Story: N/A
It's a slice of life so you can't expect epic plots and what not, so it's more or less episodic, though that doesn't mean it's bad, just that there really isn't much of a story to tell.
Art: 9
I am thoroughly impressed by the art, especially the backdrops. The art is so detailed it's almost like looking at a photo. I have never seen backdrops that detract your attention away from the actual characters more than I have here. The hills and forests are so green, the skies are as blue as they are in real life, even the clouds feel alive as they drift slowly by, their edges lit brightly by the warm glowing sun.
The characters themselves aren't too bad either. The quality seems consistent along with no awkward moments where their features seem out of place.
Sound 9:
Didn't really like the OP and ED so there's the minus 1. However, the BGM just feels really nice with the original recorder compositions that offers a nice, relaxing and soothing sensation. A very good anime for in-between epic and action-packed anime. There's also the subtle sound of rain and the rustle of leaves from the trees that add a very natural feeling to it as you watch and listen. Never have I felt as calm as I did watching these episodes, feeling as though I was out in some rural area as I did. I hope they keep up such soothing, natural, subtle sounds.
Character 9:
The characters each have their own quirks and reactions to things. Their reactions to everyday events is quite pleasing as it's something that most people wouldn't have been able to enjoy, given the rural scenario, but if they did, would look back and definitely feel nostalgic. Hell, being a person who spends a lot of time reading, studying, gaming, etc. I would have yearned for a year or even a few months to have a few friends to wander about with, enjoying nature. But I guess we can't all be Non Non Biyori characters.
Enjoyment 10:
Nothing to have to be surprised by, nothing to have to be disappointed by, nothing to be enraged by, it's like watching a childhood that you could have had and feeling a little jealous for the fictitious characters. Carefree days, while being able to enjoy the small things in life (buying drinks from a vending machine, candy from the candy shop) sometimes seems such a much more pleasant time than going to school/work everyday only to feel stressed by the expectations, then only to escape by gaming, drinking etc.
Overall 10:
It's a very nice change of pace from tryhard shounen stories with their cliched plots and expected 'plot twists'. It's also a good break from action packed anime. It's something just to sink in and enjoy the natural sounds of rustling leaves, falling rain and whistling cicadas. In a way, you get to experience a different childhood through the characters and in just a small way, you feel a little envious for them.
