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ボーイズ・ラン・ザ・ライオット [Boys Run the Riot] #1
Boys Run the Riot, Vol. 1
A transgender teen named Ryuu finds an escape from the expectations and anxieties of his daily life in the world of street fashion. This personal, heartfelt, fictional story from a Japanese transgender manga creator made waves in Japan and will inspire readers all over the world!
High schooler Ryuu knows he's transgender. But he doesn't have anyone to confide in about the confusion he feels. He can't tell his best friend, who he's secretly got a crush on, and he can't tell his mom, who's constantly asking why Ryuu is always dressing like a boy. He certainly can't tell Jin, the new transfer student who looks like just another bully. The only time Ryuu feels at ease is when he's wearing his favorite clothes. Then, and only then, the world melts away, and he can be his true self. One day, while out shopping, Ryuu sees an unexpected sight: Jin. The kid who looked so tough in class is shopping for the same clothes that Ryuu loves. And Jin offers Ryuu a proposal: to start their own brand and create apparel to help everyone feel comfortable in their skin. At last, Ryuu has someone he can open up to--and the journey ahead might finally give him a way to express himself to everyone else.
High schooler Ryuu knows he's transgender. But he doesn't have anyone to confide in about the confusion he feels. He can't tell his best friend, who he's secretly got a crush on, and he can't tell his mom, who's constantly asking why Ryuu is always dressing like a boy. He certainly can't tell Jin, the new transfer student who looks like just another bully. The only time Ryuu feels at ease is when he's wearing his favorite clothes. Then, and only then, the world melts away, and he can be his true self. One day, while out shopping, Ryuu sees an unexpected sight: Jin. The kid who looked so tough in class is shopping for the same clothes that Ryuu loves. And Jin offers Ryuu a proposal: to start their own brand and create apparel to help everyone feel comfortable in their skin. At last, Ryuu has someone he can open up to--and the journey ahead might finally give him a way to express himself to everyone else.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2020
122 people are currently reading
5546 people want to read
About the author
Keito Gaku
5 books115 followersName (in native Japanese): 学慶人
Keito Gaku is a manga artist and transgender man living in Japan. Gaku is winner of the 77th Tetsuya Chiba Prize for his debut work, Boys Run the Riot.
Keito Gaku is a manga artist and transgender man living in Japan. Gaku is winner of the 77th Tetsuya Chiba Prize for his debut work, Boys Run the Riot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,015 reviews
May 1, 2021
This is an interesting one. The advertising and the plot descriptions focus on the fact that the lead is a transgender teen (also notable that the manga creator took aspects from his own life here). Indeed the first chapter of the book focuses on how uncomfortable he is with his life and how he can't tell his friend (who he's obviously got a crush on) and can't tell his family who constantly question why he doesn't wear dresses.
While this is important to the plot and the psychology of the character, it's not the focus of the book. The plot focuses on finding what you want in life, and in this case it follows Ryu and a transfer student as they try to create a clothing brand.
Really, in one way I understand why they would focus on the transgender aspect in terms of trying to sell it as that has more marketability in some ways… a manga about teens creating a clothing brand honestly doesn't sound that interesting in the slightest. If it hadn't been for all the buzz I've been hearing about this one, I likely wouldn't have been that interested in that plot description.
Which is why I'm here to try to let everyone know that it's a shockingly good series (based on the first volume at least). The artwork is fantastic and the psychology of our characters is fitting and interesting. It's a great character study and all the main characters are interesting thus far.
This one is well worth a read for fans of more realistic manga. It's a serious character drama, and a rather fascinating one. Highly suggested even if the plot doesn't sound like something that might immediately catch your interest. 4/5 stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
While this is important to the plot and the psychology of the character, it's not the focus of the book. The plot focuses on finding what you want in life, and in this case it follows Ryu and a transfer student as they try to create a clothing brand.
Really, in one way I understand why they would focus on the transgender aspect in terms of trying to sell it as that has more marketability in some ways… a manga about teens creating a clothing brand honestly doesn't sound that interesting in the slightest. If it hadn't been for all the buzz I've been hearing about this one, I likely wouldn't have been that interested in that plot description.
Which is why I'm here to try to let everyone know that it's a shockingly good series (based on the first volume at least). The artwork is fantastic and the psychology of our characters is fitting and interesting. It's a great character study and all the main characters are interesting thus far.
This one is well worth a read for fans of more realistic manga. It's a serious character drama, and a rather fascinating one. Highly suggested even if the plot doesn't sound like something that might immediately catch your interest. 4/5 stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2021
Thanks to Netgally and Kodansha comics for giving me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!!
I loved this so much!!!!
As someone who just started getting into manga after watching lots and lots of anime, I must say I am way more than impressed! I loved this every single step of the way.
This book follows Trans boy Ryoko Watari but he's not out yet. He struggles with identity issues and navigating with his individuality as a whole.
Things change when he meets cringey af, fashionista and totally oblivious (sometimes) Jin Sato. They have an instant connection, a platonic one and then together they start a fashion brand.
They employ Watari's art skills(mainly graffiti but works with clothes as well.) and Jin's not so good marketing skills. Friends are made along the line and things are discovered.
I loved this book so much. I finished it in one sitting and to be honest, nothing can beat own voices books! A quick read and a great coming of age story. I can not wait for volume two!
To every transgender individual out there, you're completely valid! No one should define who you are at all!
🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈❤❤❤❤❤
Pre review
APPROVED ARC!!!!!!!!
I loved this so much!!!!
As someone who just started getting into manga after watching lots and lots of anime, I must say I am way more than impressed! I loved this every single step of the way.
