Along with getting to know these characters, we also get to know some people in their periphery, like Hiroto’s friend since childhood who’s now getting ready to be a father. His settling down is juxtaposed against Hiroto’s carefree lifestyle, and both men seem to notice what can be positive about what the other is doing.

Hirayasumi doesn’t supply any answers on how a person might best live their life, but it shows how different people attempt it. Natsumi, who worries a lot, is amazed when Hiroto tells her he doesn’t worry at all.

Like Hiroto, the manga feels relaxed, easygoing, and free flowing. There’s no exciting action-adventure here, but there are plenty of real world things to deal with, like going to school or work. It might be interesting to learn more about Hiroto’s background wanting to be an actor and then ultimately deciding to drop out of that line of work. Hirayasumi has won awards and been nominated for awards in Japan, and it has a unique, carefree, happy atmosphere that can feel nice against the rat race of life.

Story & Art: Keigo Shinzo
Publisher: VIZ Media
Translator: Jan Mitsuko Cash

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Danica Davidson is the author of the bestselling Manga Art for Beginners with artist Melanie Westin, plus its sequel, Manga Art for Everyone, and the first-of-its-kind manga chalk book Chalk Art Manga, both illustrated by professional Japanese mangaka Rena Saiya. Check out her other comics and books at www.danicadavidson.com.