The manga primarily took place over the course of a summer holiday, when a pair of sixth-graders connected. The boy, a soccer kid raised by single mother, had become disillusioned after his favorite coach is hospitalized with cancer. The girl, an unusual kid conspicuously taller than her classmates, carried with her an unimaginable burden. Yes, there’s eventually the development of that first love, but don’t be mistaken: this is heavy stuff, more nuanced and wistful than what seems to be your standard puppy love scenario. There’s melancholia frequently etched on the pages of this manga, as the kids transitioned from innocent life into a cold world full of harsh truths.
Kaori Ozaki paced her story very well within a single volume, and I don’t think it should be any longer or shorter than it is. Her art isn’t really detailed or especially distinct, but still carried significant impact mainly through effective close-ups and powerful visual moments. What’s also important to note is how, despite the eventual subject matter (also a very real issue in society), she didn’t make this just to sadden or depress you. Kamisama ga Uso wo Tsuku may not be a fluffy fairy tale, but it does have joyous and warm moments, as well as depiction of that indescribably wonderful feeling when you start experiencing what it’s like to deeply care for someone. In the end, the closing note is sweet and gentle, emphasizing the hope for a better tomorrow.
Recommended for its atypical bittersweet romance and for bringing up the important fact that there’s only few things sadder than children forced to mature a long way before they’re supposed to.