This book follows Trans boy Ryoko Watari but he's not out yet. He struggles with identity issues and navigating with his individuality as a whole.
Things change when he meets cringey af, fashionista and totally oblivious (sometimes) Jin Sato. They have an instant connection, a platonic one and then together they start a fashion brand.
They employ Watari's art skills(mainly graffiti but works with clothes as well.) and Jin's not so good marketing skills. Friends are made along the line and things are discovered.
I loved this book so much. I finished it in one sitting and to be honest, nothing can beat own voices books! A quick read and a great coming of age story. I can not wait for volume two!
To every transgender individual out there, you're completely valid! No one should define who you are at all!
🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈❤❤❤❤❤
Pre review
APPROVED ARC!!!!!!!!
March 26, 2023
This was absolute perfection! Before reading this, I knew how much people loved this manga. I even went and bought the first two volumes without having read it. Let me tell you something. I COMPLETELY AND TOTALLY understand why people love this series so much. From the artwork to the storytelling, it was beautiful from the first to the last page. There are CW for this including: bullying, physical violence, transphobia, and misgendering. I think what I loved and appreciated most about this series is the unexpected additional themes. While this story does center Ryo and his experience, Gaku does an amazing job weaving in complex side characters that readers become invested in as well. I'm not a fashion person at all, but for some reason I was extremely interested in the process that Ryo and his friends went through to start their clothing business and design their clothes. I'm not sure if it was the comradery, but seeing them figure things out together piece by piece just made my heart sing. This is a manga that I cannot recommend enough. I cannot wait to dive into the next volume and finish up the story.
Read
September 11, 2022Boys Run the Riot is my surprise favourite of 2021 and boy did it hit me like a ton of bricks.
On the surface, this is a story about Ryo, a closeted transgender teen boy, and a new transfer student named Jin who decide to leave a mark on the world by starting their own online fashion brand. But really, this is a story about absolutely anyone who has ever felt like they don’t know how to be the person that society has decided they’re supposed to be.
The way this series deals with its themes is pretty unexpected. Yes, this is Ryo’s story and his journey as a transgender boy from a traditional family trying to navigate school and life. But it’s also every bit as much about Jin and Itsuka and Jin’s friends and everyone who has ever felt like they don’t belong but don’t know how to do anything other than try to fit in.
Volume one introduces some great characters and sets up Ryo and his friends’ journeys really well. I can already tell that this is shaping up to be a pretty damn emotional rollercoaster of a contemporary series and I’m so excited to find out where it all goes from here.
We’re long overdue for these kinds of stories to get their dues in manga and I couldn’t be anticipating the next volume more. Also, the art style is phenomenal.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC!
On the surface, this is a story about Ryo, a closeted transgender teen boy, and a new transfer student named Jin who decide to leave a mark on the world by starting their own online fashion brand. But really, this is a story about absolutely anyone who has ever felt like they don’t know how to be the person that society has decided they’re supposed to be.
The way this series deals with its themes is pretty unexpected. Yes, this is Ryo’s story and his journey as a transgender boy from a traditional family trying to navigate school and life. But it’s also every bit as much about Jin and Itsuka and Jin’s friends and everyone who has ever felt like they don’t belong but don’t know how to do anything other than try to fit in.
Volume one introduces some great characters and sets up Ryo and his friends’ journeys really well. I can already tell that this is shaping up to be a pretty damn emotional rollercoaster of a contemporary series and I’m so excited to find out where it all goes from here.
We’re long overdue for these kinds of stories to get their dues in manga and I couldn’t be anticipating the next volume more. Also, the art style is phenomenal.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC!
May 13, 2021
Okay, I have had sufficient time to let this marinate. Actually, I ended up getting sick this weekend, but, whatever, I am ready to tell everyone about this!!!
I love it so much!!! But first of all, can we all admit that at one point or another, everyone feels awkward or feels like they have to pretend they’re someone they’re not?? Especially in high school?!?! Second, can we say that those who experience high school as a transitioning teen has been made to feel even more awkward and like they have to hide who they are?!?! This graphic novel is about Ryo, a teen who is transitioning, and unfortunately is totally unsupported.
Enter Jin, a dude who is just cool. Head to toe, is a very real character. And by that, I mean he doesn’t fall into high school traps of who’s popular or who he should hang out with or how he or anyone else should act. I love him and everything he stands for and how he brings out other characters.
Sometimes, being yourself is hard and it helps to have a person or a group of friends who have your back. Not to tell you who you are, but to stand with you when you decide to stand for yourself. I think that’s a strong message that is very well portrayed in this book.
Can I gush about the art?!?! I love it!!! The use of clothing is really great here and I adore how it brings out the group. I don’t want to get all spoilery, but it’s some pretty awesome clothing. Especially closer to the end.
So basically I love this graphic novel as a whole and I can’t wait to see where the series will go from here!!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for allowing me to read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Check out this review and others on my blog @ https://shannarareads.com/?p=480
Thanks!!
I love it so much!!! But first of all, can we all admit that at one point or another, everyone feels awkward or feels like they have to pretend they’re someone they’re not?? Especially in high school?!?! Second, can we say that those who experience high school as a transitioning teen has been made to feel even more awkward and like they have to hide who they are?!?! This graphic novel is about Ryo, a teen who is transitioning, and unfortunately is totally unsupported.
Enter Jin, a dude who is just cool. Head to toe, is a very real character. And by that, I mean he doesn’t fall into high school traps of who’s popular or who he should hang out with or how he or anyone else should act. I love him and everything he stands for and how he brings out other characters.
