Kaze to Ki no Uta is a mature manga, not because of the sexual themes, but because of how emotional the characters and the feelings they posses. This manga is beautiful, the complexity of the characters, the drawings, and the overall theme...is breathtaking. I realize that many people aren't into BoyLove (BL), but I highly recommend this manga. It demonstrates the emotional struggles of young men, suppressing their desires, as well as the battles that 14 year old Gilbert possess of a new found sexuality. This contains all the bad stuff and wraps it in a neat little bow. It doesn't glorify rape, murder, homosexuality, .....just presents it. It stands out awkwardly on how realistic the manga goes in depth, all the while remaining an interesting story. It contains many, many things that will turn peoples' noses up, but if you look past it, you will see something that horrifies yet, intrigues you.
This story follows a 14 year old Serge and his adventures at a Catholic school. He rooms with a boy, Gilbert, who sells his body in return for favors (such as homework, higher grades, money,). "Everything happens for a reason" is one quote that represents every character. Serge has to deal with his new found homosexuality, and the lewed nature of Gilbert. The art style is different, and may not appeal to everyone (this was one of the first yaoi of all time).
It contains many, many adult themes, and highly recommend it. There is no direct sex in it, but it shows the psychotic nature of us human beings. Why do I recommend it? Because it's realistic, something many people miss about manga in general. It is a short read, but it will leave a long lasting impression, wether it be good or bad is up to you.
