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My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! #1
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over!, Vol. 1
Chiro-chan is a world-class idol...at least, to Sakiko Manaka, your run-of-the-mill hard-core idol fan. So when Chiro—real name Chihiro—ends up sitting next to her in school, Sakiko's world is turned upside-down, and all her brain cells vanish. After all, how can she concentrate when her absolute fav is just inches away?! But she needs to be on her A-game, because she may not be the only one who is totally gaga for Chihiro...
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 2, 2022
Her smile, sparkling with a dazzling light...her voice, boldly rining out throughout the large venue...her brave figure dashing through a sea of colorful light sticks...the one who gave me those feelings for the first time back then...was a girl the same age as me."
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
❗This is a spoiler-free ARC review from NetGalley❗
⚠️Trigger Warning: This manga contains bullying/cyberbullying, and obsession.⚠️
This has been fun. I expected this little story to be all cute and humorous but, I was pleasantly surprised to find some darker themes as well. Regardless, it is still suitable for younger readers, in fact, I think it is a great story for teens and tweens.
The story was really really cute. A young girl, Sakiko, who's a fan of this band called Spring Shine finds out that one of the singers is, not only in the same class as her but also sitting right next to her. That, however, brings forth an obsessive bully who tries desperately to stop a friendship from forming between Sakiko and Chiro, the young celebrity, because she wants to keep Chiro all to herself. I feel like a story like this is important for young readers. The bullying/cyberbullying theme is addressed in a way that shows what it feels like to be attacked and hated by someone, whether that is face-to-face, over the internet, or both. It also shows how wrong it is to be deeply obsessed and possessive of another person, whether that person is a celebrity or otherwise. Despite this manga's dark themes, there are also a lot of humorous and cute moments. Sakiko's freak-outs over her favorite celebrity is nothing short of relatable. Her behavior is exactly how I imagined myself acting if I ever met Zendaya, and I'm an adult. In the case of a pre-teen, though, it's actually cute 😅😅 One other thing that really pleased me but doesn't have much to do with the storyline was that the chapters were referred to as school periods and I thought that was really cute and creative.
While I found the balance between cute, humorous and dark obsession, there is one little thing that bothered me. Sakiko continuously approached that weird psycho Maaya Tozawa, and allowed her to manipulate and verbally abuse her, which I think is ridiculous. Just cut her off already. There's no need to be nice to the weirdo anymore. She doesn't appreciate your kindness. She hates you. I would have given this manga a 5⭐ rating, but this part really bothered me. She's basically enabling that psycho.
I would recommend this.
February 4, 2022
I received this manga from the publisher/Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I was definitely looking forward to this manga, when I saw it on Netgalley I just laughed so much at the title. I was curious how Sakiko would be, given that sometimes fans can go a bit far, I was wondering if she would be that one or just a cute fan excited to see her idol.
A manga that could have been so cute and fun. A manga about a fan and her idol. However. I wasn’t happy with this one. And that is because next to these two cute girls we have a psychotic and over the top character named Maaya. Really, I just don’t understand why the author felt the needed to add such a character to the story. Because without Maaya? I would have absolutely loved this story. Sakiko is just the cutest and I love how she tries to be respectful to Chiro and not go full fangirl on her, she tries to be her friend. I had a big laugh at her reactions, especially early on when she finds out it is Chiro next to her. In her school. And then later she still has reactions and I just loved how sweet they were. She is just so happy to just have Chiro happy, a smile makes her happy. I loved that later on in the story she figured out what she wanted to be and that is such a wonderful goal! Then there is Chiro, she is a bit shy but also so so sweet, and is OK with Sakiko (even after that hilarious confession). I just loved that no one recognised her except for Sakiko and another girl, haha, I guess the group is still in the beginning phase. Chiro was adorable, though I would have liked her to be a bit more aware what is going on around her, I mean, it is pretty obvious with Maaya. I loved that you can really see a friendship blossoming between these two. I would have just love a whole manga about these two figuring out how friendship works between a die-hard fan (but respectful) and an idol. See them get closer!
But Maaya. From the moment we meet her she does things that no one should do. I mean, throws a phone on someone’s head because they get too close to Chiro. Spams Sakiko’s Twitter and sends harmful and hurtful messages all day long. Then later when Maaya gets closer to Chiro things escalate to manipulation, threats, hurt, and more. I am sorry, but what the actual fuck? This girl is constantly pushing poor Sakiko, constantly being a bitch, constantly making Sakiko afraid of everything. Constantly doing shit that no one should do and I just wanted her out of the story. Stat. Now. It just got too much. Maybe she has a reason, but I am sorry, I am not in the mood to get some sort of sob story on how someone became a yandere for her idol. 😐
The art was good, I loved the character designs from Chiro and Sakiko.
Oh, and I just wish we could have heard music along with the guerrilla concert! The group was just so vibrant and fun and I just wanted to hear the music they were singing. To be part of it.
So, I won’t be continuing this story. I don’t want a story featuring a yandere girl who goes WAY too far and gets WAY too creepy. Again, if it was just Sakiko and Chiro, I would have read on and on as each volume came out.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I was definitely looking forward to this manga, when I saw it on Netgalley I just laughed so much at the title. I was curious how Sakiko would be, given that sometimes fans can go a bit far, I was wondering if she would be that one or just a cute fan excited to see her idol.
A manga that could have been so cute and fun. A manga about a fan and her idol. However. I wasn’t happy with this one. And that is because next to these two cute girls we have a psychotic and over the top character named Maaya. Really, I just don’t understand why the author felt the needed to add such a character to the story. Because without Maaya? I would have absolutely loved this story. Sakiko is just the cutest and I love how she tries to be respectful to Chiro and not go full fangirl on her, she tries to be her friend. I had a big laugh at her reactions, especially early on when she finds out it is Chiro next to her. In her school. And then later she still has reactions and I just loved how sweet they were. She is just so happy to just have Chiro happy, a smile makes her happy. I loved that later on in the story she figured out what she wanted to be and that is such a wonderful goal! Then there is Chiro, she is a bit shy but also so so sweet, and is OK with Sakiko (even after that hilarious confession). I just loved that no one recognised her except for Sakiko and another girl, haha, I guess the group is still in the beginning phase. Chiro was adorable, though I would have liked her to be a bit more aware what is going on around her, I mean, it is pretty obvious with Maaya. I loved that you can really see a friendship blossoming between these two. I would have just love a whole manga about these two figuring out how friendship works between a die-hard fan (but respectful) and an idol. See them get closer!
