Hone no aru Yatsu Novel Review

My Thoughts on Hone no aru Yatsu

"Hone no aru Yatsu," which translates to "A Guy With Bones," presents a unique premise: an amnesiac skeleton navigating a world that isn't exactly brimming with magic or other undead. I went into this story expecting something different, and it mostly delivered.

First Impressions

The initial chapters are undeniably charming. The concept of a skeleton MC, devoid of memories and just trying to figure things out, is immediately appealing. It's a breath of fresh air in a genre often saturated with power fantasies and world-domination plots. The slice-of-life aspect shines through early on, promising a focus on day-to-day experiences rather than epic battles. I was definitely hooked by the sheer novelty of it all.

What Works Well

The story's strength lies in its ability to create a lighthearted and often funny atmosphere. The protagonist's awkwardness and lack of common sense, stemming from his amnesia and, well, being a skeleton, contribute to many humorous situations. There's a certain innocence to his interactions, and the budding friendships he forms feel genuine. I also appreciated the absence of typical tropes like level grinding or a relentless pursuit of power. It's a refreshing change of pace. The focus on the mundane, on the protagonist simply existing and interacting with the world, is what makes this story stand out.

Areas of Concern

While the laid-back nature of the story is a major draw, I can see how it might not appeal to everyone. The protagonist's passivity could be frustrating for some readers. There's a fine line between a "calm protagonist" and a "pushover," and I felt the story sometimes teetered on the edge of the latter. The MC's willingness to be manipulated or forced into situations, while perhaps intended to be comedic, occasionally felt uncomfortable. I hope the author addresses this aspect and allows the protagonist to develop a stronger sense of agency as the story progresses.

Final Verdict

"Hone no aru Yatsu" is a quirky and endearing story with a lot of potential. Its focus on slice-of-life elements and its unique protagonist make it a worthwhile read for those seeking something different. However, the protagonist's passivity might be a point of contention for some. Despite this, I'm invested enough to see where the story goes and hope the MC finds his backbone, figuratively speaking, of course.