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Wandering Son #6
Wandering Son, Vol. 6
Shimura Takako's sensitive and charming manga series about two middle-schoolers wrestling with their gender identities continues. Faced with unwanted changes to their growing bodies, male-identified Takatsuki-san discovers the wonders of "breast binders," and female-identified Nitori-kun explores the limits of his ability to "pass." Also: the success of their performance of The Rose of Versailles in the fifth grade - in which the boys played the women and the girls played the men - inspires our protagonists to put on another gender-bending play for the junior-high school festival. They riff on Romeo and Juliet. Nitori-kun and his friend Chiba-san write the script together, but Chiba-san has an agenda: She wants to play Romeo, with Nitori-kun in the role of Juliet. But Nitori-kun wants Takatsuki-san to play Romeo... Chiba-san forces Nitori-kun to confront a question he's been avoiding. Are his feelings for Takatsuki-san those of a boy for a girl, a girl for a girl, or a girl for a boy? Meanwhile, Maho plans a trip to the beach with her boyfriend, and Nitori-kun must chaperone.
220 pages, Hardcover
First published February 26, 2007
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215 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 23, 2016
I would call this the body volume, as the middle schoolers that are the focus of this series see their bodies developing. But this story focuses on Nitori-kun, a boy who wants to be a girl, and Takatsuki-san, a girl who wants to be a boy. So if body changes are sometimes unsettling and somewhat unwanted for any kids, this is especially true for the two and kids like them. The latter gets interested in bras, the latter in breast binders, and so on.
The kids write a play, which is loosely based on Romeo and Juliet, but things don't work out so neatly. Chiba-san, Nitori-kun's friend, has a secret crush on him, and she wants to play Romeo, with Nitori-kun in the role of Juliet. So they have to talk about this stuff. And do, in the way young people talk about these issues, awkwardly, slantly.
The story is sweet, thoughtful, reality-based (vs. the lots of shrieking manga silliness you see so much) and character-based, with lots of reflective space and blushing and halting dialogue, and is pretty entertaining. A trans story for young people that anyone can learn from and enjoy.
The kids write a play, which is loosely based on Romeo and Juliet, but things don't work out so neatly. Chiba-san, Nitori-kun's friend, has a secret crush on him, and she wants to play Romeo, with Nitori-kun in the role of Juliet. So they have to talk about this stuff. And do, in the way young people talk about these issues, awkwardly, slantly.
The story is sweet, thoughtful, reality-based (vs. the lots of shrieking manga silliness you see so much) and character-based, with lots of reflective space and blushing and halting dialogue, and is pretty entertaining. A trans story for young people that anyone can learn from and enjoy.
May 26, 2018
This was super cute and adorable.
It's wonderful slice of life but I find myself wanting to have little breaks in between volumes, I can't marathon this manga.
For more info, check out my review of Wandering Son, vol.1
It's wonderful slice of life but I find myself wanting to have little breaks in between volumes, I can't marathon this manga.
For more info, check out my review of Wandering Son, vol.1
November 22, 2014
Didn't seem like much happened this volume but character development is still consistently good. Saori frustrates me so much. She's such a smart sensitive girl but she can't get over her bitterness.
July 30, 2014
Come check out my book blog! Teenage Bookaholic
SYNOPSIS: *Note: This is a review for the first six volumes of the series*
The period of adolescence is full of confusion, growth, and discovery. Shuichi Nitori and Yoshino Takatsuki are entering this time in their lives, along with their classmates of course. But both students share a secret that adds to the confusion of adolescence, and could damage their social life: Shuichi is a boy who wants to be a girl, and Yoshino is a girl who wants to be a boy.
Discovering each others' secret, they befriend one another and try to navigate through elementary and junior high school while coping with their shamefully perceived identities. Along the way, they meet challenges- teasing by classmates, uniforms, romances, and overnight field trips- but find new allies in a wide range of people- quiet classmates, strangers, even famous models! As they bloom into adulthood, can Shu-kun and Yoshino-chan find the confidence to be true to themselves?
