"Horimiya" is a popular Japanese manga series written by HERO and illustrated by Daisuke Hagiwara. It is an adaptation of HERO's original webcomic titled "Hori-san to Miyamura-kun." The manga was serialized in Monthly G Fantasy from October 2011 to March 2021 and has been compiled into 16 tankōbon volumes.
The story centers around the contrasting lives of two high school students, Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Hori appears to be a bright and popular student, but outside of school, she takes on household responsibilities due to her parents' busy schedules. Miyamura, on the other hand, is seen as a quiet and gloomy boy in school but has a completely different appearance and personality outside of it, sporting tattoos and piercings. The two discover each other's hidden sides and gradually form a close bond, leading to a romantic relationship.
Why You Should Read:
1. Relatable Characters
The characters in "Horimiya" are multi-dimensional and realistic. Hori and Miyamura, along with their friends, exhibit traits and face challenges that many readers can relate to, making their development and interactions engaging and heartfelt.
2. Unique Character Dynamics
The contrast between characters' public personas and their private lives is a central theme. Hori and Miyamura’s hidden sides and their growing relationship provide a fresh take on the high school romance genre.
3. Humor and Heart
"Horimiya" balances humor with emotional depth. The lighthearted, funny moments complement the more serious and touching scenes, creating a well-rounded narrative.
4. Strong Supporting Cast
Beyond the main duo, the supporting characters are well-developed and contribute significantly to the story. Their subplots and interactions add richness and variety to the manga.
5. Beautiful Art
Daisuke Hagiwara’s illustrations are clean and expressive, enhancing the storytelling. The art captures the characters' emotions and the overall atmosphere of the manga beautifully.
6. Themes of Acceptance and Growth
The series explores themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and the importance of understanding others. It shows how the characters grow individually and together, learning to accept themselves and each other’s flaws and strengths.
7. Engaging Romance
The romance between Hori and Miyamura is gradual and natural, avoiding many common clichés. Their relationship feels authentic and evolves through mutual support and understanding.
8. Complete Story
With the manga being completed, readers can enjoy the entire story arc from beginning to end without waiting for new chapters. This allows for a satisfying and complete reading experience.
9. Anime Adaptation
The anime adaptation of "Horimiya" brings the story to life with vibrant animation and voice acting. For fans of the manga, the anime offers another medium to enjoy the story and characters.