after school.
Art (9): The main characters are exceptionally well-detailed. The supporting characters are also well-developed, though you might occasionally confuse one for another when they're referred to by name, but this isn't a significant issue.
Characters (10): First and foremost, Mari (the first protagonist) is a shy girl who was alone until she met Akkiko (the second protagonist) and became friends with her. She's the type of girl who excels academically, doesn't socialize much, and is inexperienced with love. Akkiko, on the other hand, is cheerful and strikingly beautiful, more "girly" than Mari (she uses makeup, is interested in fashion, etc.), popular among her classmates (all girls) and boys, yet also inexperienced with love. She dramatically transforms Mari, making her even better both personally and in appearance.
The other girls are typical high school students interested in boys and parties but are genuinely kind and supportive throughout the story. There are almost no male characters in the story, but those who do appear play crucial roles in the plot.
Enjoyment (10): Despite never having read a similar manga or watched an anime like it before, I absolutely loved this one and was immediately drawn into it. It made me cry in the end;D.
Overall (10): This manga is brimming with emotion, and if you enjoy romance, you will almost certainly love it just as I did. It also changed my perspective on homosexuality.
**Please note that this is my first review, and English is not my native language, so please excuse any oversights.
Yuri is a genre that is often misunderstood. It tends to be associated with hentai due to its occasional sexual themes, specifically lesbianism. However, this isn't usually the case when reading quality yuri that goes beyond one-shots. "Girlfriends" serves as a prime example of this.
Initially, this series doesn't feel particularly like yuri. Even with some ecchi elements thrown in, it takes time for Mari and Ako's relationship to develop from point A to point B. And that's what makes this manga series so delightful. The writing is superb, as if the author poured her soul into it, and it truly shows. Yes, there is some girl-on-girl action after a few chapters (Oh my goodness! Boobies!). But that's not why "Girlfriends" is good. There's humor and a complex web of misunderstandings among the characters that unravels gently, piece by piece.
The issue with "Girlfriends" (depending on which volume was purchased first) is that there are some grammar typos (which were corrected in later reprints). Sometimes, facial expressions are exaggerated, especially at the beginning, but this improves over time, and the art gets better. Plus, reading "EH?!" all the time might seem funny at first but can become tiresome. Background characters also get their voices heard in this story, and one of Mari and Ako's friends even gets a chapter devoted to them. Those who don't find their niche still stick by it. The ending is abrupt, but it's satisfying nonetheless, tying up many loose ends.
On a Personal Note: I must admit, when I found this series online, I was expecting wall-to-wall porn (I was looking for that initially, sorry). During my first read of the early chapters, I kept thinking, "Alright... they're talking, this is funny... but get on with the lesbian stuff already!!!" I wanted to stop several times because I wasn't getting the hentai I was seeking. However, I soon became engrossed in the story and felt pretty foolish waiting for porn. Then I started enjoying it... I found myself rooting for Mari and Ako to be together a lot. The last few sentences of the ending made me cry hard. Later, I bought this series at Barnes & Noble and re-read it three more times over a year. I plan to re-read it again in a few months. The last time I read it, every sentence made my heart feel good. I'm not the type who reads romance novels, and I gag at make-out scenes in movies (ironically, coming from someone who was looking for lesbian porn). Yet every word and scene felt magical to me. It changed my mind about a lot of things. At times, it felt painfully slow while reading, but it was worth it. Now, when I see a lesbian couple, I don't think, "AWW! YEAHHH! That's hot! WOOOOO! Strap on!!!" Instead, I think, "AW YEAHHH! I hope they get married and adopt because they look like two wonderful human beings who love each other very much!" "Girlfriends" evolves into something more than what the genre typically offers. It's a romantic manga that touches the heart and changes the minds of those who read it. Thankfully, I'm glad I was wrong the first time I stumbled upon "Girlfriends." The writing genuinely changed my life (at least a little... still looking for lesbo action online).
"Girlfriends" is indeed an adventure for the soul.
The characters are delightful and endearing, and the story follows a classic sweet first romance narrative. It's incredibly pure, and both the art style and writing create a gentle tone throughout. While it certainly evokes emotions, the reading experience feels smooth and comforting, like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket.
Milk truly excels at crafting heartfelt lesbian romance, and if you're as much of a romantic as I am, you'll devour this story eagerly. If you're seeking something more risqué, you won't find much here. However, the charm of the characters will likely win you over before you even reach those (sparse and brief) moments.
<p>
I was initially deterred by Girl Friends—not the premise, but the name. It's akin to picking up generic cereal at the store. Generic brands just don't measure up to the more distinctive, pricier options. Perhaps a poor analogy, but you catch my drift. Girl Friends could have benefited from a more enticing title, yet it turns out that wasn't really needed. It was well-received by MyAnimeList members, and I'd been craving some shoujo-ai. Here are my thoughts.
