Yuriko Akase

If we can all stop DROOLING over the gorgeous, FULLY-COLORED artwork (I don’t even wanna think about how long it took to use watercolors for each scene), let’s talk about the story. This is a spaced out, quirky love story when you boil it down to its ingredients. There’s even a ragtag bunch of pirates who are fun and more than just fodder for the good guys to beat up.

Sazan’s bashful and a little dopey but kind-hearted, and he meets Mina when she gives him a ride home from work. Trouble follows her everywhere, but Sazan doesn’t mind. I like that Mina has more character than the usual manic pixie girl. She doesn’t just fall in love with the first person who shows her kindness. Sazan also has more agency than just sitting around waiting for somebody to make him interesting.

The initial connection between the two is fast and cute. The way Mina innocently looked at him so wide-eyed honestly, reminded me of Ponyo, and I try my best not to rely on comparisons. It’s insta-love, but it works so well. the story's romantic without there really being a kiss. there was a peck tho ;) Also, the characters are in their twenties too! I’m so used to reading YA fiction I was a bit taken back to see characters my own age.

Lastly, y’all never learn with these doggone robots! well-intentioned robot or AI without emotions goes down the destroying-humans path? It’s been done before, but it’s how ya do it. I didn’t mind the trope here

I loved reading this! I felt like I just watched a movie. I had a great experience, and I was cheering the characters on every step of the way.… (altro)