Seishun Buta Yarou Series
Rascal Does Not Dream

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After reading the twelve additions to this series which have been translated so far, I think it's safe to say that the Seishun Buta Yarou series is undoubtedly, a masterpiece.

The story uniquely revolves around "adolescence syndrome," observed to be supernatural experiences due to the many difficulties presented during adolescence.

Sakuta Azusagawa is unlucky in his encounters with adolescence syndrome, almost prone to meeting people struggling with it. Guided by his vow to live in kindness, he seeks truth and ways to answer their pleas.
The subjects, all being cutesy women, and of course the most recognisable character in the story being a literal bunny ... girl may make it easy to regard as some weird amalgamation of fanservice. However, the messages of Seishun Buta Yarou go far beyond whatever weird first impression it may give off.

Even with the outlandish effects of adolescence syndrome, the causes remain somewhat regular. Things we're all bound to experience throughout our lifetimes. The novel makes it easy for readers to sympathize with, and understand the characters' hardships within the narrative. From things like bullying, or being unable to compare to someone else's achievements, the story tackles very common issues, ones embedded in society.

The characters are all also loveable and very well written. They all possess depth which doesn't allow for them to fall flat or seem pointless. They mesh perfectly, sharing jokes and banter between each other adding a layer of comedy, but also dealing with love and acceptance in a very real way.

Now the romance in this series is one of the things it excels at. The main couple is established early, and their relationship is surprisingly very healthy, even through the adversities that they are presented with. With everything that could distract them from their relationship being present, they never allow for such to happen. It's not done poorly or unrealistically either, as they often voice their issues and feelings, making for some emotional, hard-hitting moments.


With the series coming to an end soon, it's no falsity that it has me hooked. The interesting, unique premise is not betrayed by how well-rounded and relatable the characters are presented to be. The narrative constantly keeps you eager to know what follows at the end of each novel. If you're a fan of romance, drama, or mystery, this is a must-watch.

I have read the first eight books, and I will say this series tells a coherent story throughout the books, and everything from the second book until the seventh book is linked so it is very difficult to judge the independent book, if we were to judge the entirety of the book.

The book deals with the independence of the high school kids, being under the environment social pressure, and eventually over coming the expectations of the ones they love. Their emotions are being torn apart, as the go through a troubling time, which all of them end up affecting the main character Sakuta. Which not ... only drives the story forward in a unforceful way, but helps Sakuta grow as he understands about himself and the ones he love and care.

Also the writing style is very polished, as depiction and imagery is plentiful without being overly done and annoying like the light novels in the 2020s.

Very well executed first 7 volumes which flounders thereafter.

This is a story about a man called Sakuta. He is not relevant to the series and is rather featureless, the story's main appeal is rather its use of mystery. Its ability to connect disparate events that are extended over its incredibly long first arc over its 7 volumes. Sakuta meets a mysterious high school student at a point where he's at his lowest. He applies to her school hoping to find her and she's not there. That's basically it.

Unlike most light novels, the main conceit is not fully dealt with for several volumes. It lingers in ... the background unresolved, influencing various plots. This immediately makes it an achievement in the light novel space. What also sets it apart is its earnestness. It is not overly serious yet also fortunately not beckoned by irony and the prospect of being immune to criticism. Its biggest advantage is that it is also grounded, at no point does any spectacular feat of acrobatics or fight take place. This makes reading it a joy: conflict takes place in dialogue. It is also grounded in space, using real areas in the wider Tokyo metropolitan area by the sea side.

What did make me quite sad was the story after the resolution of the first arc. It is clear only a vague vision existed for what should happen after the first arc. What was a very grounded and tightly written story was hurriedly repackaged and sown together to shove a quite unnecessary second plot which was just unneeded.

To conclude, just read volume 1 to 7, and leave the series behind.