Sometimes, being yourself is hard and it helps to have a person or a group of friends who have your back. Not to tell you who you are, but to stand with you when you decide to stand for yourself. I think that’s a strong message that is very well portrayed in this book.
Can I gush about the art?!?! I love it!!! The use of clothing is really great here and I adore how it brings out the group. I don’t want to get all spoilery, but it’s some pretty awesome clothing. Especially closer to the end.
So basically I love this graphic novel as a whole and I can’t wait to see where the series will go from here!!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for allowing me to read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Check out this review and others on my blog @ https://shannarareads.com/?p=480
Thanks!!
July 12, 2021
Boys Run the Riot is an incredibly powerful and important manga which I encourage all to read. Not only is it about gender dysphoria, the anxieties and complexities surrounding this but it showcases the wide gamut of society in terms of individuals who want to help and support in any way they can (e.g. Jin and Hinata-Sensei) but also those small-minded and very unpleasant individuals (e.g. Chihiro) who like to make fun out of those experiencing such challenges which is pretty hard to read at times :’(
Even though this is a pretty chunky volume (approx 240 pages), I flew through this and couldn't put it down. Ryo as a MC is a wonderful individual and (I believe) a very accurate portrayal of a transgender character (obvs please take this with a grain of salt as I am not transgender so cannot talk from my own experience) but the mangaka who is transgender has imbued this with experiences from their own life and from the lives of other transgender people.
Full RTC
Even though this is a pretty chunky volume (approx 240 pages), I flew through this and couldn't put it down. Ryo as a MC is a wonderful individual and (I believe) a very accurate portrayal of a transgender character (obvs please take this with a grain of salt as I am not transgender so cannot talk from my own experience) but the mangaka who is transgender has imbued this with experiences from their own life and from the lives of other transgender people.
Full RTC
June 20, 2022
very good
April 28, 2021
Realistic manga about a second year high school student as he struggles with being transgender and with that idea of fitting in and keeping his head down so as not to stand out and avoid being judged and despised. Ryo hates having to wear a girl's uniform and to hide from his parents that push him to be more girly.
Everything changes when a new boy comes to his class - Jin Sato-, he has lost a year, wears piercing and edgy hairstyle, and Ryo wonders "how can he walk around attracting attention like this?", and, we have to say it, Ryo also has his own prejudices thinking bad of the other boy without even knowing him. Ryo uses the baggy clothes to hide himself, but to Jin is a form to expression, of freedom. So Jin talks Ryo into starting a brand tshirt business because likes the graffiti of Ryo. It's sort of naive and wonderful. Especially when Jin atracts on purpose the target of the bullies into himself.
As one commentator says, Jin Sato is the friend that we all need to be able to dare to leave our comfort zone, and even to realize those dreams that we could not even think we had.
As is the first wolume we lack the bacground of some characters, especially Jin, and I'm the most curious abut him.
Treats with dysphoria, misogyny, and prejudices.
As I am a very bad person, I will say that I did not love the drawing, especially with the profiles.
But it's a good message for everybody. Be yourself.
At the end of the volume, the creator offers a short interview (ownvoices). And there are also some notes about the translation.
+Digital ARC gently provided by Netgalley and publishers in exchange for an honest review+
Everything changes when a new boy comes to his class - Jin Sato-, he has lost a year, wears piercing and edgy hairstyle, and Ryo wonders "how can he walk around attracting attention like this?", and, we have to say it, Ryo also has his own prejudices thinking bad of the other boy without even knowing him. Ryo uses the baggy clothes to hide himself, but to Jin is a form to expression, of freedom. So Jin talks Ryo into starting a brand tshirt business because likes the graffiti of Ryo. It's sort of naive and wonderful. Especially when Jin atracts on purpose the target of the bullies into himself.
As one commentator says, Jin Sato is the friend that we all need to be able to dare to leave our comfort zone, and even to realize those dreams that we could not even think we had.
As is the first wolume we lack the bacground of some characters, especially Jin, and I'm the most curious abut him.
Treats with dysphoria, misogyny, and prejudices.
As I am a very bad person, I will say that I did not love the drawing, especially with the profiles.
But it's a good message for everybody. Be yourself.
At the end of the volume, the creator offers a short interview (ownvoices). And there are also some notes about the translation.
+Digital ARC gently provided by Netgalley and publishers in exchange for an honest review+
August 25, 2021
Ryo is usually able to slip under the radar and get away with wearing sportswear instead of his high school uniform, but mandatory days come around every so often and he finds himself putting on the skirt he hates so much. Acceptance of his gender identity from an unexpected source sets Ryo on the road to expressing his truth and releasing his creativity.
Engaging characters with big dreams and lots of obstacles to overcome make for a promising start to this young adult fiction series by a Japanese transgender man. I have the second volume on hand and am eager to dive in.
Engaging characters with big dreams and lots of obstacles to overcome make for a promising start to this young adult fiction series by a Japanese transgender man. I have the second volume on hand and am eager to dive in.
November 16, 2022
High schooler Ryo knows that he's trans, but doesn't feel like he can tell anyone; it seems safer to repress this part of his identity. His school system requires gendered uniforms and Ryo hates wearing skirts, so tries to get away with wearing his PE track suit to school as often as possible. But he also fears standing out and the potential judgement of his peers. The only time Ryo feels like himself is after school when he roams the city in his own chosen street style, expressing his frustration and yearning through graffiti art. When Jin, a rough looking older boy who had to repeat a grade, joins Ryo's class, Ryo plans to steer clear of him. But then Ryo runs into Jin in a store and it turns out they share a taste in fashion and buried desire to break out of the molds society has built for them. Jin urges Ryo to start a fashion brand and tell his truth to the world at last. I was excited to try a manga series which centers a trans character, and which is also written by a trans author. This first book was a little shaky for me. The emotional beats felt clunky and rushed, and the antagonist boringly stereotypical. Nevertheless, I like the premise a lot, and will probably read at least one more volume to see if the writing smooths out a bit farther into the series.
