Merman in My Tub Vol. 1 by Itokichi

Translated by Angela Liu 3 stars Tatsumi is minding his own business when he comes across a stranger in need. He offers help only to end up with a merman in his bathtub with no intention of leaving. Overall a fun read. I enjoyed the premise and loved the different characters that show up. The…

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That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Vol. 2

Story by Fuse Adapted by Taiki Kawakami Characters by Mitz Vah Translated by Stephen Paul 4 stars A great continuation of the series. This volume coincides with episodes 6-8 of the anime. In this one, we see Rimuru continue to develop the town and come across some new companions who may make things more complicated…

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How Do You Live? by Genzaburō Yoshino

Translated by Bruno Navasky Foreword by Neil Gaiman 4 stars Much like the notebook Copper’s uncle writes to him, this is a great book to read at various stages in life, picking up new meaning that didn’t click on the previous read. I found the translator’s note especially helpful in understanding the context of the…

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Romantic Killer, Vol. 1 by Wataru Momose

Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Such a fun series. I really enjoyed the show so wanted to read the manga. So far the show sticks very closely to the original story. Anzu has three great loves in life: gaming, chocolate, and her cat, Momohiki. But when a mischievous fairy named Riri shows us with…

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The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes: Ultramarine Vol. 2

Story by Mei Hachimoku Illustrated by Koudon Translated by Alexa Frank 5 stars A fantastic second volume in the series. In this one, we learn more about the tunnel itself as Kaoru and Anzu run experiments to figure out how it works. Their unlikely friendship develops and an old rival turns out to be more…

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Cat on the Hero’s Lap Vol. 1 by Kousuke Iijima

Illustrated by Shiori Translated by Alan Cheng and Rowena Chen 4 stars Adorable and hilarious. Red and his companions, Grace and Aina, set out to defeat the demon king. There’s just one problem. A stray cat has taken a liking to Red and sits on his lap any chance he gets. Everyone knows you can’t…

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I Think Our Son Is Gay, Vol. 1 by Okura

Translated by Leo McDonagh 4 stars Initially I wasn’t sure about this based on the title, but it was pleasantly sweet. Hiroki’s mother is pretty sure her son is gay. His various slipups seem to confirm her suspicions. Through it all, she is caring, accepting, and patient with him, always letting him know that she…

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Slumbering Beauty, Vol. 2 by Yumi Unita

Translated by Angela Liu 4 stars A fitting conclusion to the story of Yoneko, her friendship with Nerimu, and her unconventional apprenticeship as a slumber spirit. In this volume, we really see Yoneko debating whether she’d like to be a slumber spirit or not. I absolutely loved her connection with Nerimu and how it builds…

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