For all intents and purposes, I'll be reviewing the first 19 chapters, or the "first season" if you will.


STORY: 7.25/10
The premise, while similar to the plot found in [Nozoki Ana]-- is done at a more light hearted level. You aren't taken for emotional rollercoasters, you won't cry your heart out, nor will you feel empty upon finishing certain chapters. Of course after removing the aforementioned, it will definitely fall short of it's predecessor. However, let it be known that it really isn't wasn't a deal breaker for me and if you're able to remove the comparison thoughts out of your head and allow yourself to treat this manga as a stand-alone-you might be able to enjoy it much more. Nozo x Kimi places more emphasis on comedic situations, ecchi scenes, jokes, dialogue and character interactions. Romance takes a backseat and hovers along on the sides but it is definitely present; and I'm totally fine with that.


ART: 7.75/10
One word- refined. I mean seriously, the art work in this manga is done very well. Panels have a distinct sharpness to them. The designs for all the characters are well drawn, easy on the eyes and were inked uniquely enough to be appealing so there shouldn't be any mix ups or confusion. However, it's pretty clear that some of the characters, the male and female leads to be exact, resemble the leads in [Nozoki Ana]. The pair in [Nozoki Ana] feels like what the main couple in this story would look like post high school and in the college setting. Putting that aside, the attention that the mangaka paid to the character expressions are easily the highlight of the manga. The background details while not breathtakingly amazing, match the high school life setting that this manga takes place in.


CHARACTERS: 7.5/10
Despite being almost carbon copies of the protagonists in [Nozoki Ana], I do not wish to hold our characters in this story in that kind of negative light. Are our characters incorporated well into this manga? Yes they are. Is the on-screen chemistry and interactions between our main characters there? Very much so. Can the supporting characters do their jobs when required and offer more than simply making an appearance? Absolutely. They are all well rounded characters with their own strengths and weaknesses and they felt very human and relatable; for that, deserves its own merits.


ENJOYMENT/OVERALL: 8/10
Coming off reading some emotional and darker themed mangas, Nozo x Kimi was a joy to read. A breath of fresh air that cured me of minor PMDS (Post Manga Depression Syndrome). It provided laughs yet had me scratching my head at times. It made me grin and sometimes cringe at the cutesy-romancey scenes. I'm patiently waiting and extremely looking forward for the next season to be released so that should be a clear sign of my overall enjoyment. Whether you're coming off [Nozoki Ana] or a fresh reader, you should be able to enjoy reading this manga and I would recommend it to all sorts of audiences.