October 3, 2022
This was so sweet!! Boys Run the Riot is at its heart a story about finding your passion in life and following it no matter what, which I love. Jin and Ryo’s friendship is so encouraging; the way they look up to each other never fails to warm my heart.
Boys Run the Riot follows a transgender boy Ryo who is struggling with revealing his identity, and his friend Jin who is constantly stereotyped as a delinquent simply because he was held back a grade. The two become fast friends as they bond over streetwear, eventually starting their own fashion website together as a way to freely express themselves.
This was a really great start to this series! The message the author is trying to convey is quite powerful, leaving me feeling inspired to get involved in greater things I love, just like these characters have. Can’t wait for more!
Boys Run the Riot follows a transgender boy Ryo who is struggling with revealing his identity, and his friend Jin who is constantly stereotyped as a delinquent simply because he was held back a grade. The two become fast friends as they bond over streetwear, eventually starting their own fashion website together as a way to freely express themselves.
This was a really great start to this series! The message the author is trying to convey is quite powerful, leaving me feeling inspired to get involved in greater things I love, just like these characters have. Can’t wait for more!
December 11, 2021
A trans mc in a manga? And a trans mangaka? I'm in!
"It’s okay if the only one who knows the real me is me"
This is the first manga I read, in which the main character is trans and I was so excited for read this manga. When I started reading the first pages, I never imagine that this story is going to marveled me.
I really loved meeting Ryo. He is a trans boy, incredible and amazing, but he is afraid of being hurt to show who he really is, so he is usually quiet with his classmates. The only thing that makes him happy, is to take off his uniform and wear something really comfortable for him, and thanks to that, a boy named Sato arrives in his life, he who accepts it for who he is and does not judge him. Gradually they make friends and create a brand of clothes, which is something that brings them back to the beginning
This manga made me feel a lot of emotions, but it certainly made me feel happy about the friendship between Ryo and Sato. The friendship between them from the beginning was honest and there was always acceptance on the part of the two.
And of course, I can't leave behind that interview at the end of this volume with the author of this manga: Keito Gaku. I really loved that interview, because I learned a lot of things.
I NEED THE SECOND VOLUME!
Thanks Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for allowing me to read an ARC of this wonderful manga!💙
"It’s okay if the only one who knows the real me is me"
This is the first manga I read, in which the main character is trans and I was so excited for read this manga. When I started reading the first pages, I never imagine that this story is going to marveled me.
I really loved meeting Ryo. He is a trans boy, incredible and amazing, but he is afraid of being hurt to show who he really is, so he is usually quiet with his classmates. The only thing that makes him happy, is to take off his uniform and wear something really comfortable for him, and thanks to that, a boy named Sato arrives in his life, he who accepts it for who he is and does not judge him. Gradually they make friends and create a brand of clothes, which is something that brings them back to the beginning
This manga made me feel a lot of emotions, but it certainly made me feel happy about the friendship between Ryo and Sato. The friendship between them from the beginning was honest and there was always acceptance on the part of the two.
And of course, I can't leave behind that interview at the end of this volume with the author of this manga: Keito Gaku. I really loved that interview, because I learned a lot of things.
I NEED THE SECOND VOLUME!
Thanks Netgalley and Kodansha Comics for allowing me to read an ARC of this wonderful manga!💙
May 22, 2022
A tender exploration of gender dysphoria, gender expression and the anxieties and loneliness that come with not being able to express your true self, Boys Run the Riot was a gorgeous read and one I'm very glad I decided to pick up as my first dip into the world of manga.
TW: misgendering, transphobia, homophobia
TW: misgendering, transphobia, homophobia
April 17, 2021
Thanks Netgalley and Kondansha Comics for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I just love this precious manga. Boys Run the Riot by Keito Gaku is an own voices, coming-of-age story about a young transgender boy. This novel succeeded in positively representing LGBTQ+ people.
The story followed Ryuu. Not fitting in, always being misunderstood, and having confusing feelings, Ryuu was already familiar with these things. The only comfort he had was when he was wearing his favorite clothes. In a way, he felt he could express himself through them. One day while out shopping, he happened to pick up a shirt at the same time with Jin, the new transfer who looked nothing but a bully. Jin offered Ryuu to develop a clothing brand that helped people express themselves. Ryuu was hesitant at first, but slowly, he found a partner, a friend while also embracing his identity and dreams.
The plot was absolutely well-written. Not only it explored and took a close look to what LGBTQ+ people struggle with, but it also tackled family relationship, friends, and school life in a very authentic way. The emotions represented were raw and powerful that I couldn't help but shed tears while reading this. The characters were all fleshed out, and I knew readers could find pieces of themselves with the characters.
The interview with the author at the end provided such a helpful insight. I really appreciated it. The message that this book wanted to convey was loud and clear.
Overall, Boys Run the Riot was an absolute read. I was very grateful to have an early access of this empowering manga. I am very looking forward to the next volume.
5/5 stars!
CW: transphobia/LGBTQ+ hate and bullying
I just love this precious manga. Boys Run the Riot by Keito Gaku is an own voices, coming-of-age story about a young transgender boy. This novel succeeded in positively representing LGBTQ+ people.
