Engaging Review of Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 17
If you’re anything like me, the mere mention of Ouran High School Host Club conjures up a sly smile and nostalgic chuckle. This beloved series by Bisco Hatori has a magical ability to merge the absurdity of teenage life with the lavishness of the elite. Vol. 17 strikes a particularly poignant chord, as it delves deeper into the wealth disparities and emotional facades that bind its characters.
In this volume, the Host Club faces turmoil as Tamaki’s father and grandmother attempt to dismantle their beloved group. With Haruhi’s fate hanging in the balance, we are reminded of the extraordinary relationships that have blossomed amid the extravagant antics. This isn’t just a story about rich kids; it has soul, heart, and the chaotic beauty of friendship and loyalty. The absurdity heightens, especially when the group gears up for a quasi-military operation to save Tamaki from being whisked away to a life dictated by family expectation.
What I particularly love about Hatori’s writing is her blend of humor with emotional depth. The comic timing is impeccable; just when you think chaos couldn’t get any more outrageous, it surges ahead, with quirky dialogue and over-the-top antics that leave you laughing out loud. Each character shines brightly—Haruhi’s practicality, Tamaki’s flamboyance, and Kyoya’s calculated charm weave a rich tapestry of camaraderie and underlying tension.
One of the standout moments for me was during a tense encounter where Tamaki, in true form, comically misfires before rallying his friends for a grand gesture. The way Hatori captures his growth amidst the silliness illustrates that even in the most ludicrous moments, character development is paramount. The series isn’t afraid to grapple with deeper issues—class, belonging, and what it means to stay true to oneself—while still managing to keep the tone light and entertaining.
Haruhi, who steps into the Host Club as a "boy" due to her misfortune, continues to tug at my heartstrings. The contrast of her humble background with the opulent lives of her peers raises questions about societal norms and expectations. As I read, I found myself rooting for her, cheering on the unlikely champion of the Host Club who reminds us all that authenticity is the most valuable currency.
The pacing in this volume is spot on; the plot moves swiftly, but the character moments are given appropriate weight. As a reader, I found it impossible to put the book down—each page turned only heightened my curiosity about how the gang would navigate their latest crisis.
As a dedicated fan since the beginning, I can’t help but agree with the many readers who’ve sung its praises. If you’ve enjoyed the anime, diving into these later volumes opens up a treasure trove of character arcs and unresolved plots that the show simply couldn’t encapsulate.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 17 to anyone who appreciates a blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and an exploration of social dynamics. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this volume reinforces that laughter, loyalty, and love can conquer even the most absurd challenges. After closing the book, I couldn’t help but feel uplifted—a perfect reminder of why I fell in love with this series in the first place.
You can find Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 17 here >>