When Shoji Mashita spots his classmate Motoki Matsushima lovingly caressing his (Mashita’s) desk, he abruptly realizes that Matsuhima has feelings for him. He narrates that he’s okay with this, since he respects Matsushima as a friend, but he can’t resist tormenting him since his reactions are so violent. Eventually, Mashita realizes that he has feelings for Matsushima, too, … [Read more...] about La Satanica by Momoko Tenzen: B+
Momoko Tenzen
Ciao Ciao Bambino by Momoko Tenzen: B
I think I must be a Momoko Tenzen fan, because this is the second time I’ve been impressed by her ability to create compelling characters in a short story format (the first being Unsophisticated and Rude). Not only that, she’s able to write stories about romance between middle schoolers and teachers that aren’t completely icky (only mildly icky). There are five stories in this … [Read more...] about Ciao Ciao Bambino by Momoko Tenzen: B
Unsophisticated and Rude by Momoko Tenzen: B+
Unsophisticated and Rude is a collection of five boys’ love tales from Momoko Tenzen. Unlike most compilations in this format, all of the stories are enjoyable and demonstrate an impressive ability to establish unique and compelling characters within a limited number of pages. The first two stories—“Unsophisticated and Rude” and “Pretender”—are the best, offering additional … [Read more...] about Unsophisticated and Rude by Momoko Tenzen: B+