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notesfromthebookdrop's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
mesy_mark's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Most of this book was centered on the build-up of the tension the two main characters felt. Kohei is hearing impaired and blames himself when Taichi drops in on his lunch spot. Agree to be his note-taker in exchange for food our story starts out with Taichi trying to have Kohel see that he is not to blame for his hearing.
It was a cute build-up of the friendship that our MCs have. The artwork creates distant characters. This was a medium-paced read that could be read in one go.
It was a cute build-up of the friendship that our MCs have. The artwork creates distant characters. This was a medium-paced read that could be read in one go.
pabloandres's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
andre93na's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
gwenolabarr's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
This series is still ongoing, and my review of the overall series is subject to change. Note, this review encapsulates my thoughts for all I Hear the Sunspot releases (including Theory of Happiness, Limit, and Four Seasons).
The I Hear the Sunspot series by Yuki Fumino is a heartwarming, beautifully crafted exploration of love, ableism, and the experiences of the deaf community in Japan. The series portrays a thoughtful, respectful, and deeply moving depiction of what it means to navigate relationships while also dealing with physical and societal barriers.
The series also does a fantastic job of depicting the subtleties of everyday ableism, how small, often unintentional actions can marginalise people. What stands out is how these moments are handled with care, neither sensationalised nor downplayed, which gives the narrative an authenticity that’s rare to find in many manga exploring disability.
The relationship between Kohei and Taichi is not only realistic but also deeply moving. Taichi’s energetic and caring nature provides a wonderful contrast to Kohei’s reserved and more guarded personality. Their relationship is not defined by Kohei’s hearing loss, but the story doesn’t pretend that his disability isn’t a factor. Instead, it explores how it affects their communication, understanding, and growth as individuals.
This series is particularly special because it educates without ever feeling like it’s preaching. It’s a tender story of love, friendship, and acceptance, wrapped in a thoughtful exploration of ableism and the need for better accessibility and understanding in society.
The I Hear the Sunspot series by Yuki Fumino is a heartwarming, beautifully crafted exploration of love, ableism, and the experiences of the deaf community in Japan. The series portrays a thoughtful, respectful, and deeply moving depiction of what it means to navigate relationships while also dealing with physical and societal barriers.
The series also does a fantastic job of depicting the subtleties of everyday ableism, how small, often unintentional actions can marginalise people. What stands out is how these moments are handled with care, neither sensationalised nor downplayed, which gives the narrative an authenticity that’s rare to find in many manga exploring disability.
The relationship between Kohei and Taichi is not only realistic but also deeply moving. Taichi’s energetic and caring nature provides a wonderful contrast to Kohei’s reserved and more guarded personality. Their relationship is not defined by Kohei’s hearing loss, but the story doesn’t pretend that his disability isn’t a factor. Instead, it explores how it affects their communication, understanding, and growth as individuals.
This series is particularly special because it educates without ever feeling like it’s preaching. It’s a tender story of love, friendship, and acceptance, wrapped in a thoughtful exploration of ableism and the need for better accessibility and understanding in society.
chelseazhao's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
slow-paced
4.0
This was just as good upon reread as the first time!
I really love the characters and college setting. While I don't consider the first volume a full 5 star read, it sets us up for the rest of the series that I absolutely love!
I really love the characters and college setting. While I don't consider the first volume a full 5 star read, it sets us up for the rest of the series that I absolutely love!
Content Warnings
Minor: Ableism
jrhartauthor's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The absolutely emotional, compassionate, heartfelt storytelling of the characters in I Hear The Sunspot is truly perfect. It made me feel connected to them in stunning ways. Taichi's honesty, the way he looks out for and tries to make sure his friend is cared for, and the way he'd go to bat for him every time, is truly lovely. And the way in which Sugihara admits his feelings, the way his own fears and hopes come to the surface, and the rawness of the feelings between both characters shine to the surface make the story even more comforting to read. As someone who has hearing loss as well, I Hear The Sunspot is a staple read for me that I will be holding close to my heart again and again.