Thank you Kodansha for the ARC

I loved the anime for this series so much and to finally see it translated is fantastic! I was also pleasantly surprised to see that it was in full color so Aoi’s expressions were just that much more hilarious and adorable. I just love seeing how this story explores gender identity so much. Easily one of my favourite queer stories I have experienced thus far.

What a cute rom-com manga!

Makoto is a boy who likes cute feminine things and cross-dressing. While his classmates know this, they make fun of him and bully him for wearing a girl’s uniform, and he hides his true self from his mom, too. One day, a girl one grade below him, Aoi, asks Makoto out, but she thinks he’s a girl. Makoto rejects Aoi and tells her he’s a boy who likes to cross-dress, but that doesn’t deter Aoi. From then on, they strike up an odd friendship, along with Ryuji, Makoto’s childhood best friend who also has a crush on Makoto.

The art style was simple without much background drawings or details, but apparently this was originally a webtoon, so that’s probably where that comes from. It didn’t bother me though, because despite its simplicity, the subtle emotions still come through and the art is pretty charming and adorable, too. I loved all the main characters, and compared to how some other Japanese manga sometimes handle queer characters, this did it without making fun of Makoto and including nuance. Makoto still takes a lot of crap for presenting in a feminine way, but there are people who see past that and like him for who he is, and it’s heartwarming to watch Makoto slowly realize that, too.

Would love to read more volumes of this! Highly recommend!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you to Netgalley and Kodansha for the arc!!

How absolutely ADORABLE is this. I want to read it again right freaking now. Because it’s so darn cute!! I really like the idea of a boy who loves cute things and dressing like a girl but is reserved and doesn’t want anyone else around him to be bullied by talking to him. And the cute little eccentric girl who is head over heels for him. 💖 Plus we get a protective childhood friend?! Icing on the chocolate cake!

Love it. Will definitely read more!

"Senpai is an Otokonoko" immediately caught my attention with its intriguing premise and charming artwork. The story follows Saki, a bubbly and determined first-year high school student who is completely smitten by her cool and beautiful senpai, Makoto. Confident in her feelings, Saki wastes no time and bravely confesses her love. But things take an unexpected turn when Makoto gently rejects her, revealing that he’s actually a boy who enjoys dressing in traditionally feminine clothing - a self-described "otokonoko." Rather than giving up, Saki is undeterred by Makoto's confession and sets herself a new goal: to win Makoto’s heart, regardless of societal norms or appearances. Alongside them is Ryuji, Makoto’s childhood friend who plays the role of both protector and secret admirer, adding another layer of complexity to their budding friendship. What unfolds is a sweet, heartfelt, and sometimes bittersweet exploration of love, identity, and acceptance.

One of the things I appreciated most about this volume is how it delicately touches on themes of self-expression and the challenges that come with it. Makoto’s struggle to hide his fondness for cute things, especially from his parents who are unaware of his cross-dressing, adds a subtle sadness to the otherwise lighthearted story. It’s a reminder of how difficult it can be to stay true to oneself in the face of societal expectations.

The dynamics between the three characters are both entertaining and endearing, with each bringing their own emotional weight to the story. I especially loved Saki’s unwavering positivity and determination - she’s a refreshing character who radiates acceptance and open-mindedness.

Additionally, I want to highlight the thoughtful inclusion of word and phrase explanations at the end of the book. They provide helpful cultural context for readers who may not be familiar with Japanese terms, making the reading experience even richer and more accessible.

Overall, "Senpai is an Otokonoko" is a delightful start to what I expect will be a heartfelt and engaging series. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next volume to see how Makoto, Saki, and Ryuji’s relationships develop!

Thank you to Pom for crafting such a lovely story, and big thanks to NetGalley and Kodansha Comics for the opportunity to read this wonderful manga!

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for granting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

All these fruity kids, you love to see it.

First year, Aoi, has an overbearing crush on upperclassmen, Makoto, and is compelled to tell her. Makoto attempts to dissuade these overtures by revealing to Aoi that he is a boy and cross-dresses. Makoto turns down Aoi's offer to date since there is not a chance in hell that he would ever fall in love with her. This apparently does not matter to Aoi at all, and her crush only deepens.

#ThxNetGalley #Pom #SenpaiIsanOtokonoko

Thank you NetGalley and Kodansha Comics For the Arc!

This was such a cute and fluffy read! While there are darker elements such as struggles of crossdressing being accepted by others, the characters help explain that its ok as long as you yourself are comfortable! Also love the friendship dynamic between Aoi, Makoto and Ryuji!

This was beautifully illustrated and had a cute story. I will be checking more of this series and creator in the future. Thank you for the early copy!

I loved everything about this. The art is sweet and the story is lighthearted despite the potential of the themes turning dark. I love that the protagonist doesn't owe anyone any explanations and just does what he feels is right. I love that he has people who love him as he is. I'm looking forward to reading more.

Aoi has a crush, the cute girl Makoto but Makoto is hiding a secret- shes really a boy, however this doesn't deter Aoi, she likes him regardless!

I loved this sweet book where gender doesn't matter when it comes to love and Makoto's gender expression. Full of cute and funny moments as Aoi and Makoto try and navigate a budding friendship (and maybe something more???)