Subaru to Suu-san

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Why aren’t there stories that are simple and straightforward like this? Every time I get to find myself a simple story they make the plot more complex. I'm not saying it’s not a bad thing but just a simple storyline would be nice. This manga is just what I was looking for (my criteria of simple, it might be different for you guys) and exceeded my expectations.

This is truly an unappreciated manga, so this is why I make this review. Although it’ll be short because it’s only 13 ch in.

This story revolves around a couple Subaru and Asahina ,who are a normal couple until for ... some unknown reason Subaru turns to an elementary schooler and now lives with his girlfriend, who the people around them think are only siblings. Now Subaru needs to hide his identity and try to act like an elementary schooler while finding a way to return to adulthood.

Although it’s a cliche story, the way they made the situations realistic was well written. Usually in strange situations where reactions, dialogues or development come out bizarre, out place and unrealistic making the story really dislikable. In this case it does not happen but actually fits in with the story, where the main protagonist does things of who he is (an adult). The pacing of the story is great, it doesn't have any time skips and it doesn’t unskip details of the story. Although it’s a slice of life type of show. It is quite sad how hard the Subaru tries to return back to normal, so it can hit you with the feels.

The characters are really well written, it has realistic feelings to it, so that’s a 10/10 for me. The side characters are pretty fun and not annoying even though some are trying to be annoying to the protagonist, they are pretty fun and wholesome to watch.

The art of the manga is really unique, mostly the character designs where you can tell if the hair is straight, wavy or curly, it’s really noticable and well drawn. The lighting and shading are well made, you can tell if it’s day or not when they're in a room. I have to say Takahashi Natsuko has a gorgeous artstyle.

Although it’s only 13 ch in at the moment I’m really liking the characters and story. It’s a hidden gem and I can’t believe it’s so unpopular. I would love to hear more praise of this manga and the author. Although it’s a light slice of life story, it has some sad, heavy moments. Read it, you won’t regret it.

A normal couple, Yuu and his girlfriend, Mio are now living together ever since Yuu's body turned to that of a child. So now, to most of the outside world, they pretend to be siblings.

This may sound like a romcom scenario, but trust me; it is SO not. This isn't a comedy. It's barely romance. What it is is mostly slice of life and, for me, some heavy drama. Later in the series, it even gets mystery elements.

It's hard to imagine what life would be like for a couple if this happened to them. Sure, it'd be easy to get some laughs out of it, ... and it would be fair game for the writer. Yet, even if some comedy is there, I can't personally shake the feeling of the pain they're both going through. To be clear, it's not like the whole story is designed to be depressing, but to me, the mood it conveys all throughout keeps dancing along the line that separates drama from lightheartedness.

Also, the premise may be simple, but the execution is of high caliber! It feels like every single panel and ever word of dialogue is necessary. This is one of those mangas where I never skimmed through any of the dialogue and details because everything is compelling; the art, dialogue, and direction.