The story followed Ryuu. Not fitting in, always being misunderstood, and having confusing feelings, Ryuu was already familiar with these things. The only comfort he had was when he was wearing his favorite clothes. In a way, he felt he could express himself through them. One day while out shopping, he happened to pick up a shirt at the same time with Jin, the new transfer who looked nothing but a bully. Jin offered Ryuu to develop a clothing brand that helped people express themselves. Ryuu was hesitant at first, but slowly, he found a partner, a friend while also embracing his identity and dreams.
The plot was absolutely well-written. Not only it explored and took a close look to what LGBTQ+ people struggle with, but it also tackled family relationship, friends, and school life in a very authentic way. The emotions represented were raw and powerful that I couldn't help but shed tears while reading this. The characters were all fleshed out, and I knew readers could find pieces of themselves with the characters.
The interview with the author at the end provided such a helpful insight. I really appreciated it. The message that this book wanted to convey was loud and clear.
Overall, Boys Run the Riot was an absolute read. I was very grateful to have an early access of this empowering manga. I am very looking forward to the next volume.
5/5 stars!
CW: transphobia/LGBTQ+ hate and bullying
June 4, 2021
This is a cool mix of feeling comfortable with yourself as a Trans character and ALSO starting up your own business.
Ryo is trying to feel comfortable in their own skin. Once a she, he now likes to go by a he. Despite his body he wants to be considered a man. But on top of high school already sucking and being messy he now has to find acceptness, and it's not easy. But one day he meets Jin, a guy who just wants to stand out from the rest. He choses Ryo to help him create his dream of a brandname clothing but also coming to terms with who they are.
I can never fully understand how it is for Ryo. Him trying to feel comfortable being who he is now must be rough. But like Jin says, he's willing to listen to his friend on the subject because that's what friends do. On top of that we get a look into the business side of things, starting up your own clothing line, and that also is interesting.
While it doesn't break any new ground in terms of plotting about starting a business it does by giving us a main character who is Transgender, which we don't often get, or really ever. I personally love it, and want to learn more about Ryo but also Jin as well as a newcomer by the end.
This one is a nice 4 out of 5.
Ryo is trying to feel comfortable in their own skin. Once a she, he now likes to go by a he. Despite his body he wants to be considered a man. But on top of high school already sucking and being messy he now has to find acceptness, and it's not easy. But one day he meets Jin, a guy who just wants to stand out from the rest. He choses Ryo to help him create his dream of a brandname clothing but also coming to terms with who they are.
I can never fully understand how it is for Ryo. Him trying to feel comfortable being who he is now must be rough. But like Jin says, he's willing to listen to his friend on the subject because that's what friends do. On top of that we get a look into the business side of things, starting up your own clothing line, and that also is interesting.
While it doesn't break any new ground in terms of plotting about starting a business it does by giving us a main character who is Transgender, which we don't often get, or really ever. I personally love it, and want to learn more about Ryo but also Jin as well as a newcomer by the end.
This one is a nice 4 out of 5.
June 3, 2024
Loved this.
Breath of fresh air and I'm thinking inspiring on a few different levels...
Breath of fresh air and I'm thinking inspiring on a few different levels...
April 16, 2021
Aw. .. Well, well! What a pleasant surprise it was! I never thought of end up loving it so Much. It's about a highschool trio who bond over very peculiar circUmstances and all of them are totally different, struggling with their own problems got closer by a new brand they opened, Boys Run The Riot, It's. It's rebellious, It's heartwarming and gut wrenching at a SAME time. It perfectly shows the problems deeply rooted in our educational system, biasness of teachers privileged cool students bullying other. It unMasked a toxic nature of our society. All in a form of comic. How cool is that?
Meet our odd trio. First Ryo chan, a trans boy (and yes respecting that I'll use He/Him as pronouns) who is fed up hiding his true identify and being misjudged by the society. Wearing cool dress is the only way for him to find solace.
Our second mc is Jin (he's my fav of all three btw 😅) who is our typical backbencher whom we very often refer as the TROUBLED KID. And he is very aware of his lacking of academic skills, so he's trying to do something on his own.
And our last member of this trio is Itsuka, normal cool kid, golden boy , well behaved child. But too much normalcy is suffocating him. Inheriting a passion for photography from his dad he's fond of capturing emotions through camera lense.
Now how all three bonded and got closer, well that's a pleasant read I'll leave upto you to find yourself.
I really liked the way concept of entrepreneurship and start up and the hassles comes with it was submerged into the story along with many small big social issues. It's unique and thought provoking in It's own way. There are so many layer to the story and cool art style and dialogue designing supported It's flow brilliantly. It's age appropriate and cool. It's been a while, I reduced reading ya books drastically, this COMIC is kinda taunting me now.
Gosh! I badly need volume 2 asap!
[I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange of honest review]
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Meet our odd trio. First Ryo chan, a trans boy (and yes respecting that I'll use He/Him as pronouns) who is fed up hiding his true identify and being misjudged by the society. Wearing cool dress is the only way for him to find solace.
Our second mc is Jin (he's my fav of all three btw 😅) who is our typical backbencher whom we very often refer as the TROUBLED KID. And he is very aware of his lacking of academic skills, so he's trying to do something on his own.
And our last member of this trio is Itsuka, normal cool kid, golden boy , well behaved child. But too much normalcy is suffocating him. Inheriting a passion for photography from his dad he's fond of capturing emotions through camera lense.
Now how all three bonded and got closer, well that's a pleasant read I'll leave upto you to find yourself.
