You might expect the story of a 30-year-old bachelor taking in his relatives unwanted six-year-old child to be full of twisted fan-service or, even worse, lolita wish fulfillment. Fortunately, the show doesn't sacrifice it's principles to chase those fair-weather fans, and instead focuses on telling a simple tale about the trials and tribulations of suddenly becoming a parent.
Usagi Drop doesn't shy from the very real problems that a completely inexperienced adult would face when trying to raise a child, and that's what drives most of the episodes. The surrogate father Daikichi is tested throughout, and more than once he questions his resolve. Thankfully, if ever there was a child that could restore that will to go on, Rin is it. Precocious, bubbly and effortlessly cute, she could make even the most ardent critics of children reconsider their stance.
To further make the show stand out, the art is an unusual blend of watercolor hues and soflty drawn characters. It works remarkably well, and gives the world of Usagi Drop a very dreamy, almost nostalgic sort of quality.
The into/outro songs are fitting for the subject matter, and the title sequence itself has a wonderfully colorful and childlike design.
Usagi Drop was a refreshing surprise and a welcome deviation from the current anime norm. If you're looking for an anime that will put a smile on your face from the start to end of each episode, then look no further.
