Our Colors

Gr 9 Up–A gay high school student finds the courage to reveal his sexuality to friends and family through an unexpected friendship with a local cafe owner. Sora knows he’s gay, but is terrified of telling anyone. He masks his true feelings from his parents; his best girl friend, Nao; and especially his crush, Yoshioka. Hiding his sexuality becomes a strain, and seeking relief, he flees school to visit the ocean. His impulsive trip leads to a chance meeting with a welcoming local cafe owner, Mr. Amamiya. Sora discovers in Amamiya a confidant who is both gay and willing to listen, and their conversations and confessions lead both to healing and renewed confidence. Sora’s coming out is a multistep process, alternating between yearning and lingering fear, and Tagame’s tale is meditative and powerful. As Sora finds the courage to tell Nao and his parents about himself, Tagame’s pacing for every awkward conversation and weighty silence is resonant and true to life. There are no romantic high jinks or dramatic reveals, and Tagame’s artwork eschews exaggeration. Tagame uses Sora’s sketches, painted illustrations, and his observations on colors to reveal his state of mind.