Fruits Basket Volume 1: 09/07/09

Tohru Honda, the female protagonist of Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya has a lot in common with Hattie Brooks. Both are orphans and both have been shuttled between families. Where Hattie gets her chance to find a home by inheriting her uncle's claim, Tohru decides its time to set out on her own. She'd rather live in a tent on a damp hillside then "inconvenience" her grandfather any longer.

Just as Hattie finds a family in the Muellers, Tohru finds a family with the Sohmas. They have a secret to keep but concern for Tohru trumps it. They bring her into the family and she quickly learns that each of them is cursed to turn into an animal from the Chinese zodiac whenever one is hugged by a member of the opposite sex.

Like the old Ramna 1/2 anime, the curse gives many excuses for comedic situations. People are turning into animals left and right, and each one is cuter than the next. Despite the lighthearted gags, it's a good story full of drama and heartbreak.

I have the next eight issues that I will be working through as time permits.

Comments (2)

Comment #1: Wednesday, September, 9, 2009 at 05:26:31

Rhinoa

I have heard so many good things about this series but haven't gotten around to picking any up. Am looking forward to more of your reviews. It's not too late to add them into the Manga Challenge (you only need to read 6 in 2009) on my blog.

Comment #2: Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 19:42: 24

Pussreboots

Maybe next year if you run the challenge again. I've only read two mangas this year so far. I'm not sure I'll be reading another four by the end of the year.