Story: The story is about a boy named Natsume Takashi who could see yokai all his life, and when he inherits his grandmother, Natsume Reikos', "Book of Friends" he finds out that they both had the ability to see yokai. Now Natsume and his "bodyguard" Madara tries to return all of the names in the book to the yokai who had owned it.
Each episode Natsume, and Madara run into a new yokai and is asked to do something for the yokai. Whether it be returning their name or asking for help with something. It might seem like a very simple story, and it is but Natsume Yuujinchou is really about the relationships between humans and yokai as well as learning to understand them and live with them. Each episodes has a meaning or a lesson that doesn't feel forced but the complete opposite, you accept it wholeheartedly. It might be sad, bittersweet, or heartwarming but those different aspects is what makes this show so great.
Art: The art is different from your typical anime and it fits extremely well with the anime. It can be funny at times, and it can be downright beautiful as well. The way the world is drawn is absolutely beautiful and vibrant. The characters aren't too realistic but are drawn to fit perfectly with the vibe of the show.
Sound: My words can't really do justice to how beautiful the soundtrack is. It is so calming and soothing and it really fits extremely well with events that happen in the show. The music is never out of place and is an absolute joy to listen to. Even the opening and the endings are fantastic. If I had a sound track for this anime I would be able to listen to it all day. The music is really an experience of its own.
Characters: All the characters in this show are lovable and well developed, and the show really handles the growth of Natsume as a character very well.
The Yokai's are all very different and it makes watching Natsume and Madara learn, help, and bond with these different characters an absolute joy. Many of these yokai have beautiful, tragic, sad, and very interesting back stories which keeps you coming back to see or learn more about them.
Enjoyment: I cannot tell you how much I have re-watched this show. It is an absolute joy to watch through and through, over and over again. I love the themes, the message, and the sheer beauty that Natsume Yuujinchou has to offer.
Overall: Although no anime is ever perfect I want to say that this is perfection. It is an anime that can keep me entertained, intrigued, emotionally attached, and it has made me feel many different emotions that no other anime has made me go through. Everyone should watch or give this anime a try.