I really liked the way concept of entrepreneurship and start up and the hassles comes with it was submerged into the story along with many small big social issues. It's unique and thought provoking in It's own way. There are so many layer to the story and cool art style and dialogue designing supported It's flow brilliantly. It's age appropriate and cool. It's been a while, I reduced reading ya books drastically, this COMIC is kinda taunting me now.
Gosh! I badly need volume 2 asap!
[I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange of honest review]
March 30, 2022
Manga has really stepped up their game lately. Here is an own voice manga dealing with a transgender teen trying to navigate life while in high school. Now let me tell you, high school is not fun. Well, for a majority, it's not fun. There is that small few who agree it was the best time ever - I don't understand it but to each their own.
Ryo is dealing with so much internally and trying to figure out how to understand it all. He doesn't know anyone else like him and he doesn't feel he can trust those that he does know. Ryo just feels so much but to me, fear is the main emotion. Fear of other people finding out his secret, fear of how they will act, fear of being bullied. When he meets Jin everything changes. Jin is not all that he appears to be and ends up helping Ryo in so many ways. I felt this story was so important and I loved how the author approached this subject.
Ryo is dealing with so much internally and trying to figure out how to understand it all. He doesn't know anyone else like him and he doesn't feel he can trust those that he does know. Ryo just feels so much but to me, fear is the main emotion. Fear of other people finding out his secret, fear of how they will act, fear of being bullied. When he meets Jin everything changes. Jin is not all that he appears to be and ends up helping Ryo in so many ways. I felt this story was so important and I loved how the author approached this subject.
October 16, 2021
An own voices manga with a transgender character as the main MC that explores gender dysphoria, trans issues without making it the main storyline.
A wonderfully immersive and quick read. Also adored the artwork.
Looking forward to keeping an eye out for volume 2.
A wonderfully immersive and quick read. Also adored the artwork.
Looking forward to keeping an eye out for volume 2.
March 26, 2023
Typically, when I rate a book, I give a rating based on whether I think they accomplished their goal. While I am a queer woman, I'm not transgender, so I don't feel it's my place to make a judgment on if the book accomplished its goal. So, just based on vibes, I really enjoyed this story and I'm curious to see where it goes.
This story does delve into Ryo's struggle to live within a society that refuses to see him as a boy. While some schools in the U.S. have strict uniform dress codes, every school I've gone to has allowed for some freedom of what we wear. All students are allowed to wear pants, if they want, so I sympathized with Ryo's daily conflict with his school (and his mother's) attempts to force him into clothes the girls his age wear. In addition to the dress code, there's his classmates constantly trying to "match" him up to the guys he spent time with through a romantic lens. The scene where they all stared at him like he was crazy for expressing interest in a female TV character was so sad.
I really liked Jin as a character. We already see threads of him trying to be the best ally he can be and I liked that their bond starts through love of similar fashion. The afterword from the author was interesting because the fashion connection wasn't born out of Gaku's love for fashion, per say.
I liked seeing Itsuka join the brand because he was impressed by how cool Jin looked on stage. Overall, this seems like it's shaping up to be a series about 3 outcasts (for different reasons) coming together to build something bigger than themselves.
So, while I won't pass judgment on the goals, I thought it was a great story. It's moving, the art is lovely and it seems to be building to a great story. I'll definitely check out the next part when it's available at my library.
This story does delve into Ryo's struggle to live within a society that refuses to see him as a boy. While some schools in the U.S. have strict uniform dress codes, every school I've gone to has allowed for some freedom of what we wear. All students are allowed to wear pants, if they want, so I sympathized with Ryo's daily conflict with his school (and his mother's) attempts to force him into clothes the girls his age wear. In addition to the dress code, there's his classmates constantly trying to "match" him up to the guys he spent time with through a romantic lens. The scene where they all stared at him like he was crazy for expressing interest in a female TV character was so sad.
I really liked Jin as a character. We already see threads of him trying to be the best ally he can be and I liked that their bond starts through love of similar fashion. The afterword from the author was interesting because the fashion connection wasn't born out of Gaku's love for fashion, per say.
I liked seeing Itsuka join the brand because he was impressed by how cool Jin looked on stage. Overall, this seems like it's shaping up to be a series about 3 outcasts (for different reasons) coming together to build something bigger than themselves.
So, while I won't pass judgment on the goals, I thought it was a great story. It's moving, the art is lovely and it seems to be building to a great story. I'll definitely check out the next part when it's available at my library.
June 5, 2022
"Why wouldn't I want a friend to confide in me? So let it all out. You think I can't take it or something'?"
This was an incredibly inspiring first volume!
I originally picked up this series because it reminded me of a friend that "came out" after high school. While I am unsure if they are transgender because we haven't been in touch in a long time due to a loss of contact info, but I wanted to try this series because I wanted to maybe be able to see the world through his eyes.
I honestly felt like I got so much more than what I hoped to originally get from this story.
All of these teens have a dream and as someone who is currently wrestling with a dream and if I could ever see the fulfillment of that dream, I found each one of them deeply inspiring. Ryo's struggles in the beginning while are different then my own, I still found a strong relatability to him.
Which leads me to say that I am deeply thankful for Jin's character! He is AMAZING! I love the reaffirmation that we should not judge others based off their looks because I feel we all need to be reminded of this. I know I never want to miss out on being friends with people like Jin!
However, I think the character we meet later on is the one I am most deeply interested in. He was VERY much relatable and found myself leaning in when I was reading his story because it reminded me of high school me. I hope good things for all these young people, but especially him. <3
Lastly, I love love LOVEEEEEEE seeing these high schoolers strive to be entrepreneurs! I feel it is portrayed so positively and just 1000% here for that!
