Manga Review: Say I Love You, Volume 10, by Kanae Hazuki

Rating (Out of 5): ~4

Publisher: Kodansha Comics

Release Date: October 2015

Volumes: 15+

Spoilers?: No.

Buy it here: Amazon. Barnes and Noble. Book Depository. Powells. RightStuf.

Volume: 1. 9. 11.

Goodreads Synopsis:

"THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME

Mei and Yamato prepare for their second Christmas as a couple. The year before, a cold had got Mei down, but this year she’s determined to go all out, and the two plan a party at Yamato’s for all their friends. A gathering this size would’ve been unimaginable to Mei just a few years before! When the day finally arrives, she begins to worry… has Mei bitten off more Christmas cake than she can chew?"

Review:

This volume really shows how far Mei has come. Christmas comes, as does her birthday, and she has plans with her friends. And for once, she actually feels like part of the group. And when they find out it’s her birthday, it really shows her how important she is to them, and how much they all care. Daichi and Kyoko even make sure to tell her what kind of impact she’s had on them. And all of them makes her remember the happy memories she has of her past, particularly with her parents.

It’s a real maturing moment for Mei, and it all builds up to a maturing moment in her relationship with Yamato. This has been building for a while, but Mei’s been too afraid and embarrassed, but it’s perfect here. It’s the exact moment it needs to be for them, sweet and important and loving, and the time after is realistic and honest. It’s perfect. Plus, I love in particular that Yamato emphasizes that they can stop at any time.

Then there’s afterward, when Mei gets to talk to her friends, and we see their real friendship growing.

I just love this series. Everyone is moving forward at this point, and I can’t wait for the next one.