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Otomen, Vol. 3 (2009)

by Aya Kanno(Favorite Author)

4.12 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

1421524724 (ISBN13: 9781421524726)

languge

English

genre

Romance

publisher

VIZ Media LLC

series

Otomen

review 1: *Spoilers*I find Otomen to be a heartwarming read. We're introduced to Hajime Tonomine, Asuka's kendo rival, who in fact happens to be more similar to him than what he appears! Tonomine and Asuka dress as samurai (who look kinda like power rangers) to entertain the kids at a beauty event and then they help transform a girl in a makeover because Nikko sensei is running late. Asuka alters the outfit to look more interesting and Hajime is like a stylist doing her hair and makeup. It was hilarious when he said to her "I'll turn you into a butterfly" and the girl is blushing like crazy.It's interesting as the narrative focuses on gender and the complexities of male identity. Asuka and Hajime excel in kendo to prove their "manliness" and it was kind of sad how they're both sayin... moreg they had to give up what they love, then Asuka said, "There's no such thing as a perfect human being. Everyone has something buried within his heart that he can't give up completely".I think if a man has some of these traits its not a sign of weakness at all. Who are the people in society to judge who is and isn't a "man" based on someone else's ideals? Even with female identity, must she always be cute, passive and accepting?Hopefully as I read on in this series, Asuka will be more open about himself and who he is.
review 2: I still can't figure out why Asuka is so head over heels for Ryo. Obviously there's supposed to be something there, because a whole nation is swooning over the manga based on their "romance", but I just don't see the connection. I think you could replace Ryo with almost any other girl and the story would stay the same. They don't know much about each other; Ryo doesn't seem to be too interested in learning more and Asuka is too reserved or shy or whatever to even ask her out without a lot of prodding. This isn't exactly a fairy tale romance. (Even Kanno sensei said the Christmas chapter was boring!) The real focus seems to be the relationship between Juta and Asuka. Which leaves me wondering what the fallout will be when (if) Asuka finds out Juta is using him as shojo inspiration. less

Download links for: Otomen, Vol. 3

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