But Maaya. From the moment we meet her she does things that no one should do. I mean, throws a phone on someone’s head because they get too close to Chiro. Spams Sakiko’s Twitter and sends harmful and hurtful messages all day long. Then later when Maaya gets closer to Chiro things escalate to manipulation, threats, hurt, and more. I am sorry, but what the actual fuck? This girl is constantly pushing poor Sakiko, constantly being a bitch, constantly making Sakiko afraid of everything. Constantly doing shit that no one should do and I just wanted her out of the story. Stat. Now. It just got too much. Maybe she has a reason, but I am sorry, I am not in the mood to get some sort of sob story on how someone became a yandere for her idol. 😐
The art was good, I loved the character designs from Chiro and Sakiko.
Oh, and I just wish we could have heard music along with the guerrilla concert! The group was just so vibrant and fun and I just wanted to hear the music they were singing. To be part of it.
So, I won’t be continuing this story. I don’t want a story featuring a yandere girl who goes WAY too far and gets WAY too creepy. Again, if it was just Sakiko and Chiro, I would have read on and on as each volume came out.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 5, 2022
Sakiko is a shy girl who draws strength from Chiro-chan, an idol in the up-and-coming group Spring Sunshine. So when the very cute Chihiro sits next to her at school and bears a striking resemblance, Sakiko can’t handle it, but maybe Chihiro’s more relatable than she thinks…
That description sure promises a charming tale of friendship as one girl deals with the strains of being a growing talent and the other learns to be a little more confident in herself. And, to an extent, this book delivers on this.
To an extent.
Sakiko is very, very downtrodden and her love of Chihiro’s talents has pushed her towards trying to be a better person. And even within the scope of dealing with having a famous person as a friend, she learns more about herself and genuinely grows as a person.
Chihiro is, on the surface, a very sweet, somewhat nervous girl herself, who is able to hide that side of herself when she performs. She’s hard-working and earnest and the story makes it completely believable that Sakiko would look up to somebody like this. We also see hints that this life is not all it’s cracked up to be for her.
Oh, but there are three main characters in this book. And that third one will almost certainly make or break this story for you because she is an absolute nightmare of a human being.
Maaya is also a super fan of Chihiro’s, but she’s also a raving lunatic try-hard with a shrine in her bedroom who’s been outed as a cyber bully whose reign of terror spanned multiple accounts and has a psychotic desire to protect Chihiro’s honour.
In the process of so doing, she harasses, stalks, and otherwise bullies Sakiko relentlessly, preying on the latter’s insecurities to convince her to keep her distance. Please be aware that this manga believes this is funny, watching as Maaya makes painful attempts to get closer to Chihiro while Sakiko does it just by being herself.
It’s a very, very long walk to the point that she forces Sakiko to deal with her personal issues a little (there’s some tough love for you), while Maaya herself is thwarted at every turn because Sakiko knows a little respect and means well. Stepping around the fact that Maaya would clearly turn on Chihiro in five seconds if she stepped out of Maaya’s ideal image of her.
There’s probably a tragic backstory to explain why Maaya wants this so bad, but only knows how to be excessively creepy and weird, but it’d have to be pretty spectacular to excuse even a smidgen of this.
The book finds its footing towards the end, when it balances Maaya being insane with Sakiko’s recognition of a little of Maaya in herself that lets her express sympathy for this particular devil. It starts to strike a balance of sorts with Maaya being integrated into the friend group but also “playfully” inserting herself between Sakiko and Chihiro constantly (she does have a moment or two where she and Sakiko bond, but it is way too little, way too late for this volume).
Really, Sakiko and Chihiro are the reason for this book and if the story had focused on the two of them it would be better. There’s just so much about Maaya that’s unpalatable, even if the story is trying to make a point about obsessive fans. The fact that it technically rewards this behaviour muddies the waters even more.
2.5 stars - I liked parts of this book as much as I really loathed other parts. It’s not getting 3 stars because of obvious reasons, but it will get the Second Volume Chance (tm) because it has a great core that really needs to jettison some of its problems to realize its potential.
That description sure promises a charming tale of friendship as one girl deals with the strains of being a growing talent and the other learns to be a little more confident in herself. And, to an extent, this book delivers on this.
To an extent.
Sakiko is very, very downtrodden and her love of Chihiro’s talents has pushed her towards trying to be a better person. And even within the scope of dealing with having a famous person as a friend, she learns more about herself and genuinely grows as a person.
Chihiro is, on the surface, a very sweet, somewhat nervous girl herself, who is able to hide that side of herself when she performs. She’s hard-working and earnest and the story makes it completely believable that Sakiko would look up to somebody like this. We also see hints that this life is not all it’s cracked up to be for her.
Oh, but there are three main characters in this book. And that third one will almost certainly make or break this story for you because she is an absolute nightmare of a human being.
Maaya is also a super fan of Chihiro’s, but she’s also a raving lunatic try-hard with a shrine in her bedroom who’s been outed as a cyber bully whose reign of terror spanned multiple accounts and has a psychotic desire to protect Chihiro’s honour.
In the process of so doing, she harasses, stalks, and otherwise bullies Sakiko relentlessly, preying on the latter’s insecurities to convince her to keep her distance. Please be aware that this manga believes this is funny, watching as Maaya makes painful attempts to get closer to Chihiro while Sakiko does it just by being herself.
It’s a very, very long walk to the point that she forces Sakiko to deal with her personal issues a little (there’s some tough love for you), while Maaya herself is thwarted at every turn because Sakiko knows a little respect and means well. Stepping around the fact that Maaya would clearly turn on Chihiro in five seconds if she stepped out of Maaya’s ideal image of her.
There’s probably a tragic backstory to explain why Maaya wants this so bad, but only knows how to be excessively creepy and weird, but it’d have to be pretty spectacular to excuse even a smidgen of this.
The book finds its footing towards the end, when it balances Maaya being insane with Sakiko’s recognition of a little of Maaya in herself that lets her express sympathy for this particular devil. It starts to strike a balance of sorts with Maaya being integrated into the friend group but also “playfully” inserting herself between Sakiko and Chihiro constantly (she does have a moment or two where she and Sakiko bond, but it is way too little, way too late for this volume).
Really, Sakiko and Chihiro are the reason for this book and if the story had focused on the two of them it would be better. There’s just so much about Maaya that’s unpalatable, even if the story is trying to make a point about obsessive fans. The fact that it technically rewards this behaviour muddies the waters even more.
