Fujita

“Wotakoi” goes back and forth from being a very lighthearted, nerdy romcom of a story to one that’s pretty frustrating to read, primarily because of the casual yet constant body shaming and the vaguely uncomfortable relationship between the side couple (Koyanagi and Kabakura). Although the sweet moments were very good, and I enjoyed the simplicity of just friends hanging out, it was weird to have characters constantly calling their partner an “ugly hag” or criticize them for having a certain boob size. Maybe the writer was trying to be funny but it really didn’t work out. I mighttt read Vol. 2 but it’s not high on my priority list.… (mehr)

An office romantic comedy centered around Otakus. Yes? It really was a 50/50 chance that I was either going to really love it or really hate this series. Rarely do I find romance novels that are just fine. The hesitation was due in part to the overwhelming negative portrayal of Otakus and Otaku culture as a whole. I didn't want to be beaten over the head with the same lazy trope of a highly intelligent, morbidly obese recluse who has an unhealthy obsession with anime and manga. Any type of long term obsession that causes you to lose touch with reality or entices you to behave in a harmful way to others should be avoided in general and it can occur in any type of fan base where that behavior is accepted. Having said that I am really glad it didn't go in that direction. Generally the overall focus is learning to not deny what you like but to do it in somewhat healthy and moderate way that actually allows you to have other experiences including having friends. What makes this series special is the fact that the protagonists are properly motivated (based on their personalities) to build relationships, have setbacks, grow as human beings while having the same experiences as non-Otakus. It's interesting because of who they are as people not what society decides to label them. It's a nice wholesome message of not being afraid to "Treat yo self, in moderation of course"… (mehr)