That said, I can't pinpoint a single negative thing about Girl Friends. So if the rest of this review seems like an endorsement to anyone who loves shoujo or romance, urging them to find it online and devour it in one sitting, I apologize in advance.
What stands out most—and is arguably the most crucial element of any great piece of entertainment—is the impeccable pacing that runs throughout. Just as you're exhausted by the characters' indecision and emotional turmoil regarding their relationship, the author delivers sweet relief. I'd even compare it to the author skillfully manipulating readers' emotions, delaying gratification until the very last possible moment for maximum impact.
Other aspects took a secondary role for me compared to the stunning pacing and the bond between Mari and Akko. The artwork improved over time, which might be a downside for some, but I found the character designs and overall art quite appealing. While it won't leave anyone awestruck, the art is genuinely solid for a romance manga.
With only one chapter left before Girl Friends concludes, I'm left with a bittersweet sense of melancholy. It's the same feeling I get after finishing a Haruki Murakami novel, watching Akira Kurosawa's Ikiru, or first seeing The Vision of Escaflowne. Longtime anime and manga fans know this sentiment well—it fuels our passion. My sadness isn't solely due to Girl Friends ending, but because I realize I'll never experience it the same way again.
The story and characters evolve rapidly in an incredibly original and heartfelt manner. The first half of the manga is told from the perspective of one girl as she discovers her feelings, while the second half retells the same events but from the other girl's point of view, which completely transforms your understanding once both perspectives are woven together.
Moreover, the character designs are refreshing and adorable, complemented by a solid story structure and strong character development. The events feel genuinely relatable and natural.
Although it's a yuri, there isn't excessive sexual content, and when such elements do appear, they are fully justified by the narrative—unlike many other yuri works.
Don't let a genre tag mislead you; this is a genuinely original entry in the history of romance manga.
Final score: 9/10.
So, I am a massive fan of yuri. If someone were to ask me why, I wouldn’t be able to explain it. There’s just something inherently magnetic about the dynamics of two-girl relationships for me. And when I stumbled upon Girl Friends, I devoured it like an overweight child with a bag of Skittles. In my opinion, this is the best yuri manga ever written (and by that, I mean it's the best yuri manga I’ve come across). Sono Hanabira doesn’t count since it’s a visual novel. The drama, the romance, the characters—everything feels so genuinely real and human. And from glancing at other reviews on this page, I don’t think I’m alone in feeling this way.
Plot: 10/10
The plot begins slowly, perhaps a tad too slow for some readers, but personally, I find the gradual buildup works wonders. Over the course of the story, we gradually uncover more about these characters—their preferences, their quirks. The world-building is engaging, and even though not every event is immediately significant, they remain entertaining. For instance, in volume one, there’s a scene where the girls go shopping for clothes or discuss nail polish. Surprisingly, these moments tie into the larger narrative later on. It isn’t until volume two that the "gayngst" truly kicks in. Several plot twists occur throughout volumes 2-3, skillfully throwing a wrench into the storyline without feeling contrived. And then there’s the ending. Oh, the ending. I thought 5 Centimeters Per Second had an emotionally charged conclusion, but this one surpasses it. It’s incredibly heartwarming yet still brimming with emotion. It’s not sad—it’s uplifting—but it’s packed with feels nonetheless. What makes it remarkable is that it holds up under scrutiny. Unlike many stories I’ve reviewed recently, this one remains solid throughout all five volumes, never wavering in its quality.
Characters: 11/10
Every single character in this manga is unforgettable and fascinating. Even the supporting cast boasts distinct personalities. While I may struggle to recall their names (I’m terrible with names), I remember each of them vividly along with their traits. Writing such a diverse ensemble and ensuring each member stands out individually is no small feat. Occasionally, the characters act irrationally, but there’s always a plausible explanation behind their actions—they’re never driven solely by plot convenience. The author does an exceptional job of making you root for every character, especially Akko and Mari. You genuinely want them to end up together, which only heightens the satisfaction when their relationship blossoms.
Art: 10/10
Each and every character is undeniably adorable. The artist masterfully knows when to employ super deformed designs (chibis) and when to opt for realistic, detailed portrayals. The backgrounds are meticulously crafted. Did I mention how irresistibly cute the girls are? Because they truly are. The art rivals that of Sono Hanabira in quality. The artist pays close attention to intricate details that might go unnoticed unless you're observant. She clearly has a passion for drawing clothing, and it shows.
Girl Friends is undoubtedly one of the best yuri mangas I’ve read, if not one of the finest romances overall. The pacing is impeccable, the characters are likable and memorable—even the side characters. The dialogue rings true to what real girls might say to one another. The art breathes life into the characters, rendering them impossibly adorable. I’m still eagerly awaiting Mari plushies. I highly recommend this manga to anyone who enjoys yuri and has some leisure time to spare.