2.5 stars - I liked parts of this book as much as I really loathed other parts. It’s not getting 3 stars because of obvious reasons, but it will get the Second Volume Chance (tm) because it has a great core that really needs to jettison some of its problems to realize its potential.
April 6, 2025
Sakiko is a die-hard fan of the upcoming idol girl group Spring Shine, so of course when the new girl at school introduces herself to the class, she immediately recognizes her as her very favorite singer Chiro-chan.
This is a cute, breezy read about a young fangirl working very hard to balance her adoration of singer Chihiro with her wish to be friends on a personal level. There’s plenty of humor, and I enjoyed the developing friendship (and maybe more – well, it’s a yuri manga, so what do you expect?) between the two.
However, there is a third member in this equation, an obsessive fangirl called Maaya, who insists on having Chihiro all to herself. In contrast to Sakiko’s respectful fangirling, Maaya stalks Chihiro and cyberbullies anyone she thinks might come ‘between’ them. Had her existence been mentioned in the premise, I probably wouldn’t have been so taken aback, but as things stand, while I could see what the author is probably trying to do with her character, she just got on my nerves.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is a cute, breezy read about a young fangirl working very hard to balance her adoration of singer Chihiro with her wish to be friends on a personal level. There’s plenty of humor, and I enjoyed the developing friendship (and maybe more – well, it’s a yuri manga, so what do you expect?) between the two.
However, there is a third member in this equation, an obsessive fangirl called Maaya, who insists on having Chihiro all to herself. In contrast to Sakiko’s respectful fangirling, Maaya stalks Chihiro and cyberbullies anyone she thinks might come ‘between’ them. Had her existence been mentioned in the premise, I probably wouldn’t have been so taken aback, but as things stand, while I could see what the author is probably trying to do with her character, she just got on my nerves.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 13, 2022
Thank you to Kodansha Comics for providing me with an e-ARC of My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! in exchange for an honest review!
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! is a fairly cute manga that centers around two girls (one semi-normal & the other a superfan of idol, Chiro-Chan. There's a cute lil' heartwarming friendship that we love to see, but we also have cyberbullying & manipulation.
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! was a fun read, but I don't think it's a series that I care to continue with.
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! is a fairly cute manga that centers around two girls (one semi-normal & the other a superfan of idol, Chiro-Chan. There's a cute lil' heartwarming friendship that we love to see, but we also have cyberbullying & manipulation.
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! was a fun read, but I don't think it's a series that I care to continue with.
January 6, 2022
***I was given this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
Probably more of a 3.5*. This was super cute. This is for anyone who has ever had a fantasy of what it would be like for one of their favorite singers or actors to become a student at their school. The art was absolutely adorable and I found the love and adoration the main character had for the pop star super relatable to how I would have been in a similar situation. Hopelessly awkward. I just don’t see how much farther the story can go in future volumes.
Probably more of a 3.5*. This was super cute. This is for anyone who has ever had a fantasy of what it would be like for one of their favorite singers or actors to become a student at their school. The art was absolutely adorable and I found the love and adoration the main character had for the pop star super relatable to how I would have been in a similar situation. Hopelessly awkward. I just don’t see how much farther the story can go in future volumes.
April 6, 2022
It took me a while to get into it, mostly because I don't understand the idol culture.
The whole plot was just so troublesome to me, I could not wrap my head around it.
I wish I could say something more but I have nothing?
The only thing I liked was that the main character was not some psychotic person, unlike one of the side characters. Aaah. I just don't think this was for me.
The whole plot was just so troublesome to me, I could not wrap my head around it.
I wish I could say something more but I have nothing?
The only thing I liked was that the main character was not some psychotic person, unlike one of the side characters. Aaah. I just don't think this was for me.
January 22, 2022
This was cute!! Sakiko is a normal everyday girl who happens to be a huge fan of singer Chihiro from the idol group Spring Sunshine. Out of nowhere, she finds herself not only sitting next to Chihiro but also becoming friends with the idol. I have to admit, at first Sakiko was way too much of a nervous wreck for me at the beginning of the book. She was just constantly freaking out. But she is a school girl who gets to hang out with the person she admires most in the world, so I guess who wouldn't be a nervous wreck in that situation?! I can only imagine how intense that would be and we see Sakiko figure it out as she goes, hoping that she doesn't embarrass herself too badly along the way. And who knows, maybe she could end up being real friends with her favorite idol... Except, did I mention the creepy stalker girl trying to take Chihiro for herself?
I would recommend this book for anyone who has fantasized about becoming best friends with a celebrity so that you can fangirl through Sakiko.
A review copy of this ebook was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
I would recommend this book for anyone who has fantasized about becoming best friends with a celebrity so that you can fangirl through Sakiko.
A review copy of this ebook was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
February 2, 2022
I received a copy of this manga through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t really get overly obsessed fans, in real life it just gets creepy. People tend to forget that celebrities are people too, with their own feelings and everyday lives. I know I would be starstruck if I would meet someone famous but I would also try to keep it real and as normal as possible.🙂
The manga took a humorous take on the whole celebrity meeting a fan troupe. Our main fangirl is quite reasonable and adorable in her fascination. The rivalry between her and another fangirl is funny and mostly harmless. Overall a cute manga!😊
I don’t really get overly obsessed fans, in real life it just gets creepy. People tend to forget that celebrities are people too, with their own feelings and everyday lives. I know I would be starstruck if I would meet someone famous but I would also try to keep it real and as normal as possible.🙂
The manga took a humorous take on the whole celebrity meeting a fan troupe. Our main fangirl is quite reasonable and adorable in her fascination. The rivalry between her and another fangirl is funny and mostly harmless. Overall a cute manga!😊
January 11, 2022
My title: 15 yro Idol Stalkers
Fav character: Takizawa
Readability: Easy
3.8/5
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ High school awkwardness (if you’re a fan)
~ What it must be like to be an idol in Japan at an ordinary school
~ The ideal of cuteness reigns supreme
~ A quick and easy beginning to a story that can go either way (scary or fun)
You are OBSESSED with an idol. A girl, your age, who has transformed your life and has allowed you to see yourself in her. You want nothing more than to shower her with gifts, be present at all of her shows and support her with cute little messages of encouragement, every and anywhere you can. Yes, YOU ARE AN IDOL STALKER - LEAVE THE PERSON ALONE! Ehem, not only this, but now…as you walk into school, you notice her standing, in your uniform and later seated next to you. What do you do?! Should you play down your obsession and respect her attempt at an ordinary life? And what if there is another fan as obsessed as you who may just endanger her life and yours… what do you do then?