REVIEW: It was a strange fate that this series happened upon me. I was in the library, and ducked into a random aisle up on the adult fiction floor. I pretended to be browsing at the books, when this series caught my eye. I looked at the summary on the back and was curious when it mentioned the protagonists are transgendered. It is not common to find many fiction books with a transgendered protagonist, let alone not have the issue consume the entire plot.
This series had a lovely storyline that, while focusing on children, was meant as a more mature read. It kept the focus on the protagonists internal struggles, while not fixating on that point and without making it worth pity. The storyline had some dragging points, but not enough to be put down. It had realistic scenarios, maybe a little too coincidental to be strung as such, but they could very much occur, and showed how common situations had an effect on their identity.
I found some characters to be difficult to distinguish because of the art style, but the dialogue was never confusing. It also served to teach about honorifics in names. Slightly confusing as a Westerner, but through the guide, it made sense. I also appreciated the dynamics in clothing, more than just holiday wear and school uniforms.
All in all, an eye-opening read on transgender, while not being consumed by transgender. Quick and addictive read with clean paneling. I almost hate that its a still continuing series because of having to wait for the translations!
SYNOPSIS: *Note: This is a review for the first six volumes of the series*
The period of adolescence is full of confusion, growth, and discovery. Shuichi Nitori and Yoshino Takatsuki are entering this time in their lives, along with their classmates of course. But both students share a secret that adds to the confusion of adolescence, and could damage their social life: Shuichi is a boy who wants to be a girl, and Yoshino is a girl who wants to be a boy.
Discovering each others' secret, they befriend one another and try to navigate through elementary and junior high school while coping with their shamefully perceived identities. Along the way, they meet challenges- teasing by classmates, uniforms, romances, and overnight field trips- but find new allies in a wide range of people- quiet classmates, strangers, even famous models! As they bloom into adulthood, can Shu-kun and Yoshino-chan find the confidence to be true to themselves?
REVIEW: It was a strange fate that this series happened upon me. I was in the library, and ducked into a random aisle up on the adult fiction floor. I pretended to be browsing at the books, when this series caught my eye. I looked at the summary on the back and was curious when it mentioned the protagonists are transgendered. It is not common to find many fiction books with a transgendered protagonist, let alone not have the issue consume the entire plot.
This series had a lovely storyline that, while focusing on children, was meant as a more mature read. It kept the focus on the protagonists internal struggles, while not fixating on that point and without making it worth pity. The storyline had some dragging points, but not enough to be put down. It had realistic scenarios, maybe a little too coincidental to be strung as such, but they could very much occur, and showed how common situations had an effect on their identity.
I found some characters to be difficult to distinguish because of the art style, but the dialogue was never confusing. It also served to teach about honorifics in names. Slightly confusing as a Westerner, but through the guide, it made sense. I also appreciated the dynamics in clothing, more than just holiday wear and school uniforms.
All in all, an eye-opening read on transgender, while not being consumed by transgender. Quick and addictive read with clean paneling. I almost hate that its a still continuing series because of having to wait for the translations!
February 17, 2019
I LOVE this series so much! Once again, my adolescent self would have benefited from having a series like this to read at that point in my life.
Confessing true feelings to friends don’t always go the way you think they may. The scene in the park was heartbreaking yet so triumphant for our protagonists.
Shu also seems to be taking bigger (and bolder) steps towards being a girl opposed to just wanting to wear girl clothes to be “cute”. All these scenes in this volume made me tear up.
Some friends & family just don’t understand. Nitori-Kun’s sister is the WORST!!! She’s definitely made my list of most hated fictional characters.
Yuki-San! I want a spinoff featuring this character! I want the backstory, her everyday life, and her and Shii-Chan’s future. Having her do the character introductions was interesting and totally provided some insight to her character. Her character has made some very inappropriate behavior choices in previous volumes...yet I like the inclusion of this character. I grew up “punk” and had some older friends who definitely upon reflection were not the best of role models, but having someone like me was better than nothing.
Very excited to see what happens in the next volume!
Confessing true feelings to friends don’t always go the way you think they may. The scene in the park was heartbreaking yet so triumphant for our protagonists.
