Manga Review: Suzuka

Suzuka is manga written by Kouji Seo. Moving to a new city, a boy named Yamato seeks a new change in his life. As he crosses by his new high school, he is caught off guard by a girl performing a successful high jump over the height of 1.6 meters. Moving into his new apartment, Yamato finds out that the girl that he saw earlier lives right beside him, and that her name is Suzuka. As he becomes closer and closer to Suzuka, he wishes to become more than a friend. He eventually takes a chance and asks her out to the amusement park... only to get asked out by her instead! Near the end of the date, he puts forth his courage and asks her to be his girlfriend. Being rejected for an unknown reason, Yamato loses all hope. Being lectured by one of his friends, he realizes that he should not give up, and should keep trying. His whole new life starts from here.
After reading all 18 volumes of Suzuka thrice, the series remains in my must-read box. The story starts off immature... but grows much deeper as the plot develops. Throughout the plot, a series of themes can be pointed out, such as never giving up, and to taking that one step forward in the desire for change. The life of Yamato is depicted from the beginning of his high school years, all the way to university within this manga. In such a short time period, he learns much about himself and about the people around him.
Being able to relate to Yamato was what made Suzuka so much fun to read. With his life filled with relationship, romance, and problems, there was never a dull moment throughout the story. The issues that he faces are very common with many teenagers today. I recommend this to anyone who is looking something to change in their lives.

Review by Donald L.