Butter!!! (original) (raw)

EXTREMELY cute, highly recommend.

Art: 8, a bit awkward compared to the author's newer stuff but has a lot of charm.
Character: 9, I love these kids so much
Story: 9, could only be improved by being twice as long
Enjoyment: 10

This mangaka is an incredible writer, and even though this is an old story that talent really shines here. The way the author uses ballroom dance parallel to the deeper narrative is really good, and super wholesome. One of the biggest examples is how partner dancing is used as a metaphor for improving interpersonal skills, as the characters improve their communication skills by applying what they learn... in their dance lessons. (It sounds corny when I say it, but it's executed Extremely well)

Some big themes of Butter are "Do what you want to do", "if it's fun, that's the only thing that matters" and just...not thinking too hard about things, pushing aside embarrassment and other hesitations, and just enjoying every moment as it is. Each character has inner obstacles to challenge and comes out more authentic, confident versions of themselves, and it's just...really good. It's such a feel good story, with drama, conflict, and friendship.