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*may contain subtle spoilers*

The entire shoujo community has been blessed again with another epic Motomi Kyousuke masterpiece.

Entering a person's subconscious through mysterious doors and cleaning the mess in their mind and hearts: that's the simplest way to explain this story's concept, but there's much more to it than what meets the eye.
In my personal opinion and perspective, this story might have subtle connections with real life issues of a person's mental state despite its unrealistic fantasy element- specifically talking about depression. The heaviest volume - the third one - contains quite a lot of dark drama as well as attempted suicide. A person's ... heart can be corrupted by malicious thoughts and darkness manifesting as "bugs" - and in this story, depression's form in hidden under the disguise of these small but terrible insects.
If taken seriously and not just as an entertainment material, this can bring up a table of heavy discussion about taboo topics such as depression and other mental disorders. Just like in real life, the way it is handled in the story is not very lightly, but to keep it simple and appropriate without being too pretentious and preachy, it is presented in the supernatural way with metaphors and grunge visual presentations. As we empathize and feel with the characters, we dive into what lies beyond their thoughts and inner feelings - inside and beyond that door.


But despite the heavy theme, Motomi delivers the story well with the perfect balance of mystery, romance, drama, comedy, and enough suspense to make readers wanting more. She knows how to blend in the serious atmosphere with light and fluffy scenes without looking too off or misplaced, and that's what makes this series pleasing and easy to read. It was also enjoyable to see cameos from her previous work, Dengeki daisy, appear a few times. Aside from the fantastic art (she has improved lots since Beast master) and shoujo fan service (i'm talking about hot, blushing bishounens!), her signature style in storytelling -- having a strong-willed, anti-stereotypical heroine and a good sense of romantic development -- is another factor that makes her one of the best shoujo writers out there.

All in all, i recommend QQ sweeper to all fans of well-written shoujo and romance, and for those who are looking for a short good read. To western readers, Viz media licensed QQ sweeper, which means you can support the author by buying the english version which you can enjoy! I have bought the complete 3-volume set which was worth my time and money, and I'm sure it will definitely be worth yours, too.

underneath the facade of a simple and adorable storyline lies a hidden message tactfully concealed by well-developed characters and a good sense of humour. This manga, under the disguise of a normal shoujo, subtly tackles the taboo subject of social norm and sexual individuality.

A feminine boy and masculine girl.
It's not typical for a shoujo manga to use these as their plot device, yet the author skillfully executes such a delicate subject in a fashionable and subtle manner.
It's also risk to touch such topic in the realm of shoujo, for its appeal on the target audience is less popular than your ... stereotypical setting.
Traditionally (and mostly supported by fairy tales), the knight in shining armour is supposed to be brave and strong to save the damsel in distress. A knight, a prince, a king, you name it. The roles of men have always been the saviour, the protector, the shield. Even with your typical character twists in this modern generation, men are the "devils", the "most popular guy in school", "the strongest delinquent", "the athlete" who eventually falls for the heroine and protects her from danger, like bees and thirsty bitches.

Mizutama Honey Boy shows you the exact opposite. A weak, physically-challenged hero who's extremely talented at sewing, cooking, and all the activities that "girls are supposed to be good at" is in love with our strong, six-packed, and stoic heroine.
The obvious clash of personalities makes a good comedy, but in reality, this comic relief hides the cunning true nature of the message behind it.
The main characters play a huge role in conveying a controversial issue in the real world, and they do so in a way that it's very hard to criticize, because they make really good points you can't easily shrug off.
All the other supporting characters play a significant role in bringing out the best in our protagonists, making them stand out among the rest of shoujo heroes and heroines.
Unlike other series on the same category *coughs*otomen*coughs*, this one doesn't have any direct antagonists who clearly opposes the protagonist's nature. Instead, there's the father, who obviously mourns for his son, but deep down it is shown that he has accepted his fate and the only thing he could do was cry about it. (Literally, every time you see him, he's crying)
The thing is, this will make you question the real world, 'what is wrong with defying societal standards? What is wrong with being a girly boy or a boyish girl? Just what is wrong with being yourself?' And the answer is right under our noses, and perhaps in this series.

What makes this story so unique is its compelling way of storytelling, like a children's picture book capable of educating people about intricate political and social issues, but in an ingenious way where children can still innocently enjoy and perhaps subconsciously learn from. It is devastating to see how underrated this series is, with so much potential in its daring material. It's definitely one of the hidden gems in shoujo manga.

All in all, Mizutama Honey Boy is not your typical fluffy mushy romance manga, yet it's capable of making you think it is.