Book Review: Calling You (Kimi wa Shika Kikoenai) by Otsuichi
Title: Calling You (Kimi wa Shika Kikoenai)
Author: Otsuichi
Illustrator: Miyako Hasami
Translator: Agnes Yoshida
Published: Los Angeles: Tokyopop, 2007 (2001)
Rating: 4 of 5
Page Count: 183
Total Page Count: 120,584
Text Number: 351
Read Because: read and enjoyed "Calling You" and "Kiz/Kids" as manga, borrowed from the Multnomah County Library
Review: Three short stories united by a theme of supernatural communication and unique relationships. "Calling You", in which a girl invents an imaginary cellphone that one day rings, is the standout: its supernatural element is so unique and simple as to be strangely convincing, which sells the story despite its tendency towards drama. The relationship is deeply affecting, an enviable intimacy between normal, identifiable individuals; its bittersweet progression improves on reread, which is the sign of a good twist ending. "Kiz/Kids", in which a young boy has the ability to transfer injury from another's body onto his own, is unexpectedly morbid, thus contrasting and emphasizing the light—a persistent sense of beauty and hope—that suffuses the collection. Its supernatural elements are direct impetus to character interaction and growth, and the relationship at its heart is compelling. "Flower Song", in which a hospital resident discovers a singing flower with a human face, was the only story new to me (I read the others in manga incarnations). It has a twist ending which suits thematically, but is so large as to steal attention from the rest of the story and ultimately works to its detriment. Otherwise it's the collection's quietest and most metaphoric work, and it's good—but it's a comparative disappointment. The light novel is illustrated by Miyako Hasami, whose additions—while not particularly memorable—are an atmospheric fit. Otsuichi's voice is sparse but originates deep within each character, giving equal preference to action and emotion. As a bonus, Tokyopop's translation and imprint are surprisingly strong. I adore this collection: its theme shines while working to distinguish each story rather than make them blur together, and despite lapses in plot subtly each story has rewarding, affecting emotional complexity. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Review posted here on Amazon.com.
Author: Otsuichi
Illustrator: Miyako Hasami
Translator: Agnes Yoshida
Published: Los Angeles: Tokyopop, 2007 (2001)
Rating: 4 of 5
Page Count: 183
Total Page Count: 120,584
Text Number: 351
Read Because: read and enjoyed "Calling You" and "Kiz/Kids" as manga, borrowed from the Multnomah County Library
Review: Three short stories united by a theme of supernatural communication and unique relationships. "Calling You", in which a girl invents an imaginary cellphone that one day rings, is the standout: its supernatural element is so unique and simple as to be strangely convincing, which sells the story despite its tendency towards drama. The relationship is deeply affecting, an enviable intimacy between normal, identifiable individuals; its bittersweet progression improves on reread, which is the sign of a good twist ending. "Kiz/Kids", in which a young boy has the ability to transfer injury from another's body onto his own, is unexpectedly morbid, thus contrasting and emphasizing the light—a persistent sense of beauty and hope—that suffuses the collection. Its supernatural elements are direct impetus to character interaction and growth, and the relationship at its heart is compelling. "Flower Song", in which a hospital resident discovers a singing flower with a human face, was the only story new to me (I read the others in manga incarnations). It has a twist ending which suits thematically, but is so large as to steal attention from the rest of the story and ultimately works to its detriment. Otherwise it's the collection's quietest and most metaphoric work, and it's good—but it's a comparative disappointment. The light novel is illustrated by Miyako Hasami, whose additions—while not particularly memorable—are an atmospheric fit. Otsuichi's voice is sparse but originates deep within each character, giving equal preference to action and emotion. As a bonus, Tokyopop's translation and imprint are surprisingly strong. I adore this collection: its theme shines while working to distinguish each story rather than make them blur together, and despite lapses in plot subtly each story has rewarding, affecting emotional complexity. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Review posted here on Amazon.com.