I am nervous about the character we met at the end, but I am really looking forward to reading volume two!
This was an incredibly inspiring first volume!
I originally picked up this series because it reminded me of a friend that "came out" after high school. While I am unsure if they are transgender because we haven't been in touch in a long time due to a loss of contact info, but I wanted to try this series because I wanted to maybe be able to see the world through his eyes.
I honestly felt like I got so much more than what I hoped to originally get from this story.
All of these teens have a dream and as someone who is currently wrestling with a dream and if I could ever see the fulfillment of that dream, I found each one of them deeply inspiring. Ryo's struggles in the beginning while are different then my own, I still found a strong relatability to him.
Which leads me to say that I am deeply thankful for Jin's character! He is AMAZING! I love the reaffirmation that we should not judge others based off their looks because I feel we all need to be reminded of this. I know I never want to miss out on being friends with people like Jin!
However, I think the character we meet later on is the one I am most deeply interested in. He was VERY much relatable and found myself leaning in when I was reading his story because it reminded me of high school me. I hope good things for all these young people, but especially him. <3
Lastly, I love love LOVEEEEEEE seeing these high schoolers strive to be entrepreneurs! I feel it is portrayed so positively and just 1000% here for that!
I am nervous about the character we met at the end, but I am really looking forward to reading volume two!
June 19, 2021
"It’s okay if the only one who knows the real me is me."
Boys Run the Riot, Vol.1 has some great lines like this. This is a teen/YA manga translation about Ryo, a transgender boy. Physically a girl, Ryo struggles to fit in. He feels lost with his group of girl friends and boys who were his friends now avoid him because
“You’re a girl, so go hang out with other girls…We don’t want any weird rumors to spread.”
And then, a new boy called Jin Sato joins the school, and things begin to take an interesting turn for Ryo.
I loved this book for its exploration of gender identity and stereotypes. There’s so much peer pressure to conform, and think like everyone else that there’s absolutely no voice for boys like Ryo. He is also intimidated by most kids until Jin makes an appearance and inspires Ryo to stand up for himself, helping him find his individuality. Jin, too, is considered “scary” and a “weirdo” as he is a senior student who is repeating a year, dresses differently, and generally stands out with his attitude. But he makes no apologies for being different.
Along the way, Ryo and Jin meet other ‘outsiders’ like them and there are some nice friendships formed.
The only put off for me in this book was the overly American dialogues, which kind of created a dissonance with the setting. Perhaps, it’s an effort to mirror the Japanese original as closely as possible but it somehow didn’t sit well with me.
The artwork is detailed and does a great job of highlighting small body movements to complement the emotion or atmosphere.
I am now waiting for Volume 2!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC.
Boys Run the Riot, Vol.1 has some great lines like this. This is a teen/YA manga translation about Ryo, a transgender boy. Physically a girl, Ryo struggles to fit in. He feels lost with his group of girl friends and boys who were his friends now avoid him because
“You’re a girl, so go hang out with other girls…We don’t want any weird rumors to spread.”
And then, a new boy called Jin Sato joins the school, and things begin to take an interesting turn for Ryo.
I loved this book for its exploration of gender identity and stereotypes. There’s so much peer pressure to conform, and think like everyone else that there’s absolutely no voice for boys like Ryo. He is also intimidated by most kids until Jin makes an appearance and inspires Ryo to stand up for himself, helping him find his individuality. Jin, too, is considered “scary” and a “weirdo” as he is a senior student who is repeating a year, dresses differently, and generally stands out with his attitude. But he makes no apologies for being different.
Along the way, Ryo and Jin meet other ‘outsiders’ like them and there are some nice friendships formed.
The only put off for me in this book was the overly American dialogues, which kind of created a dissonance with the setting. Perhaps, it’s an effort to mirror the Japanese original as closely as possible but it somehow didn’t sit well with me.
The artwork is detailed and does a great job of highlighting small body movements to complement the emotion or atmosphere.
I am now waiting for Volume 2!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the ARC.
May 26, 2022
honestly a whole delight !!! excited to read the rest soon
May 25, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
•
I loved this book so much! The story follows a trans boy Ryoko Watari, who struggles to navigate in the world with everyone commenting on how he should be acting and dressing. Then one day a student from the year before got held back and is not in his class, Jin Sato. They connect do to being an outsider to everyone in school and having similar taste in fashion. Watari finds that Jin is completely accepting of him being trans, and Jin helps him figure out that fashion can help present his views of how he wants to present himself. Watari’s art skills and Jin’s marketing skills help them get started on their business idea and in comes another friend who helps them present their clothes by being a photographer. All of these characters were so interesting with the depth they held and the growth that is seen in just the first volume. The writing and art was fantastic and each character had a very distinctive voice that really matched how they present themselves. The story was so good because it’s character based and these characters you just want them to succeed. Overall, I loved this book and I am highly anticipating the sequel.
•
I loved this book so much! The story follows a trans boy Ryoko Watari, who struggles to navigate in the world with everyone commenting on how he should be acting and dressing. Then one day a student from the year before got held back and is not in his class, Jin Sato. They connect do to being an outsider to everyone in school and having similar taste in fashion. Watari finds that Jin is completely accepting of him being trans, and Jin helps him figure out that fashion can help present his views of how he wants to present himself. Watari’s art skills and Jin’s marketing skills help them get started on their business idea and in comes another friend who helps them present their clothes by being a photographer. All of these characters were so interesting with the depth they held and the growth that is seen in just the first volume. The writing and art was fantastic and each character had a very distinctive voice that really matched how they present themselves. The story was so good because it’s character based and these characters you just want them to succeed. Overall, I loved this book and I am highly anticipating the sequel.
