I Can Speak with Animals and Demons

My Thoughts on I Can Speak with Animals and Demons

"I Can Speak with Animals and Demons" certainly presents a unique premise, and after diving in, I find myself with mixed feelings. It's a story with clear strengths and equally apparent weaknesses, making it a bit of a rollercoaster ride.

First Impressions

The opening is definitely attention-grabbing, though perhaps not always in the best way. The protagonist's less-than-heroic demise sets the stage for his reincarnation, and the initial chapters establish the fantasy world he's now inhabiting. It has a distinct Japanese novel vibe, which can be both a draw and a drawback depending on your preferences.

What Works Well

The core concept – a protagonist who can communicate with animals and demons – is undeniably intriguing. I also appreciate the slice-of-life elements woven into the narrative, offering glimpses into the protagonist's daily life and interactions with his family. His relationships, especially with his sister and mother, were engaging. The translation appears to be well done for the most part, allowing the story to flow smoothly.

Areas of Concern

My biggest reservation lies with the protagonist himself. His naivete, while perhaps intended to be endearing, often comes across as a bit too dense. I had a hard time believing that someone with memories of a past life would take so long to realize his unique ability.

Additionally, the pacing feels somewhat slow, with a significant portion of the early chapters dedicated to establishing the protagonist's childhood. While world-building is important, I felt it could have been accomplished more efficiently.

Final Verdict

"I Can Speak with Animals and Demons" has the potential to be a fun and engaging read, but it's not without its flaws. The unique premise and slice-of-life elements are definite strengths, but the slow pacing and the protagonist's frustrating naivete hold it back. If you're a fan of fantasy novels with a Japanese influence and are willing to be patient with character development, it might be worth checking out. However, if you prefer fast-paced stories with proactive protagonists, this one might not be for you. I'm sitting on the fence with this one. I think I'll give it a couple of weeks and come back to see if more chapters have been released and give it another shot.