I am Smart Novel Review

My Thoughts on I am Smart

"I am Smart" is a fascinating blend of comedy, drama, and the supernatural, wrapped up in a gender-bending slice-of-life package. The premise alone grabbed my attention: a brilliant individual wakes up one day not only as a woman but also significantly less intelligent, albeit with newfound athletic prowess. It's a wild ride, and while it has its quirks, I found myself thoroughly entertained.

First Impressions

The initial chapters were a definite hook. The author does a fantastic job portraying the MC's identity crisis and the jarring shift in cognitive abilities. It's not just a simple case of suddenly being "dumb"; instead, the act of thinking too hard causes physical pain, forcing her to adapt in believable ways. I was immediately invested in seeing how she'd navigate this bizarre new reality.

What Works Well

What truly shines is the exploration of the gender-bending aspect. The story subtly weaves in the nuances of living as a woman, from navigating social dynamics to dealing with hormonal changes and altered tastes. It's handled with a delicate touch, making the transformation feel convincing and impactful. I also appreciated the attention to detail in portraying the MC's struggle to reconcile her past identity with her present self, clinging to old achievements while simultaneously embracing new hobbies and desires. The humor is well-placed and often stems from the MC's denial about her changing preferences and diminished intellect.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the slice-of-life aspects, the shift in focus towards livestreaming content felt a bit jarring. Although it's one of the novel's tags, the emphasis on gaming and viewer interactions can overshadow the more unique elements of the story. While the viewer interactions have their moments, they can feel generic at times. I found myself yearning for more exploration of the MC's real-life relationships and personal growth beyond the virtual world.

Final Verdict

Despite some pacing issues and a shift in focus towards livestreaming that might not appeal to everyone, "I am Smart" is a genuinely enjoyable read. The author's creative approach to the gender-bending trope and the MC's unique struggles make it stand out. If you're looking for a lighthearted yet thoughtful story with a dash of the supernatural, this novel is worth checking out. Just be prepared for a good dose of gaming content along the way. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.