May 9, 2021
An OwnVoices manga following Ryo, a transgender high-schooler as he navigates the difficulties of his peers at school not knowing his true identity. Ryo tries to keep to himself, until new student Jin convinces him to help start a fashion brand.
Jin is confident and doesn't seem to care what others say about him; Ryo doesn't know how he does it. Starting the fashion brand, the two strike up a friendship. Jin accepting Ryo's true gender identity. For Ryo and Jin, fashion is a way to express themselves and they hope to show that through their brand.
Looking foreward to seeing how things develope in the next volume.
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jin is confident and doesn't seem to care what others say about him; Ryo doesn't know how he does it. Starting the fashion brand, the two strike up a friendship. Jin accepting Ryo's true gender identity. For Ryo and Jin, fashion is a way to express themselves and they hope to show that through their brand.
Looking foreward to seeing how things develope in the next volume.
Arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2023
for some fucking reason goodreads deleted my original arc review of this manga when i added my reread, which i'm really annoyed about. anyway, this was the first volume of manga i ever read in 2021 and i initially gave it 3 stars, but upon reread 2 years later, i've read a couple more volumes of manga and gained slightly more of an understanding of the kinds of things i can expect from manga. i'm increasing my rating to 4 stars. i think some of ryo's character development happens a bit too fast, but i love following him on his journey of trans acceptance and making friends that respect him for who he is. i can't wait to read volume 2!
April 20, 2021
Wow! This manga is so incredibly powerful! Though I am not an own voices reviewer for this particular story, I can truly see the power behind the story being told here.
If you would like my more in depth feelings about this title, please check out this review vlog! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6vAl...
If you would like my more in depth feelings about this title, please check out this review vlog! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6vAl...
October 4, 2021
this manga was so perfect, i never thought i'd read something like this. i loved it more than anything 😭
August 2, 2025
My local library has all four books in this series. Lets just say I put the next three on immediate 'hold' for me to pick up once I got about 60% into this story.
This was very readable. A small number of important characters. Clear dilemmas for each character. Excellent interactions. Lots of graphic panels. Concise dialogue.
Ryo is in year 2 of HS and dislikes wearing the girl's uniform since she thinks as a guy and has androgynous features. She likes guys clothes, hangs with the boys at school, dislikes the girls' groups. This is a great representation of early transgender and I look forward to progression in the rest of this series.
Jin is new and should have gone to year 3, but is held back in year 2 per some grades. He looks like he is even older, and likes the same strong guy fashions that Ryo gravitates toward. His strong personality trait is leadership by example, without even knowing he is doing it.
Itsuka is a student that likes exploring his dad's old camera. He just wants to fit in at school. He arrived mid-book and I'm sure will advance as the series progresses.
All three of these students are categorized by classmates as 'weird', but isn't everyone 'weird' in high school?! That is a beautiful point this story is conveying. The typical quest to conform/fit-in to some undefined 'normal' (usually defined by the bullies) is holding everybody back from achieving their true potential.
I like how the dialogue flows. I like how each character is uniquely drawn. Everyone seems extremely realistic.
Book 1 has just enough of an ending to be satisfying, yet you feel there is much more to come.
5*
This was very readable. A small number of important characters. Clear dilemmas for each character. Excellent interactions. Lots of graphic panels. Concise dialogue.
Ryo is in year 2 of HS and dislikes wearing the girl's uniform since she thinks as a guy and has androgynous features. She likes guys clothes, hangs with the boys at school, dislikes the girls' groups. This is a great representation of early transgender and I look forward to progression in the rest of this series.
Jin is new and should have gone to year 3, but is held back in year 2 per some grades. He looks like he is even older, and likes the same strong guy fashions that Ryo gravitates toward. His strong personality trait is leadership by example, without even knowing he is doing it.
Itsuka is a student that likes exploring his dad's old camera. He just wants to fit in at school. He arrived mid-book and I'm sure will advance as the series progresses.
All three of these students are categorized by classmates as 'weird', but isn't everyone 'weird' in high school?! That is a beautiful point this story is conveying. The typical quest to conform/fit-in to some undefined 'normal' (usually defined by the bullies) is holding everybody back from achieving their true potential.
I like how the dialogue flows. I like how each character is uniquely drawn. Everyone seems extremely realistic.
Book 1 has just enough of an ending to be satisfying, yet you feel there is much more to come.
5*
April 18, 2021
I love this manga so much! It's about Ryo, a trans teen who never fits in and has lots of confused feelings and the beginnings of a friendship between an unlikely trio. The other MCs are Jin, my favourite because he is so self aware and open and Itsuka, who adores photography.
The manga hooks you in from the start and is beautiful and heartbreaking at once. The idea is of using clothes to express themselves is stellar and I'm really looking forward to the future volumes, especially to see growth of their friendship.
The plot is engaging and well written and the art style is so cool! The interview at the end was very insightful and I highly recommend this manga to everyone! I cannot stress this enough, you need this manga in your life!
Damn, I need the next volume so badly!!
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
CW: misgendering, dysphoria, transphobia, bullying
The manga hooks you in from the start and is beautiful and heartbreaking at once. The idea is of using clothes to express themselves is stellar and I'm really looking forward to the future volumes, especially to see growth of their friendship.
The plot is engaging and well written and the art style is so cool! The interview at the end was very insightful and I highly recommend this manga to everyone! I cannot stress this enough, you need this manga in your life!
Damn, I need the next volume so badly!!
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
CW: misgendering, dysphoria, transphobia, bullying
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