Ijiranaide, Nagatoro-san review

ShaIIot9
Apr 03, 2021
(God I wish this was me)

First, let's get one thing out of the way; the first few chapters may put you off. It's a pretty terrible first impression. I can see how some people may find Nagatoro, the female lead, to be a complete bitch with how she treats the male lead (Senpai). I was somewhat the same and I was ready to just stop reading after the first few chapters, but I kept chuggin' along because, well, it's pretty different to what you'd usually find.

I like to look at the manga in its entirety and their relationship hand-in-hand, because yes: they DEFINITELY had terrible first impressions. However, while there was a rocky start, once you dig a little deeper into it, you'll find something to like.

What appealed to me is that the state of their relationship slowly changes as chapters pass, albeit slowly and subtly. Readers will come to realise that Nagatoro's view towards her Senpai develops gradually into affection (as unlikely as the first dozen chapters makes it out to be). As time passes, Nagatoro slowly grew on me. She isn't two dimensional; while she does get a kick out of bullying Senpai, calling him names and intentionally making him flustered, it isn't long before you'll notice the changes in her disposition. Things like moments of protectiveness whenever other people make fun of her Senpai a little too much or jealousy whenever he's involved with a girl that isn't her. It's not long before the 'bullying' is really just teasing.

Really cute to see.

Though the plot itself is rather straightforward: girl likes to mess with guy, guy puts up with it (or probably enjoys it). There isn't anything fancy when it comes to it, though despite that it's still enjoyable. There's nothing wrong with simplicity.

When it comes to characters, it's nothing home to write about. They're pretty barebones, Senpai is just referred to as Senpai, he doesn't have an actual name. He's just a pushover who enjoys art and has fluffy hair. The only noteworthy developments you'll find is Nagatoro's aforementioned view and approach towards Senpai, and to a lesser extent, Senpai towards Nagatoro. As enjoyable as Nagatoro is to see when it comes to her antics with Senpai, the side characters leave much to be desired. They don't do much aside for creating tension every now and then.

The art is in the same vein; nothing jumps out at you, except Nagatoro is pretty cute, not gonna lie. Oh, and I guess the mangaka isn't so great at drawing feet. If you know, you know.

All in all, a fun read once you're invested. Not exactly a full-course meal, but it's quite a snacc.
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