Book Review: Monkey High!, Vol. 7 by Shinohara Keiko
As someone who’s always been fascinated with the messy yet meaningful intricacies of high school life, I was instantly drawn to "Monkey High!, Vol. 7." You don’t often come across stories that capture the wild dynamics of adolescence with such humor and heart. Shinohara Keiko has an enchanting way of weaving together the chaos of cliques, misunderstandings, and the all-consuming essence of young love—much like navigating a bustling monkey mountain!
In this volume, we find ourselves in the thick of a love story that can only be described as both relatable and chaotic. The protagonist, Haruna Aizawa, navigates the complexities of her new high school, where drama looms like a dark cloud, but so does the potential for romance. I found myself rooting for her relationship with Macharu Yamashita, who, adorable as he is, carries a playful, almost awkward vibe reminiscent of a baby monkey. The two characters truly embody the struggles of teenage love—logistical hurdles, the shadow of parental disapproval, and the pressures of academic life.
One of the standout themes of this volume is the pursuit of self-identity. Haruna grapples with fitting in while staying true to herself, and it feels especially poignant during those pivotal high school years. The dynamics of friendship and rivalry are portrayed with humor and sensitivity, leaving readers to reflect on their own experiences growing up. Notably, the overnight resort trip they win tickets for adds a layer of excitement and intimacy to their journey, creating that classic ‘will-they-won’t-they’ tension that kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Keiko’s writing style is effortlessly engaging—it’s like she’s sitting across from you, sharing stories about her friends with an infectious laugh. The pacing is spot on, with moments of introspection balanced against the backdrop of comedic mishaps. I appreciated how she managed to fuse lighthearted moments with the weight of reality without losing the story’s charm.
There were several moments that made me chuckle or sigh—Macharu’s clumsy antics, nuanced dialogues between characters, and heartfelt conversations that rang true. Whimsical dialogue such as Haruna giggling, “We’re like monkeys in a cage—crazy, yet searching for freedom!” really highlights the playful yet profound tone of the book.
I would recommend "Monkey High!, Vol. 7" to anyone who cherishes a good coming-of-age story infused with humor and romance. Whether you’re a high school student or someone looking to reminisce about those impactful years, this book has something for everyone. It resonated with me on a personal level; revisiting those tumultuous feelings of young love and the quest for identity is always a delightful escape.
In a world ever-changing, it’s comforting to know that amidst the challenges of growing up, the heartfelt moments of connection, laughter, and growth are timeless. So grab your copy and immerse yourself in the delightful chaos of "Monkey High!" You might just find that the journey through the monkey mountain feels a bit like our own.
You can find Monkey High!, Vol. 7 here >>