Toradora! Novel Review

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By takemiya yuyuko

4.0

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CompletedLicensedjapaneseLight Novel

Genres

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comedy drama romance school life shounen

Chapters

60 chapters

Started

2006

Description

Toradora!’s story begins with the male protagonist Ryuji Takasu who is frustrated at trying to look his best as he enters his second year of high school. Despite his gentle personality, his eyes make him look like an intimidating delinquent so he is utterly hopeless about his chances of getting a girlfriend anytime soon, and does not have many close friends either. After being greeted by his hungover mother in the morning, Ryuji goes to school and is happy to find that he gets to be in the same class as his best friend Yusaku Kitamura and crush Minori Kushieda. However, it is then that he unexpectedly knocks into “the school’s most dangerous animal of the highest risk level” — Taiga Aisaka — who just happens to also be in his class, and is a good friend of Minori. Taiga has a negative attitude towards others and will not hesitate to snap at people. After meeting Ryuji, she takes an instant dislike of him. Taiga comes from a rich family, though she moved out to live on her own due to family issues, and by coincidence is now living in an apartment next door to Ryuji. After Ryuji discovers that Taiga has a crush on Yusaku, and Taiga finds out about Ryuji’s affections towards Minori, Ryuji suggests that they cooperate so they can win the object of their affections. Ryuji says he will do anything to get closer to Minori, which Taiga exploits, making Ryuji her personal servant, and getting him to do household chores like cooking and cleaning for her. Taiga spends a lot of her time over at his house, so much so that she could almost be considered a member of his family. Since Ryuji spends a lot of time with Taiga, he is opened up to her world and to a side of her that most people do not see. The two also attempt to help each other in order to improve how people view them. Unknown to them, however, people they know from school start to become curious about their strange relationship together and rumors begin to spread about them.

Publication Information

Original Publisher: ascii media works
English Publisher: seven seas
Original Language: japanese
Type: Light Novel

Toradora! Review & Spoilers - Novel Translator

My Thoughts on Toradora!

"Toradora!" is a rollercoaster of emotions wrapped in a high school setting, and I'm still trying to catch my breath after finishing it. This series is a blend of comedy, drama, and romance, and for the most part, it manages to juggle these elements pretty well. While it definitely has its quirks, it's a story that sticks with you.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: two unlikely allies, each with a crush on the other's best friend, team up to help each other achieve their romantic goals. It's a classic setup, but "Toradora!" quickly proves it's more than just a simple love story. The characters, though seemingly archetypal at first, surprised me with their depth and complexity as the story progressed.

What Works Well

The character development is definitely a strong point. Ryuji and Taiga, in particular, undergo significant transformations. I found myself really invested in their journeys. The comedic moments are genuinely funny, often arising from the characters' personalities and the situations they find themselves in. The romance, while sometimes frustrating, feels earned and satisfying. It's the kind of story that makes you root for the characters and feel their joys and sorrows alongside them. The balance between lighthearted comedy and heavier, more dramatic moments is well-executed, creating a compelling and engaging narrative.

Areas of Concern

I will admit that the plot progression felt a bit illogical at times. There were moments where I questioned the characters' decisions and motivations, which did detract from my overall enjoyment. While the story does a good job of developing its main characters, some of the supporting characters, like Kitamura, could have benefited from more attention. I felt like his potential was never fully realized.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "Toradora!" is a memorable and impactful story. It's a testament to the power of good character development and emotional storytelling. If you're looking for a romance with depth, humor, and a touch of drama, I think you'll find something to love in "Toradora!". I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.