Miracle Drawing! Novel Review

My Thoughts on Miracle Drawing!

I dove into "Miracle Drawing!" with a hopeful heart, always eager to explore a fresh take on the fantasy genre, especially one interwoven with the slice-of-life and shounen elements. The premise of a struggling artist gaining magical abilities tied to their art seemed promising, but my experience was a mixed bag.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the concept. A poor protagonist, trying to make his way in the art world with a unique gift, is a trope I usually enjoy. However, I quickly found myself grappling with the main character's personality. His seemingly constant self-deprecation and whininess were a bit much for me. I understand the author may have been trying to portray vulnerability and a lack of confidence, but it sometimes felt overdone, making it difficult to fully connect with him.

What Works Well

Despite my reservations about the protagonist, I found the core concept of the "miracle drawing" ability quite fascinating. The idea of art coming to life or being enhanced through magical means has a lot of potential for creative storytelling. I also appreciated the glimpses into the art world, even if some found them controversial. The author clearly has a passion for art, and that enthusiasm shines through.

Areas of Concern

My biggest issue, similar to what others have expressed, lies with the protagonist's initial attitude towards art, particularly classical pieces. The perception of him dismissing masterpieces as "predictable and boring" felt disrespectful and undermined his credibility as an aspiring artist. This, coupled with his constant need for validation, made it hard to root for him at times. I also saw some potential issues with the grammar in the translation, but it wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Final Verdict

"Miracle Drawing!" is a flawed but intriguing novel. While the protagonist's personality and some narrative choices might not appeal to everyone, the unique premise and exploration of art through a magical lens offer something different. I'd give it a cautious recommendation, advising readers to go in with an open mind and be prepared for a protagonist who might test their patience. Overall, I'd rate it a solid 3/5.