🤣 I went the scary route… but this is how this story can legit turn out. For now the girls are getting to know each other, but there are still many layers to unravel.
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ Peer pressure galore and caving into manipulators
~ I couldn’t understand the level of obsession with an idol 😬
~ Borderline behaviour that could REALLY be problematic in real life
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
Fav character: Takizawa
Readability: Easy
3.8/5
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ High school awkwardness (if you’re a fan)
~ What it must be like to be an idol in Japan at an ordinary school
~ The ideal of cuteness reigns supreme
~ A quick and easy beginning to a story that can go either way (scary or fun)
You are OBSESSED with an idol. A girl, your age, who has transformed your life and has allowed you to see yourself in her. You want nothing more than to shower her with gifts, be present at all of her shows and support her with cute little messages of encouragement, every and anywhere you can. Yes, YOU ARE AN IDOL STALKER - LEAVE THE PERSON ALONE! Ehem, not only this, but now…as you walk into school, you notice her standing, in your uniform and later seated next to you. What do you do?! Should you play down your obsession and respect her attempt at an ordinary life? And what if there is another fan as obsessed as you who may just endanger her life and yours… what do you do then?
🤣 I went the scary route… but this is how this story can legit turn out. For now the girls are getting to know each other, but there are still many layers to unravel.
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ Peer pressure galore and caving into manipulators
~ I couldn’t understand the level of obsession with an idol 😬
~ Borderline behaviour that could REALLY be problematic in real life
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
January 18, 2022
Sakiko Manaka joined a new class dreaming to have a great time with her new classmates but unfortunately the spotlight was snatched by another girl, Chiro-chan, who is a world-class idol. Sakiko is a huge fan of the group to which Chiro-chan belongs and she is specifically head to toe in love for her idol, Chiro-chan.
A fan with her idol in the same classroom, if that wasn't enough there is one more fan of Chiro-chan who is in the same class and wants to have all of Chiro-chan's attention to herself!
This is a funny and hilarious tale of two fans fighting over their idol's attention.
A fan with her idol in the same classroom, if that wasn't enough there is one more fan of Chiro-chan who is in the same class and wants to have all of Chiro-chan's attention to herself!
This is a funny and hilarious tale of two fans fighting over their idol's attention.
January 10, 2022
This is a cute book that was slightly ruined by one character. I thought this was going to be a manga about a shy girl becoming friends with her idol and learning some confidence. Unfortunately, the character of Maaya is introduced who is a crazy super fan of Chihiro. And she is just the worst. She stalks, threatens, cyberbullies, and otherwise harasses the main character. Her personality and involvement in the story sour the cute story of budding friendship into one that is constantly being bombarded by aggression.
The art itself is standard and nice, totally what you would expect in shojo manga. I hope this manga developed the friendship of the two main girls more and forgets Maaya, but I doubt it. I will probably not be continuing but I hope it improves!
The art itself is standard and nice, totally what you would expect in shojo manga. I hope this manga developed the friendship of the two main girls more and forgets Maaya, but I doubt it. I will probably not be continuing but I hope it improves!
January 12, 2022
3☆
We follow three main characters:
1. Sakiko, who on the first day of school is seated beside her idol.
2. Chihiro, previously mentioned idol, member of a girl group called Spring Sunshine.
3. Maaya, an extreme fan of Chihiro (stalks her, has a shrine, etc), but doesn't want the latter to know that fact.
I like where this could be going, a strange friendship between the three of them. Hopefully, Maaya (which is kind of insufferable at this point) becomes less creepy in the next volumes. Also, I really liked the cute art style.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
We follow three main characters:
1. Sakiko, who on the first day of school is seated beside her idol.
2. Chihiro, previously mentioned idol, member of a girl group called Spring Sunshine.
3. Maaya, an extreme fan of Chihiro (stalks her, has a shrine, etc), but doesn't want the latter to know that fact.
I like where this could be going, a strange friendship between the three of them. Hopefully, Maaya (which is kind of insufferable at this point) becomes less creepy in the next volumes. Also, I really liked the cute art style.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2022
Sakiko is a shy girl who isn’t very good at talking to people and her only hobby is listening to music, especially her favorite idol band, Spring Sunshine. So it is simultaneously her best and worst dream coming true when she realizes on the first day of her new school that her classmate, is her favorite idol, Chiro, from Spring Sunshine.
Based on the first part I thought the story would focus on the two girls becoming friends and becoming better thanks to their connection. Sakiko could learn to be more confident and treat everyone equally, like a regular human being even if it is a very famous person and Chiro could learn how to make friends where she can be just her regular self and get better at social interactions. However the story quickly took a 180 turn with the addition of another fan, of the obsessive stalker kind, and for a few chapters I suddenly found myself in one of those tragic magial girl stories (or just trapped in W*xoss) again where your main characters rarely have happy endings.
I could have appreciated it, if the story followed this direction through, but after a few chapters it seemed like the mood returned to what we originally started with: a wholesome story about fandom and idols. The reason this is super off putting, is because Sakiko is ignoring huge red flags (repeated stalking, bullying, obsession) and writing them off as “harmless” actions of a fellow idol fan. It makes it seems like these kind of behaviors are okay, which isn’t true.
I am not exactly sure where the story is headed now - will those red flags have a real consequence or will the story continue to play them off as pranks and quirks since it’s “harmless anyway”? I would honestly prefer if the story went in the darker direction because while it is a bit disturbing, it is realistic and it could serve as a cautionary tale. On the other hand if the obsessive fan is forever treated as a comic relief it could send the wrong message, that it’s okay to ignore red flags like this in real life situations, which shouldn’t happen.
All in all the art is absolutely wonderful and the premise is really interesting. I wish we had a bit more character depth and learn more about character motivations eg. it is unclear why Chiro thinks Saki would be a great friend to have when she acted somewhat creepy towards her? Although, I guess she could be just very naive as she doesn’t seem to have the best sense about who she becomes friends with.
Based on the first part I thought the story would focus on the two girls becoming friends and becoming better thanks to their connection. Sakiko could learn to be more confident and treat everyone equally, like a regular human being even if it is a very famous person and Chiro could learn how to make friends where she can be just her regular self and get better at social interactions. However the story quickly took a 180 turn with the addition of another fan, of the obsessive stalker kind, and for a few chapters I suddenly found myself in one of those tragic magial girl stories (or just trapped in W*xoss) again where your main characters rarely have happy endings.
