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This manga is so near and dear to my heart. It is so enjoyable to read, and even on my third re-read, there were so many points where I was just laughing out loud just from the silliness of the characters. Bisco Hatori does a great job of characterization, making everyone stand out and she works so hard to make sure no small detail is overlooked (for example: mori’s favorite book is don quixote! honey’s favorite subject is math! — these details are briefly mentioned but come back into the story when you least expect it). I loved reading all the small little things she added about the characters, the asides she did every volume about almost not being able to meet the deadline, and the extra stories she added for the reader. As you read over 18 volumes, you truly love the members of the host club as the silly rich kids they are. As I read, I truly didn’t want their adventures to stop, even if it was just a normal school day. Even though this is mostly a comedy, it is surprisingly touching as you watch the characters develop and grow tremendously past their traumas and problems. There were so many moments when I was in tears.
One complaint is that the artwork especially in the beginning can be a little hard to decipher at first (it is quite messy), but the artwork really improves as the story goes on and this problem disappears a few volumes later. there is a lot to absorb (in terms of dialogue and art) in every panel though…
I would recommend this to all my friends for a heartwarming slice of life read that is surprisingly very emotional. Wven if you have watched the anime, the manga goes so much more in-depth that I think re-reading it from the beginning would be the best. my favorite character is kaoru!
