nikimarion's reviews
954 reviews

adventurous emotional slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This tale of three intertwined narratives that take place 1000 years apart (1012, 2012, and 3012) is positively enthralling.

TW/CW: lots of self-cutting, though I wouldn't classify it as the modern conception of self-harm.

Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez

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emotional funny reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I wasn't expecting this book to contain as many perspectives as it did, and I think the inclusion of so many characters' thoughts contributes to the freshness and pace of influence ration alloted to the reader. Everyone in this book is flawed in ways large and small, and the snappy Olga is a compelling protagonist. I'm loving hearing Puerto Rican reviewers dicuss this book, because it sparks many conversations about US (non) involvement during times of disaster and its continued gentrification of the island and about the many differing opinions of Puerto Rican people and Puerto Rican diaspora in NYC (and elsewhere). I encourage other readers to look into those reviews and discussions! Also, there is sexual assault late in the book that felt veryyyy unnecessary to me. I understand the point of including it, but I personally don't need that point to be made to me to understand the gravity of male entitlement and racism.

Content Warnings

Classmates by Asumiko Nakamura

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emotional fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated

3.75

This languid, fluid art style is so stunning that it's effortless to get wrapped up in the story. The small details and photographic snippets set the scene so well that readers will feel like they're with the characters in Japan's humid summer months. This book feels very visceral and nostalgic: it really encapsulates the newness and passion of first love between two students. My only concern is that

Spoiler

the 35-year-old teacher tries (and fails) to come on to his 17-year-old student. For me, if you're pursuing a minor as someone double their age, you're absuing your power, no matter what identity issues you're working through yourself.

Overall, though, this is a really magnetic read.

Boys Run the Riot, Volume 1 by Keito Gaku

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emotional hopeful 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

4.0

I really enjoyed this manga about a Japanese trans guy coming into his own, with the help of some unlikely friends. The fashion and art components are a really nice complement to the main character embracing his identity without shame. Very slightly reminds me of Itaewon Class, which is a good thing! Definitely looking forward to the next volume.

Content Warnings