Story: 10
Holy crap, this story was both entertaining and fascinating. It revolves around Mari, an unpopular girl, and Akko, a rather popular girl, starting with Akko helping Mari become cuter. As their relationship evolves throughout the narrative, it transitions into a yuri manga. I thoroughly appreciated how the story developed post-confession. Another aspect I found remarkable were the activities the characters engaged in—group dates, drinking, and more—all presenting a realistic depiction of high school life.
The pacing was excellent; it didn't rush or drag, dividing the story roughly into thirds. The first part focuses on Mari, the second on Akko, and the final section on them as a couple (though not perfectly equal thirds, as Mari's segment is the largest, followed by Akko's, then the concluding part). This structure facilitated smooth transitions that enhanced the story's flow.
This tale also resonated with me personally, which I'll elaborate on when discussing enjoyment.
Art: 10
Milk Morinaga is a gifted artist who excelled in character design for this manga. All characters were beautifully rendered, and the chibi versions were exceptionally adorable.
Character: 9
I genuinely enjoyed the characters, as they are distinct enough to be memorable without being overly exaggerated. My only issue was with Haruda, whose introduction and departure from the story felt forced.
Enjoyment: 10
I immensely enjoyed this anime. Every time the main characters kissed, I cheered! Sure, I'm a guy who appreciates seeing two girls kiss, but witnessing their relationship grow brought genuine happiness. Seeing the two protagonists achieve milestones was truly heartwarming!
A significant reason for my enjoyment lies in a personal experience. Spoilers ahead regarding the story and my life—you can skip this if you prefer.
In middle school, I was shy and lacked confidence, but a girl helped me break out of my shell. She did exactly what Akko did for me, teaching me to be more confident and outgoing. Eventually, I started developing feelings for her, unsure whether it was due to her being one of my first friends or if I genuinely liked her. Reading this manga transported me back to those days of self-doubt, as Mari's emotions mirrored my own during that period.
Overall: 10
Another perfect score? Indeed, I tend to rate mangas highly, but the ones I've been reading have all been exceptional! "Girl Friends" marks my first yuri manga, and it certainly won't be my last.
This manga is stunningly illustrated, engaging, and emotionally captivating, chronicling the lives of Mari, a young girl with a girlfriend—someone she begins to wish was more than just a "girl friend." Yes, that space makes all the difference.
For Mari, this is her predicament: she falls for her best friend—a girl. This story delves into all the drama, emotions, and confusion that come with falling in love. What complicates matters further for Mari is that she's in love with someone who doesn't know it, and worse yet, that person is not only her best friend but also a girl.
Navigating issues of sexuality can be daunting. Falling in love is already terrifying, and it's heartbreaking to love someone who doesn't reciprocate those feelings—but loving someone you can't afford to lose adds another layer of complexity.
The writer of this manga is nothing short of brilliant. The scenes are consistently compelling, and each one leaves a lasting impact.
Mari and Akko are remarkable characters. Mari serves as our voice, embodying the insecurities and fears we would feel in her situation. Akko, on the other hand, is an incredible character—fun, awesome, cool, with both a loving and playful side. It's easy to see why Mari would fall for her, and readers will likely find themselves rooting for her too.
This is an exceptional yuri manga. It's adorable, the characters are endearing, and the situations are incredibly relatable, whether or not you identify as gay or lesbian.
Story: The story follows a very calm pace; the first two volumes are focused on Mari and her feelings about everything that's happening. Then, the next two volumes focus on Akko and her feelings as well. Finally, the last volume focuses on both of them and concludes the story. I thought this pacing was excellent, and seeing the two perspectives was something I didn't expect but really hit the mark. Following each of them one at a time allows you to understand their feelings and personalities in a calm and enjoyable way. There will be times when you'll get angry at their decisions, but you can understand why they're making them, often due to a lack of communication (seriously, there were moments when I wanted to strangle Mari—she's so clueless, poor thing). The ending is quite satisfying and leaves a beautiful message about friendship, love, and acceptance.
Characters: It's amazing how no character in this manga is wasted. Each one has a completely distinct personality, yet they complement each other perfectly. We have Mari, who is shy, very intelligent, and just starting to learn about having friendships and love. Akko, on the other hand, is very extroverted, makes friends easily, and loves fashion, introducing Mari to this world. Tamamin is literally the stereotype of an otaku but doesn't care about others' judgments, serving as comic relief throughout much of the story. Sugiyama is probably the most mature among them all, appearing as a counselor at key points in the story. She even has a chapter dedicated to reflecting on her own way of loving. Taguchi is a tomboy who struggles with not finding a boyfriend (it's kind of heartbreaking), and she provides a counterpoint to Chiharu in the story. Lastly, we have Chiharu, the definition of a clingy and love-dependent girlfriend (her boyfriend is exactly like her), and her interactions with Taguchi are always funny.
Conclusion: I highly recommend this manga—you'll laugh, get angry, cry... it's a very complete story that flows smoothly, with memorable characters that you'll definitely relate to in some way. It makes you reflect not only on love but also on friendship.
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