Kimi Ni Todoke From Me To You Vol 1

Okay, let's talk Kimi Ni Todoke: From Me To You. Volume 1, specifically. The one everyone seems to adore.

I’m diving into it knowing it's basically a landmark in shojo manga. So, full disclosure, I went in expecting pure, unadulterated fluff.

Did I get it? Well… yes, and no. More on that later!

The Girl Everyone Misunderstands

Meet Sawako Kuronuma. Nicknamed "Sadako" because, well, she looks a bit like the girl from The Ring.

Poor girl just wants friends. But her looks scare everyone. Talk about a rough start!

Honestly, I kind of related. Haven't we all felt misunderstood at some point?

Then there's Shota Kazehaya. The golden boy of the school. Popular, friendly, the works.

He actually *talks* to Sawako. Gasp! The audacity! Suddenly, everyone's interested in her.

Is it just me, or does this trope feel… a little overdone?

Okay, here's where I might lose some of you. *Kimi Ni Todoke* Volume 1 is… fine. Like, perfectly adequate.

It's cute, sure. The art is pretty. But did it blow my mind? Not really.

Maybe it's because I've seen this type of story a million times. Or maybe I'm just a cynical grump. Who knows?

I feel like it's slow. Really slow.

We're introduced to the characters, and... not a whole lot else happens, if you really think about it.

Here's my big confession: I find the slow burn a *little* frustrating. I know, I know. That's the point!

But seriously, Sawako's internal monologues could fill a small novel. Girl, just *talk* to him!

I’m impatient! Maybe that's the problem.

The whole "misunderstanding leading to a tiny step forward, then another misunderstanding" dance gets tiring. Even if it’s intended to be cute.

Okay, I’m not a complete monster. There *are* things I liked.

Kazehaya seems genuinely nice. He's not just using Sawako to look good. (At least, I hope not!)

And Sawako's earnestness is actually kind of endearing. You root for her, even when you want to shake her and tell her to speak up!

So, will I read Volume 2? Probably. Curiosity has gotten the better of me.

I want to see if Sawako finally breaks out of her shell. And whether Kazehaya is truly as perfect as he seems.

But if you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed romance, this ain't it, chief.

Kimi Ni Todoke Volume 1 is a gentle stroll. A very, very slow stroll. Bring snacks.

Maybe I'll even change my mind about the whole thing. You never know! But for now, it's a solid "meh" from me.