Name: Gazing at the Star Next Door (Tonari no Stella)
Mangaka: Ammitsu
Volumes: 7 (Ongoing)
Licensed: Kodansha (Digital and Print)
Type: Manga
Genre: Comedy/Slice of Life
Age Group: Teen
Summary:
Chiaki is a pretty normal teenage girl. Since they were kids, she’s had a thing for her best friend Subaru. Who’s fast becoming the hottest young actor in Japan! With Subaru threatening to slip away, Chiaki has a decision to make: Will she finally take her shot, or give Subaru up to his adoring public?
–Manga Updates
Graphics Rating: 4/5
Plot Rating: 4/5
Opinion: I wouldn’t say this series is ground breaking. If you like the tropes related to childhood friends and a celebrity element it’s following the typical formula. That said this mangaka creates magical tension and longing that’s rare and wonderful.
The art is great but the artist draws the heroine very plain. It’s part of the plot but it stands out a bit (to me). The celebrity male lead looks amazing. The art is more realistic than sparkly if that makes sense? I love the look.
For plot like I mentioned it’s all been done before but it’s done REALLY well here. There is a magical and addictive quality to the story that pulls at your heart strings. I’m glad I’m collecting this series in print.
Final Rating: 4/5
Extra: n/a