I could have appreciated it, if the story followed this direction through, but after a few chapters it seemed like the mood returned to what we originally started with: a wholesome story about fandom and idols. The reason this is super off putting, is because Sakiko is ignoring huge red flags (repeated stalking, bullying, obsession) and writing them off as “harmless” actions of a fellow idol fan. It makes it seems like these kind of behaviors are okay, which isn’t true.
I am not exactly sure where the story is headed now - will those red flags have a real consequence or will the story continue to play them off as pranks and quirks since it’s “harmless anyway”? I would honestly prefer if the story went in the darker direction because while it is a bit disturbing, it is realistic and it could serve as a cautionary tale. On the other hand if the obsessive fan is forever treated as a comic relief it could send the wrong message, that it’s okay to ignore red flags like this in real life situations, which shouldn’t happen.
All in all the art is absolutely wonderful and the premise is really interesting. I wish we had a bit more character depth and learn more about character motivations eg. it is unclear why Chiro thinks Saki would be a great friend to have when she acted somewhat creepy towards her? Although, I guess she could be just very naive as she doesn’t seem to have the best sense about who she becomes friends with.
January 27, 2022
Manaka-san is over the moon when her favorite pop idol, Yoshida-san happens to be her school’s newest student; even more exciting Yoshida-san sits right next to her in class! A mix of panic and joy sets in as Manaka-san tries to find a balance between being Yoshida-san’s friend and her biggest fan.
Yoshida-san is pretty much perfect in every way. She’s kind and pretty; well-liked by everyone. She desperately wants to have a normal school life which quickly becomes apparent as she befriends Manaka-san. It’s pretty adorable as she tries to make their friendship blossom despite Manaka’s anxiety.
However, trouble brews when another girl in their class, Maaya-chan decides that there is only room for one best friend in Yoshida’s life, and it’s gonna be her! Maaya is incredibly manipulative and possessive over her idol and fails to treat Yoshida-san like a real person. Instead, Maaya acts like a rabid fangirl and worse starts to cyber and then physically bully Manaka.
Overall I’m not that enamored with the plot. The premise is a bit too generic for my tastes, but I would definitely continue reading this. Volume 1 was a decent size with lots of character development. The art definitely enhances the story as characters are drawn in dynamic ways. I especially like how Maaya-chan is drawn as she vacillates wildly between being cloyingly nice and an absolute monster.
I also feel that the cover image for this manga isn’t that great. It’s a bit plain, which I imagine may affect whether or not people read it. That being said, if you see it on the shelf, don’t dismiss it too readily. It’s worth giving a shot.
Yoshida-san is pretty much perfect in every way. She’s kind and pretty; well-liked by everyone. She desperately wants to have a normal school life which quickly becomes apparent as she befriends Manaka-san. It’s pretty adorable as she tries to make their friendship blossom despite Manaka’s anxiety.
However, trouble brews when another girl in their class, Maaya-chan decides that there is only room for one best friend in Yoshida’s life, and it’s gonna be her! Maaya is incredibly manipulative and possessive over her idol and fails to treat Yoshida-san like a real person. Instead, Maaya acts like a rabid fangirl and worse starts to cyber and then physically bully Manaka.
Overall I’m not that enamored with the plot. The premise is a bit too generic for my tastes, but I would definitely continue reading this. Volume 1 was a decent size with lots of character development. The art definitely enhances the story as characters are drawn in dynamic ways. I especially like how Maaya-chan is drawn as she vacillates wildly between being cloyingly nice and an absolute monster.
I also feel that the cover image for this manga isn’t that great. It’s a bit plain, which I imagine may affect whether or not people read it. That being said, if you see it on the shelf, don’t dismiss it too readily. It’s worth giving a shot.
January 14, 2022
A cute, heart-warming story about friendship and fandom!
This is the first volume of My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! The book introduces us to shy Sakiko Manaka, a big fan of the idol group Spring Sunshine, who unexpectedly became classmates and seatmate to Chihiro Yoshida, her favorite idol! Resolving misunderstandings, overcoming shyness, and solving an unexpected threat – while both navigating a school life and fandom life, respectively.
This manga is really sweet! This volume is a solid first volume, with a lot of stories developing besides introducing us to our main characters. I love the overall theme of the story, which focuses on friendship. I also like how Sakiko tries to overcome her shyness and understand someone different from her. Sakiko and Chihiro are wonderful pure characters, and I would love to know them more!
Thank you, NetGalley and Kodansha, for the eARC!
This is the first volume of My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! The book introduces us to shy Sakiko Manaka, a big fan of the idol group Spring Sunshine, who unexpectedly became classmates and seatmate to Chihiro Yoshida, her favorite idol! Resolving misunderstandings, overcoming shyness, and solving an unexpected threat – while both navigating a school life and fandom life, respectively.
This manga is really sweet! This volume is a solid first volume, with a lot of stories developing besides introducing us to our main characters. I love the overall theme of the story, which focuses on friendship. I also like how Sakiko tries to overcome her shyness and understand someone different from her. Sakiko and Chihiro are wonderful pure characters, and I would love to know them more!
Thank you, NetGalley and Kodansha, for the eARC!
February 22, 2022
Super cute story about friendship! This is a bit different than any other manga I have read sine my niche genre is shojo romance manga. But I am loving this first volume.
Sakiko Manaka is a superfan of the idol group Spring Sunshine. One day, she becomes classmates and seatmate to Chihiro Yoshida, her favorite idol from the group. And to her surprise, Chihiro is super cute and friendly. However, Sakiko starts to receive some mean messages from another fan who is jealous of her seating.
To be honest, I have never been a superfan of anyone... okay, maybe a certain boy band in the 1990s... but no where near as obsessive as the girls in this story. I can't say I relate to the characters but the drama and excitement definitely makes for a good story!
The story balances cute with some dark themes but I think it will all work out in the end. I am also interested to see if a romance blooms with Sakiko and a certain photography club member...
Sakiko Manaka is a superfan of the idol group Spring Sunshine. One day, she becomes classmates and seatmate to Chihiro Yoshida, her favorite idol from the group. And to her surprise, Chihiro is super cute and friendly. However, Sakiko starts to receive some mean messages from another fan who is jealous of her seating.
To be honest, I have never been a superfan of anyone... okay, maybe a certain boy band in the 1990s... but no where near as obsessive as the girls in this story. I can't say I relate to the characters but the drama and excitement definitely makes for a good story!
