Yona of the Dawn
a review by Watereda
a review by Watereda
Yona of the Dawn is, without a doubt, my favorite manga ever. What really makes this series stand out for me is how it blends so many genres together, the story never feels forced into one genre. While It has the romance and emotional depth you’d expect from a shoujo manga, it also offers shounen like action scenes, some political drama, comedy, and even mythological elements. No matter your age or gender there’s something in it that can interest you.
The main character Yona begins as a sheltered, naive princess who has lived a luxurious life, completely unaware of the struggles outside of the palace. However, her whole life changes when her father, the king, is assassinated. She's then forced to leave the palace with her guard Hak. What could have been a typical revenge story takes a different route from there onwards. Yona starts on a journey of self-discovery, learning about the people of her kingdom and trying to find the mythical dragons who are destined to help her. Her growth is one of the best written things in the series. She doesn’t become fearless or powerful in one day, the process is slow, filled with struggles, doubts, and small victories making her development feel genuine and earned. Seeing Yona transform from a scared, naive princess into a woman who stands on her own feet was very inspiring to me.
Other characters also play a huge role in why this series is so unforgettable for me. Hak is easily one of my favorite characters. He’s loyal, funny, and always ready to step in when Yona needs him, but he never overshadows her journey. And the story allows their relationship to develop at its own pace rather than rushing it. Then, there is Yoon and the four dragons. Each has a different personality, adding unique dynamics to the group. They are technically just some random characters brought together by fate but they feel more like a found family and I love it.
That being said, no story is without its flaws. Some parts can feel a bit slow, especially the political discussions, which, while important, can sometimes drag a bit, that's why It's not a 10/10 for me unfortunately.
Overall, it's a story about discovering strength within yourself and through the support of those around you, never giving up, and always striving to do your best. Yona’s journey inspires me, and her relationships remind me of the importance of trust, loyalty, and love. This manga means a lot to me. It’s not just a manga I’ve read, it’s something that’s stayed with me and shaped how I see some things in my life. I would recommend it to everyone ♡
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