This one was nice and cute for the genre. Nothing to complex and cliche but because of that, it goes straight to the point. Add that with a simple and chapter count and it also doesn't feel dragged out or overstays it welcome. Which I find to be a common problem with this style of romance stories. No fluff and is, again, cute.
Synopsis:
Because of her height Furuya Utako is shy and reserved. And despite her best efforts not to stick out, she unfortunately does. And to make matters worst Harada Naoyuki, the popular boy who sits next to her in homeroom and claims that he'd like to be friends. Although surprising at first, his straight forward attitude helps with her insecurities as the distance between them grows ever closer.
The story deals with how Furuya not only copes with her height but her mental image as well. Harada, because of his nature, may be blunt but means the best for her as he slowly but surely opens up her insecurities. And as the chapter progress, her shell, hard and rough is slowly opened by the classmates around her who are just not some random faces, but people with their own fears and worries as well. And as the chapters progress, you see Furuya not cope with her insecurities and grow as an individual, but repay her own blossoming feelings towards Harada.
The extended cast as well is not only very colorful as well but lean and support one another. And as such, acts as a bridge into helping the main romance blossom. Cozy is a word I would use to describe the cast. They do not have an incredible role, but serves it beautifully. And as such are a nice and welcomed glue to the story.
The artwork, although simple is very pleasing to the eye. I like as the series goes on certain aspects about the main character slows clears up in terms of her posture, stance and demeanor. Which not only shows confidence for who she is, but her willingness to grow. Plus it is all very pleasing to the eyes. Again, nothing crazy, but because of it's simplicity, it gets it's point really well.
I guess a negative would be again, how straight forward the narrative can be. If you have read the genre before you can almost predict half of the story beats. But again, that is more of a minor complaint because that is on paper. In actual execution however, because it is so standard, it can play with it's story beats in fun and enjoyable way that leaves a "feel good" effect for the reader.
As a whole, I would recommend this shoujo story. Although a bit short for some, because of how it does not waste the readers times shows the care into making the story into a fun and enjoyable bit sized romance. A neat little recommendation if you want something and what to get a idea for the genre!
