The 'Soft' Side of Manga
In the massive world of Japanese manga, the 'Boys' Love' (BL) genre can be a bit of a minefield for parents. It ranges from deeply problematic and explicit to some of the most touching coming-of-age stories on the shelf. Syundei’s Nakamura series falls firmly into the latter.
What makes this sequel work so well is that it doesn't try to raise the stakes into a melodrama. It stays in the lane of 'slice-of-life' comedy. Nakamura is still the same anxious protagonist we met in the first book, and his progress is measured in small, meaningful inches—like finally having a real conversation or sharing a hobby.
Why the Art Matters
For a modern teen, the art might look 'old,' but that’s the point. By channeling the style of the 1980s, Syundei taps into a specific kind of romantic comedy vibe that feels safe and classic. It avoids the hyper-polished, sometimes sterile look of modern digital manga, giving the characters more expressive, 'rubbery' reactions that fuel the physical comedy.
A Gateway for Intentional Readers
If you have a child who is interested in queer identity or romance but isn't ready for the heavier themes found in series like Heartstopper or the more mature end of the manga spectrum, this is your best bet. It treats the central crush as something normal, funny, and worthy of a happy ending. It’s a quick read, but one that leaves you feeling better after you’ve finished it.
For more context on how to navigate this specific genre, check out our guide: /guides/go-for-it-nakamura.
