Love Com, Vol. 9: Volume 9

by Aya Nakahara

The Long and the Short of First Love

Risa Koizumi is the tallest girl in class, and the last thing she wants is the humiliation of standing next to Atsushi ?tani, the shortest guy. Fate and the whole school have other ideas, and the two find themselves cast as the unwilling stars of a bizarre romantic comedy duo.

Risa's life should be perfect. After all, she's finally dating the guy she loves. But ?tani's never actually said that...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1421517426
• ISBN13: 9781421517421
• Release Date: November 2008
• Publisher: Viz Media
• Length: 216 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.0" x 7.4"
• Age Range: 14 to 17 years
• Grade Range: Grades 9 to 12

Customer Reviews

A Stand-Out Volume

If you're reading this review, you've probably read and liked at least a few of the current volumes of "Love Com." The series has been great up to this point, and the high standard continues in volume 9. In the beginning of volume 9, everyone is getting ready for the school culture festival. But Risa can't enjoy the festivities; she's too upset because Ootani doesn't seem to care about her. They may be going out, but he still insults her like he's always done. Risa wants a little more from him, but Ootani doesn't seem to be getting the message. She starts to wonder why they're even dating in the first place, if they only act like friends. Some might find this portion of the manga a bit boring because there's little plot, but I thought the conflict here was realistic and touching. Risa's feelings are easy to relate to, and conclusion she comes to shows a lot of maturity. Ootani also has a sweet moment. Here more than ever, it's clear that the relationship between Ootani and Risa is based in something much more substantial than the usual fluff. The next part of the manga focuses on the characters' post high school plans. Risa hasn't thought much about her future, and she's starting to feel left behind by her friends, who are already starting to prepare. Ootani wants to go to college, but Risa's not so sure he can do it. And even if he can do it, does she really want him to go to college? After all, he'll be meeting new people, and he might leave her behind. I thought that this part, too, was very realistic and easy to relate to. Most of the audience is facing a similar dilemma, or will be very soon, and they'll really feel for Risa. Once again, I also appreciate the fact that Nakahara spares us the melodrama in favor of a more humorous approach. Overall, this volume didn't have a lot of action, but it described situations and emotions very relevent to the reader. It's a good build up to volume 10, but it's just as good as the upcoming volume.