REVIEW: ‘Hirayasumi Vol 2’ Reminds Us Why Slice of Life Manga is King

Words and Art: Keigo Shinzo Publisher: Viz Translation: Jan Mitsuko Cash Touch-Up Art & Lettering: Elena Diaz Design: Jimmy Presler Editor: Holly Fisher As I mentioned in my review of the first volume of Hirayasumi, slice-of-life is one of my favorite genres when it comes to manga. Cracking up the first volume, I read about a 29-year-old, carefree Hiroto Ikuta “who doesn’t have a girlfriend, a full-time job, or a plan for the future—and he couldn’t be happier.” That introductory volume of the series delved into his life with a special inheritance, the reintroduction of a family member and transitions, and changes that enter his life and challenge his carefree way of living. Towards the end, a newer person is added to the cast that shakes Hiroto up something fierce and proves to be an intriguing character to watch on the page.

In the opening chapter, Yomogi, the female employee of the real estate agency in the neighborhood whom Hiroto had an unfortunate, embarrassing encounter with, ends up at his house. She’s there to carry out a minor repair and while not happy to see him, she’s thankfully professional enough to not let it affect her work. Hiroto’s best friend Hideki and his young cousin/roommate Natsumi figure that something’s up between the two and decide to silently observe, tickled that their normally offbeat and chill loved one is off centered due to this woman. As time passes and a cheerful celebration with food begins, the ever-anxious Yomogi bounces in front …