Book Review: Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 11 by Bisco Hatori
As I settled down with Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 11, I was immediately swept back into the delightful chaos of the Ouran Academy. Bisco Hatori has a unique talent for weaving humor, heartfelt moments, and a little sprinkle of romance all into one beautifully illustrated volume. With several volumes behind me, returning to this world felt like reuniting with old friends—each hilariously unique, and yet somehow all too relatable.
This volume brings us into the thick of the Sports Festival, where the vibrant personalities of our beloved characters really shine. The plot introduces some amusing rivalries and features the hilariously awkward (not to mention somewhat devious) antics of Kyoya and the emotional introspection of Hikaru. The stark contrast between the light-hearted moments and the heavier themes woven throughout this volume resonated with me on a personal level. It reminds us that behind the laughter, life can be complex and layered.
Hikaru’s journey of self-reflection is particularly impactful in this volume. The way he navigates his feelings and relationships deepens not just his character but also strengthens the overarching theme of personal growth. Watching him grapple with understanding his own identity while still belonging to a set dynamic—which often leans towards the cliquish—struck a chord with me. I found myself nodding along, thinking about my own experiences navigating friendships.
But let’s not forget the sheer joy that Hatori infuses into her storytelling. The comedic moments are plentiful and brilliantly executed. I found myself chuckling at Kyoya’s antics during the hurdles race—a perfect showcase of his competitive spirit and clever mind. The scenes with Mori and the wild tanuki are nothing short of delightful, providing a much-needed light-hearted respite amidst the introspective elements.
The art style, as always, complements the narrative seamlessly. Hatori’s illustrations are alive with emotion, capturing everything from a shy smile to enthusiastic laughter. One of my favorite quotes—"Friendship is formed in laughter and tested in trials"—embodies the essence of this volume and left me with a warm feeling long after I turned the last page.
With an overall rating reflecting the sheer joy and profundity of this series (4.8 stars, thank you very much!), I can wholeheartedly invite anyone seeking light-hearted comedy with heart and depth to dive into Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 11. Fans of the series will find this volume particularly engaging, as it offers a delightful blend of familiar charm while pushing character development into intriguing new territories.
For those new to the series, while this volume stands on its own merits, I would recommend starting from the beginning. There’s something wonderfully enriching about watching these characters grow and evolve across the storyline. After closing this volume, I felt both lighter and more reflective—just the right balance of laughter and contemplation.
Bisco Hatori has crafted a piece that is more than just a simple read; it’s an experience. So grab your copy, find a cozy corner, and let the joys and challenges of the Host Club whisk you away into a world where friendship shines the brightest!