The story balances cute with some dark themes but I think it will all work out in the end. I am also interested to see if a romance blooms with Sakiko and a certain photography club member...
February 23, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-copy of this manga in exchange of an honest review.
Una historia interesante, pero no tan atrapante. La verdad me resultó una trama plana, Chihiro no se entera de nada, Saki es muy crédula y la otra chica tiene una personalidad completamente desesperantes.
Aún así el último capítulo te deja con ganas de saber más de estos personajes, y quedé con ganas de saber cómo comenzará el siguiente volumen de la historia.
Merged review:
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-copy of this manga in exchange of an honest review.
2.5★
Una historia interesante, pero no tan atrapante. La verdad me resultó una trama plana, Chihiro no se entera de nada, Saki es muy crédula y la otra chica tiene una personalidad completamente desesperantes.
Aún así el último capítulo te deja con ganas de saber más de estos personajes, y quedé con ganas de saber cómo comenzará el siguiente volumen de la historia.
Una historia interesante, pero no tan atrapante. La verdad me resultó una trama plana, Chihiro no se entera de nada, Saki es muy crédula y la otra chica tiene una personalidad completamente desesperantes.
Aún así el último capítulo te deja con ganas de saber más de estos personajes, y quedé con ganas de saber cómo comenzará el siguiente volumen de la historia.
Merged review:
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-copy of this manga in exchange of an honest review.
2.5★
Una historia interesante, pero no tan atrapante. La verdad me resultó una trama plana, Chihiro no se entera de nada, Saki es muy crédula y la otra chica tiene una personalidad completamente desesperantes.
Aún así el último capítulo te deja con ganas de saber más de estos personajes, y quedé con ganas de saber cómo comenzará el siguiente volumen de la historia.
April 16, 2022
This was a cute and heartfelt manga!
Sakiko is a shy girl who loves music. In fact there is an idol group she stans, which is called Spring sunshine. When Sakiko transfers to a new school she dreads to make friends but gets flustered and nervous when she finds that her desk mate is one of the members of her favorite idol group.
Chiro chan is bubbly, pretty and exactly opposite of Sakiko. Their dynamic was so cute to read about. At first the story focuses on them getting to know each other and bonding. And the only thing that didn't sit right with me was one of the new additions to the duo, even though she is a fan of the spring sunshine. But she is a crazy fan, she stalks Chiro and invades her personal space.
Nevertheless, I'm so excited to read about the relationship progress between Sakiko and Chiro chan.
Sakiko is a shy girl who loves music. In fact there is an idol group she stans, which is called Spring sunshine. When Sakiko transfers to a new school she dreads to make friends but gets flustered and nervous when she finds that her desk mate is one of the members of her favorite idol group.
Chiro chan is bubbly, pretty and exactly opposite of Sakiko. Their dynamic was so cute to read about. At first the story focuses on them getting to know each other and bonding. And the only thing that didn't sit right with me was one of the new additions to the duo, even though she is a fan of the spring sunshine. But she is a crazy fan, she stalks Chiro and invades her personal space.
Nevertheless, I'm so excited to read about the relationship progress between Sakiko and Chiro chan.
October 28, 2024
My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! This manga was good, maybe not exactly type of mangas I love to read, cause it didn't include that much romance, so the plot of it wasn't really for me. Tho not talking about that, characters were pretty cute and the artwork is amazing as always.
First half of the manga was a bit hard to read for me, I wasn't really invested and a bit bored I started liking it more just by the end of a volume. I assume I would like to know what happens next, but it wasn't enough for me to actually buy a copy of it.
The story itself wasn't too bad, but it wasn't type of manga I would want to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for giving me a copy of this online manga in exchange for an honest review.
First half of the manga was a bit hard to read for me, I wasn't really invested and a bit bored I started liking it more just by the end of a volume. I assume I would like to know what happens next, but it wasn't enough for me to actually buy a copy of it.
The story itself wasn't too bad, but it wasn't type of manga I would want to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for giving me a copy of this online manga in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2022
Sakiko new seat neighbor happens to be her favorite idol chihiro! Sakiko is a shy but is slowly growing more confident while being with with chihiro. But while making friends with chihiro, Sakiko is getting bullied from another crazy fan of chihiros who also goes to the same school!
I actually thought the story was super cute! I really like the sapphic feel of it. I also loved how it was drawn and it felt super easy to read. I had a slight hard time with the heavy bullying from Maaya. But other than that it was a super cute shoujo and I can’t wait to read vol 2!
I actually thought the story was super cute! I really like the sapphic feel of it. I also loved how it was drawn and it felt super easy to read. I had a slight hard time with the heavy bullying from Maaya. But other than that it was a super cute shoujo and I can’t wait to read vol 2!
January 23, 2022
This was my first manga ever read, so I was ocassionaly confused with reading directions.
I liked the plot, but I didn't understand Sakiko's actions. I knew she was crazy about Chiro but she didn't know how to behave around her. I think the problem was in my "reading this manga", I'm not used to read between the "lines". or should I say sketches.
I think this would be pretty good story without the third person- stalker, who pretends not to know Chiro's popularity.
Overall I enjoyed in this manga and cute encounters between the girls.
I liked the plot, but I didn't understand Sakiko's actions. I knew she was crazy about Chiro but she didn't know how to behave around her. I think the problem was in my "reading this manga", I'm not used to read between the "lines". or should I say sketches.
I think this would be pretty good story without the third person- stalker, who pretends not to know Chiro's popularity.
Overall I enjoyed in this manga and cute encounters between the girls.
January 20, 2022
I absolutely love manga, so I was so excited to read this, this is so adorable, different from my usual manga reads and so unusual, the relationship between Chiro and Saki is so fun and I can’t wait to see it develop over future volumes. Thoroughly recommended for fun, happiness and great characters
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
January 19, 2022
All sorts of surprises hit in this cute tale of a girl, who encounters her biggest idol and even gets the chance to become true friends.
Sakiko Manaka is a normal girl, who superly adores a talented star, Chiro-chan. When a new girl arrives at school and sits only a desk away, Sakiko can't believe her idol now sits right next to her. Concentrating on school is out of the question, and instead, Sakiko's determined to become friends with Chiro-chan...an amazing mission! But when another girl in class proves to be a super-fan-girl, too, with similar intentions but not so great means, the battle is on.
I do enjoy the art in this one. Sakiko and Chiro-chan come across wonderfully as, especially Sakiko's emotions radiate from every page in the same over-the-top manner that a true fan girl needs to have. They simply draw a smile and make it hard not to root for Sakiko no matter how overly strong this idolizing is. Plus, the text mixed well with each scene and really creates a nice balance, which flies by easily and draws in, at the same time.