Shu also seems to be taking bigger (and bolder) steps towards being a girl opposed to just wanting to wear girl clothes to be “cute”. All these scenes in this volume made me tear up.
Some friends & family just don’t understand. Nitori-Kun’s sister is the WORST!!! She’s definitely made my list of most hated fictional characters.
Yuki-San! I want a spinoff featuring this character! I want the backstory, her everyday life, and her and Shii-Chan’s future. Having her do the character introductions was interesting and totally provided some insight to her character. Her character has made some very inappropriate behavior choices in previous volumes...yet I like the inclusion of this character. I grew up “punk” and had some older friends who definitely upon reflection were not the best of role models, but having someone like me was better than nothing.
Very excited to see what happens in the next volume!
December 10, 2017
While the ages of the characters are still a bit unrealistic to be taking all of these ideas so serious;y, I thought this volume demonstrated more balance in how the characters are communicating, and how they are dealing with it as middle schoolers. The range of characters explored in this volume was great, with a refreshing focus on Mako and Saori's awkward alliance on Shu's behalf. Yoshino is coming into her own, but still seems undecided of exactly how she wants to be seen by the rest of the world, which makes sense. I think Shu's open secret will soon get back to his parents as he continues to anger his sister, so that probably won't be pretty. But good for him and Saori for having such success with the play!
February 19, 2020
So I have made it through six volumes of this graphic novel, eh?
Our plot continues with an ever-increasing cast of characters, making it somewhat difficult to remember everyone's stories.
The story is still moving at a relaxed pace through the school year. This volume we focus on the culture festival, an annual tradition at Japanese schools where each class hosts its own event.
My emotions weren't really affected much in this volume, but I am curious to see how our main characters handle the new issues they encounter. If you eliminate the standard manga silliness, there is a lot that rings true to life.
Our plot continues with an ever-increasing cast of characters, making it somewhat difficult to remember everyone's stories.
The story is still moving at a relaxed pace through the school year. This volume we focus on the culture festival, an annual tradition at Japanese schools where each class hosts its own event.
My emotions weren't really affected much in this volume, but I am curious to see how our main characters handle the new issues they encounter. If you eliminate the standard manga silliness, there is a lot that rings true to life.
June 8, 2024
I hated it. I really liked it until the last couple of chapters though, like I really liked it, liked the characters, found them very relatable, so relatable, the other characters were nice too. But then, then what the trans boy doesn't want to be a boy anymore? It was a phase? wtf. seriously, wtf. I hate it. I absolutely hate it. I wish I'd only read it until they were in middle school. The rest of it ruined the whole story for me. And I also hate how that amazing girl Saori, started going out with a bully in the end. Like wtf. Just wtf. I hated it.
August 19, 2020
This one is about keeping back the advance of puberty, sexual orientation and a retelling of Romeo and Juliet.
The details of the story are the things that make this a sensitive story. Dark hairs on arms, budding breasts and the realization that if they are going to continue to pursue their dream of becoming then it may mean surgery and some hard times.
The details of the story are the things that make this a sensitive story. Dark hairs on arms, budding breasts and the realization that if they are going to continue to pursue their dream of becoming then it may mean surgery and some hard times.
September 21, 2017
Still liking the series but this volume was a bit of a lull, it didn't seem to advance the story and the characters went in circles with their specific concerns. Hopefully the next one picks up again.
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July 30, 2019Genre: manga, slice of life
2 LGBTQ main characters: transgender
1 LGBTQ side character: transgender/gay (unsure which)
Importance of identities to plot: 4/5
Romance: 1/5
Coming out: no
Notes: TW transphobia. The kids put on a play! Also Takatsuki-san learns about chest binders.
2 LGBTQ main characters: transgender
1 LGBTQ side character: transgender/gay (unsure which)
Importance of identities to plot: 4/5
Romance: 1/5
Coming out: no
Notes: TW transphobia. The kids put on a play! Also Takatsuki-san learns about chest binders.
