Review of Monkey High!, Vol. 5
When I first stumbled upon Monkey High!, Vol. 5 by Yukari Takinami, I was immediately charmed by the quirky premise and vibrant art style. As someone who has navigated the rollercoaster of high school, I found Haruna Aizawa’s journey through the cliques and chaos of school life relatable and amusing. Plus, the concept of likening school dynamics to a monkey mountain struck a chord with me—it’s a perfect metaphor for the unpredictable and often ridiculous nature of teenage interactions!
In this volume, Haruna and her class dive into the world of drama, putting on their own rendition of Romeo and Juliet. However, what makes this tale even more engaging are the underlying themes of anxiety, self-discovery, and the messy nature of teenage romance. Haruna’s trepidation about acting in front of the entire school—especially with her father potentially in the audience—captured that universal fear of vulnerability that most of us faced at that age. Here we see her struggle to balance her aspirations and fears, and it’s beautifully portrayed in Takinami’s expressive artwork.
One of the things I noticed about Takinami’s writing style is its lighthearted yet poignant nature. The pacing flows effortlessly, making it easy to flip through the pages in one sitting. Each character is thoughtfully developed; Haruna is an endearing protagonist, while Macharu Yamashita’s “baby monkey” charm brings a delightful dynamic to their budding relationship. Their interactions are filled with a sense of innocence and sincerity that brought back fond memories of my own youthful crushes.
A memorable moment for me was when Haruna mused, "Acting is like being a monkey on a stage—everyone’s watching, waiting for you to lose your grip," which resonated; it reflects our fears of judgment and failure. It’s these little nuggets of wisdom tucked within the humor that give the manga depth.
The illustrations are vibrant and lively, capturing the essence of high school life while adding a whimsical flair that makes each scene pop. The character designs also lend a fun aspect to the reading experience—who doesn’t love a cartoonish representation of teenage angst and joy?
This volume continued to receive rave reviews, boasting a solid 4.9 out of 5 stars! Readers have expressed their appreciation for the sincerity infused throughout the plot and the relatable situations. One reviewer mentioned, “This manga is an absolute classic and a joy to read!”—I couldn’t agree more!
In conclusion, Monkey High!, Vol. 5 is a delightful read that resonates with anyone who remembers the chaotic beauty of their teenage years. I would recommend it to young adults and anyone who loves light-hearted romances adorned with humor and heart. It’s a great pick for those moments when you need a comforting escape into the world of high school dramas, where every day feels like a new adventure, and love can blossom amidst the chaos. This volume left me feeling nostalgic and cheerful, a perfect reminder of the awkward yet magical stages of growing up.