Ordinary I and Extraordinary Them

My Thoughts on Ordinary I and Extraordinary Them

"Ordinary I and Extraordinary Them" is a web novel that piqued my interest with its seemingly simple premise: an average guy surrounded by extraordinary individuals. However, diving into it, I found a story that's more complex and, at times, frustrating than I initially anticipated. It's a slow burn, that's for sure, and whether that's a good thing or a bad thing really depends on your personal taste.

First Impressions

Initially, I was a bit put off by the main character. He comes across as whiny and difficult to relate to. His interactions with his supposedly close friends felt forced, and his constant negativity became grating. I can definitely see why some readers might drop it early on, feeling like the whole thing is just an unbelievable wish-fulfillment scenario. The early chapters are heavy on description, which didn't really grab my attention.

What Works Well

Despite my initial reservations, I can see the appeal. The story shines in its slow, deliberate character development. It avoids the common trope of an oblivious MC, instead presenting someone who is aware of the social dynamics and his own perceived shortcomings. This grounded perspective, while sometimes frustrating, feels more realistic. I also appreciate the author's attention to detail, subtly hinting at deeper backstories and hidden motivations. The relationships, though slow to develop, have the potential to become quite compelling. The humor injected throughout helps to lighten the mood when the MC's "average" life becomes too much.

Areas of Concern

The pacing is definitely the biggest hurdle. It's incredibly slow. If you're looking for immediate gratification or a rapidly unfolding plot, this isn't it. The lack of clear reasons for the popular characters' interest in the MC can also be a sticking point. I can understand why some readers feel like it's an unearned fantasy. The world-building could also be better, and some characters feel a bit one-dimensional.

Final Verdict

"Ordinary I and Extraordinary Them" is a mixed bag. It has moments of brilliance, with a refreshingly self-aware protagonist and intriguing character dynamics. However, the glacial pace and somewhat unlikeable MC in the beginning might turn off many readers. If you're patient and enjoy slow-burn character studies with a touch of romance, it might be worth a try. Otherwise, you might want to look elsewhere. I give it a tentative 3/5.