August 14, 2018
More pls
December 28, 2018
I don’t know (as of 2018) if I want to finish reading this series; however, I do admire Takako Shimura for her stories featuring LGBTQA+ characters, storylines, and topics.
February 22, 2019
7th grade trans girl and trans boy and various friends in Japan.
January 31, 2020
Pretty good sweet LGBT theme manga! Good story and loved the art😻👍😁❤️
September 9, 2021
Probably my favourite so far with folks more confident about their choices regarding which way they want to dress. Shu in Maho's underwear is so cute!
July 5, 2022
Sunmer vibes 😎☀️🌞🍉🕶⛱ oh no transphobia
February 22, 2017
It was OK but I feel I'm forgetting a lot of what happens with the side characters.
But man, poor Shu.
But man, poor Shu.
April 22, 2022
*Reread 4/21/2022*
I want to finish this series, so I reread this volume and I surprised myself by how much I remembered because I thought I didn't remember anything. I have basically the same thoughts as my original review, so I don't have too much to add. I feel so bad for Shu. They have to deal with so many around them telling them how they should be acting or feeling. On both ends where Chiba's pushing Shu to be a girl, but like only for her? And then Maho's being the worst about Shu wanting to try "girly" things. Protect Shu at all costs.
*Original Review 3/8/2021*
Nitori is so cute!!! I love them so much and I just want them to be happy and get everything they want in life. Maho and Chiba frustrate me a little, but they're children and they still have plenty of room to grow. I don't quite understand why Maho is so mean to Shu, if it's jealousy or ignorance or what. I don't like the way she treats them. And Chiba is also a frustrating one. She's trying to be helpful, but less for Nitori's sake and more for her own?
I want to finish this series, so I reread this volume and I surprised myself by how much I remembered because I thought I didn't remember anything. I have basically the same thoughts as my original review, so I don't have too much to add. I feel so bad for Shu. They have to deal with so many around them telling them how they should be acting or feeling. On both ends where Chiba's pushing Shu to be a girl, but like only for her? And then Maho's being the worst about Shu wanting to try "girly" things. Protect Shu at all costs.
*Original Review 3/8/2021*
Nitori is so cute!!! I love them so much and I just want them to be happy and get everything they want in life. Maho and Chiba frustrate me a little, but they're children and they still have plenty of room to grow. I don't quite understand why Maho is so mean to Shu, if it's jealousy or ignorance or what. I don't like the way she treats them. And Chiba is also a frustrating one. She's trying to be helpful, but less for Nitori's sake and more for her own?
September 15, 2014
What's not to love about this series? I mean really. In this one there is another play, but our main characters do not get the starring roles. Instead their friends do, much to everyone's disappointment. Things are getting a little more tense all around, and I can't wait for the next volume which I believe comes out this month. Better order it!
More coherent review next time. I'm writing this review quite awhile after reading it. Shame on me.
More coherent review next time. I'm writing this review quite awhile after reading it. Shame on me.
March 2, 2014
Still a fan of this series, though this volume had less to it than previous ones. This part had less to do with identity and complicated friendships, and more about a school event and a new character's jealousy. Maybe the author was trying to prevent the series from being pigeonholed for its trans content?
August 6, 2014
This volume was great but not as great as the previous volumes. I don't even know why. There's still proper character development and I enjoy this a lot. Maybe I wish things would happen faster or something.
May 4, 2014
Oh man, this series is picking up the pace. I love seeing Shu and Takatsuki growing up and developing their gender identities.
May 25, 2014
Became a little confusing as the cast of characters expanded and evolved, but still a wonderful, hopeful, and lovely read.
July 3, 2014
It took no more than 10 pages of this volume to have me in tears.
July 27, 2014
Fantastic series, but not much happened in this volume.
August 30, 2014
A lot of my favorite graphic novel series have a lot of kids being in love with their friends, who love other friends- what does that say about me? Can't wait till #7 is translated into English!
June 24, 2017
Very cute. Glad the roles of the play weren't given to the main characters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2015
why do I enjoy reading this there is something wrong with me but i cannot keep myself from reading the next ELEVEN VOLUMES
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews