Not So Shoujo Love Story, Vol. 1

Gr 10 Up–When the nerdy, manga superfan Rei is finally ready for some romance in her life, she hopes it turns out to be as perfect as a shoujo manga story arc. And when she zeroes in on the school’s prince, Hansum Ochinchin, her hopes get even higher. However, when her popular classmate, Hanna Scholler, seems to emerge as competition for Hansum’s attention, Rei is ready for battle. Things get really turned on their head when Hanna reveals she has feelings not for Hansum, but for Rei. With more Webtoons making their way to print, its finally time for this popular manga to enter the fray. Curryuku’s full-color artwork shines throughout, with a fun art style that never takes itself too seriously. The dialogue is utterly humorous, though readers may miss more dramatic displays as the narrative rolls along. The characters are all loveable in their own ways, with over-the-top, zany antics providing entertainment and interest from start to finish. In the end, Curryuku convinces readers that not all love stories have to follow the linear shoujo recipe. There are many different ways to love, and this title acts as a strong advocate for inclusivity.