This is a humorous book about forming friendship with two girls, who are very different, and yet, face struggles which the other one can balance out. The situations are funny but do strike a familiar chord and reflect some of the same issues readers face every day...just not quite like in this story. It's not a problem to root for both girls as they struggle past their own problems and near friendship more and more.
While there is tons to enjoy, I did have a problem with the 'other' character. This one is not mentioned in the blurb and added a direction I'm not sure how to see. The other fan girl in the class, who also tries to develop a type of friendship with Chiro-chan, is much more ill-intentioned. Bullying and mean plots twists problems in, which if fine if it'd be seen as such. But in this book, it seems to be an attempt at a comic relief, which doesn't quite work. Instead, I was left wondering about the girl's background and wished she would get help of some sort.
As to the future reads, I'm not sure where this series will go. this first book was a fun read, for the most part, but it's not clear how things will advance or heighten from this point. But I guess I'll have to wait and see. And I do think book 2 will be worth a read to find out. I received an ARC through Netgalley.
Sakiko Manaka is a normal girl, who superly adores a talented star, Chiro-chan. When a new girl arrives at school and sits only a desk away, Sakiko can't believe her idol now sits right next to her. Concentrating on school is out of the question, and instead, Sakiko's determined to become friends with Chiro-chan...an amazing mission! But when another girl in class proves to be a super-fan-girl, too, with similar intentions but not so great means, the battle is on.
I do enjoy the art in this one. Sakiko and Chiro-chan come across wonderfully as, especially Sakiko's emotions radiate from every page in the same over-the-top manner that a true fan girl needs to have. They simply draw a smile and make it hard not to root for Sakiko no matter how overly strong this idolizing is. Plus, the text mixed well with each scene and really creates a nice balance, which flies by easily and draws in, at the same time.
This is a humorous book about forming friendship with two girls, who are very different, and yet, face struggles which the other one can balance out. The situations are funny but do strike a familiar chord and reflect some of the same issues readers face every day...just not quite like in this story. It's not a problem to root for both girls as they struggle past their own problems and near friendship more and more.
While there is tons to enjoy, I did have a problem with the 'other' character. This one is not mentioned in the blurb and added a direction I'm not sure how to see. The other fan girl in the class, who also tries to develop a type of friendship with Chiro-chan, is much more ill-intentioned. Bullying and mean plots twists problems in, which if fine if it'd be seen as such. But in this book, it seems to be an attempt at a comic relief, which doesn't quite work. Instead, I was left wondering about the girl's background and wished she would get help of some sort.
As to the future reads, I'm not sure where this series will go. this first book was a fun read, for the most part, but it's not clear how things will advance or heighten from this point. But I guess I'll have to wait and see. And I do think book 2 will be worth a read to find out. I received an ARC through Netgalley.
July 1, 2022
What would you do if your idol transferred to your school, but nobody seemed to recognize her? This is the question that My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! Vol. 1 decided to tackle.
Sakiko Manaka is obsessed with Chiro-chan. Not in an unhealthy way; she just thinks that Chiro-chan is the best idol out there and that the world will someday see this and agree with her. So imagine Sakiko's surprise (and delight) when her favorite idol walked into her classroom one day.
Only nobody else seems to know that it's Chiro-chan. She seems to be trying to fly under the radar, likely hoping to get a good education. As a fan, it is Sakiko's duty to keep this secret.
Oh my, goodness, did this series have potential! I love the premise of My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! Vol. 1. For the first few chapters, I was hooked. The plot was strong enough on its own before they decided to go and throw in another complication.
Unfortunately, I didn't really like that complication. Her name is Maaya Tozawa, and this girl should probably come with her own trigger warnings. She's a stalker and cyberbully and is pretty willing to do whatever it takes to get closer to her idol, including indulging in abusive behavior.
It adds a sour tone to what was otherwise an endearing and charming series. I didn't like how lightly the whole Maaya plot was addressed. Heck (spoiler warning), at one point, Sakiko invites Maaya into the friend group, knowing full well that she's a cyberbully. Not only was this pretty naive, but it was unkind to Chiro-chan, whom she didn't bother to warn (side note: if you know somebody is stalking your friend, TELL THEM).
Long story short, I had high hopes for My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! Vol. 1, but they kinda fell flat thanks to a couple (read: one) unnecessary plot points.
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Comics
Sakiko Manaka is obsessed with Chiro-chan. Not in an unhealthy way; she just thinks that Chiro-chan is the best idol out there and that the world will someday see this and agree with her. So imagine Sakiko's surprise (and delight) when her favorite idol walked into her classroom one day.
Only nobody else seems to know that it's Chiro-chan. She seems to be trying to fly under the radar, likely hoping to get a good education. As a fan, it is Sakiko's duty to keep this secret.
Oh my, goodness, did this series have potential! I love the premise of My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! Vol. 1. For the first few chapters, I was hooked. The plot was strong enough on its own before they decided to go and throw in another complication.
Unfortunately, I didn't really like that complication. Her name is Maaya Tozawa, and this girl should probably come with her own trigger warnings. She's a stalker and cyberbully and is pretty willing to do whatever it takes to get closer to her idol, including indulging in abusive behavior.
It adds a sour tone to what was otherwise an endearing and charming series. I didn't like how lightly the whole Maaya plot was addressed. Heck (spoiler warning), at one point, Sakiko invites Maaya into the friend group, knowing full well that she's a cyberbully. Not only was this pretty naive, but it was unkind to Chiro-chan, whom she didn't bother to warn (side note: if you know somebody is stalking your friend, TELL THEM).
Long story short, I had high hopes for My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! Vol. 1, but they kinda fell flat thanks to a couple (read: one) unnecessary plot points.
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Comics
February 12, 2022
It started off so strong. The dynamic between Sakiko and Chihiro was so good, the relationship between the two had so much potential. Learning about Sakiko’s introduction to the ‘Spring Shine’ idol group and her how she related with the Idol ‘Chiro’ was super sweet. I could totally see it going off into being something light, cute, and fun.
The flashback where Sakiko receives her CD from Chihiro really captured the awkward embarrassed nervousness of meeting someone you idolise. Even the performance at the end followed my, albeit limited, idol concert experience.
