A review by saramarie08
Silver Spoon, Vol. 6 by Hiromu Arakawa

5.0

Hachiken’s first equestrian competition is finally here, yet still amidst the planning for the Fall Festival. Hachiken likens the pressure of competing to taking a difficult exam, and this helps him focus on riding and jumping with Chestnut, his horse. Ayame Minamikujou, a competitive girl from Mikage’s middle school, is also competing in the equestrian match, and her overconfidence doesn’t hide the fact that she doesn’t understand the rules of the competition. She swears to be the rival of Mikage, even though Mikage is in a higher class than Minamikuyou. So she sets her sights on Hachiken as well. Once the competition is over, it’s time to make the final preparations for the Fall Festival, but Hachiken is litterally running himself ragged with all the different events he’s coordinating!

Minamikujou is super annoying but hilarious because she understands nothing. Mikage is such a nice person that she doesn’t care about the rivalry at all and instead wants to know where Minamikujou gets her hair done. The entire equestrian competition is full of funny moments as each student handles their nerves and tries to do their best with their horse. I also love how Hachiken's brother keeps popping up in the most random of places, always food-related, and always so proud of Hachiken despite Hachiken's feelings towards him. As always, Arakawa's attention to detail when it comes to agriculture, mixed in with her signature humor and illustrations, makes this title extremely enjoyable.

Sara's Rating: 10/10
Suitability Level: Grades 7-12

Read more graphic novel reviews at www.graphiclibrary.org.