But then comes Maaya and everything falls apart... She’s practically sociopathic, thoroughly possessive of Chihiro, actively stalking her (with obligatory secret wardrobe shrine), has harassed and threatened other fans on 'totally not twitter', and even clearly states that Chihiro belongs all to her. She selfishly forces a fake friendship with Chihiro and actively hides the fact she knows Chihiro is an Idol. As soon as Maaya discovers that Sakiko is a threat to her possessive delusions she jealously escalates into outright bulling and even assault of poor Sakiko.
Maaya adds nothing but unnecessary (in my opinion) conflict to the story.
There’ll obviously be some kind of future arc focusing on how/why Maaya became so obsessed over Chihiro and everyone will become ‘super happy friends’. But she’s so much of a c__t I really don’t have the interest in getting there.
The flashback where Sakiko receives her CD from Chihiro really captured the awkward embarrassed nervousness of meeting someone you idolise. Even the performance at the end followed my, albeit limited, idol concert experience.
But then comes Maaya and everything falls apart... She’s practically sociopathic, thoroughly possessive of Chihiro, actively stalking her (with obligatory secret wardrobe shrine), has harassed and threatened other fans on 'totally not twitter', and even clearly states that Chihiro belongs all to her. She selfishly forces a fake friendship with Chihiro and actively hides the fact she knows Chihiro is an Idol. As soon as Maaya discovers that Sakiko is a threat to her possessive delusions she jealously escalates into outright bulling and even assault of poor Sakiko.
Maaya adds nothing but unnecessary (in my opinion) conflict to the story.
There’ll obviously be some kind of future arc focusing on how/why Maaya became so obsessed over Chihiro and everyone will become ‘super happy friends’. But she’s so much of a c__t I really don’t have the interest in getting there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Kodansha for the review copy.
In the last couple of years, I’ve taken trying all different types of genres within Manga and have found a few gems. Some are more surprising than others. My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! is one of them.
While I anticipated a cute, maybe somewhat awkward story I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this. The blurb doesn’t mention the third main character, another girl called Maaya. Just like Sakiko Manaka she is a fan of Chihiro, but she feels an entitled ownership of her idol. The direct opposite of Sakiko’s mindset and actions.
I have a feeling that has the story continues there will be more about why Maaya is the way she is but the first instalment sets up the story for her to be redeemable or to be dangerous. I’m interested to see how which direction this takes.
Alongside Maaya’s influence on the story we have the sweetness of Sakiko and the budding friendship between Sakiko and Chihiro. There is definitely a lot of “nice” in My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over!, making it a pleasant read with a good balance of potential darker drama.
In the last couple of years, I’ve taken trying all different types of genres within Manga and have found a few gems. Some are more surprising than others. My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over! is one of them.
While I anticipated a cute, maybe somewhat awkward story I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this. The blurb doesn’t mention the third main character, another girl called Maaya. Just like Sakiko Manaka she is a fan of Chihiro, but she feels an entitled ownership of her idol. The direct opposite of Sakiko’s mindset and actions.
I have a feeling that has the story continues there will be more about why Maaya is the way she is but the first instalment sets up the story for her to be redeemable or to be dangerous. I’m interested to see how which direction this takes.
Alongside Maaya’s influence on the story we have the sweetness of Sakiko and the budding friendship between Sakiko and Chihiro. There is definitely a lot of “nice” in My Idol Sits the Next Desk Over!, making it a pleasant read with a good balance of potential darker drama.
January 23, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC! I was a little bit shook at this manga. I am not the type of person to be a super fan of a celebrity or go to great lengths to get their merch or see their concerts or movies etc, so I couldn’t really relate to the characters of this manga. But holy moly these people are dedicated to their idol. Sakiko and Maaya, the two fans of the idol portray their love and adoration for Chihiro in different ways and honestly Maaya was quite terrifying. Maaya is obsessed beyond belief about Chihiro, but I have to commend her for how she just wants Chihiro to have a great school experience and be as successful as she can be as an idol. She’s terrifying though, and her methods are extremely inexcusable because she is basically a stalker and a bully. On a different note, I really enjoyed the photography aspect of this book and can’t wait to see what happens next with Sakiko as she learns more about photography. Sakiko was such a sweetheart and I want to continue reading this series just to see how everything turns out between the three of them.
3.5/5
3.5/5
January 18, 2022
This is such a fun first volume of this slice of life, school life needs idol manga! Sakiko is a huge fan of Chiro-chan, her favorite singer in the idol group she loves. Imagine her surprise when she ends up sitting next to none other than her idol! The group isn't super well-known yet, so most of their schoolmates don't know that Chihiro is a member of the idol group.
Sakiko doesn't have many friends (or... any friends...) so she's excited to potentially make new friends, but she was hoping to make a friend who was also a FAN of her favorite idol group - not one of the actual idols themself! She's so careful about her interactions, worrying about what is "normal" for a new friendship and what might be seen as obsessive stalker fan behavior. Add into the mix a stalker fan who is pretending not to know Chihiro's idol identity... What a ride! I love this coming of age, friends with an idol manga and can't wait for the next volume.
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
Sakiko doesn't have many friends (or... any friends...) so she's excited to potentially make new friends, but she was hoping to make a friend who was also a FAN of her favorite idol group - not one of the actual idols themself! She's so careful about her interactions, worrying about what is "normal" for a new friendship and what might be seen as obsessive stalker fan behavior. Add into the mix a stalker fan who is pretending not to know Chihiro's idol identity... What a ride! I love this coming of age, friends with an idol manga and can't wait for the next volume.
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
February 6, 2022
My thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
It sounded and looked cute from the title and the cover, but the character of Maaya ruined it for me. She is a stalker and while the MC knows this, she isn't telling the one being stalked about it. That's a HUGE privacy and safety violation and is a big fat NOPE from me. This was a DNF, so it might have gotten better, but I couldn't bring myself to finish it.
Yes, I know this is a manga and it's supposed to be OTT and that there are stalker fans like that out there, but this is not a healthy narrative to push. Only recommended to more mature readers who enjoy OTT storylines.
1, not my cup of tea but it might be yours, stars.
It sounded and looked cute from the title and the cover, but the character of Maaya ruined it for me. She is a stalker and while the MC knows this, she isn't telling the one being stalked about it. That's a HUGE privacy and safety violation and is a big fat NOPE from me. This was a DNF, so it might have gotten better, but I couldn't bring myself to finish it.
Yes, I know this is a manga and it's supposed to be OTT and that there are stalker fans like that out there, but this is not a healthy narrative to push. Only recommended to more mature readers who enjoy OTT storylines.
1, not my cup of tea but it might be yours, stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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