The Times of Botchan, Vol. 2 : Book Review

"The Times of Botchan Vol. 2" is the second volume in Jirō Taniguchi's manga series based on Natsume Sōseki's renowned Japanese novel, "Botchan." Set in early 20th-century Japan, this installment follows the journey of Botchan, a young graduate who takes on the role of a teacher in a rural town.

In this volume, Taniguchi delves deeper into Botchan's experiences as he encounters the challenges of teaching and interacts with his peculiar colleagues. With his intricate illustrations, Taniguchi masterfully captures the essence of the era, immersing readers in a vivid and detailed depiction of the story. The artwork not only complements the narrative but also provides readers with a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.

One notable aspect of this volume is Taniguchi's portrayal of the social and cultural landscape of pre-war Japan. Through Botchan's interactions with his students and fellow teachers, the author seamlessly integrates societal issues such as class divisions and traditional values into the storyline. This adds layers of depth to the narrative, enabling readers to gain insights into the attitudes and norms of the time period.

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, featuring a blend of humorous and contemplative moments. Taniguchi skillfully weaves together light-hearted and serious themes, creating an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. This approach also contributes to the overall character development, allowing readers to witness Botchan's growth as he faces various challenges and confronts his own biases.

In summary, "The Times of Botchan Vol. 2" continues Jirō Taniguchi's compelling adaptation of Natsume Sōseki's work. With its stunning artwork, rich historical context, and well-crafted storytelling, this manga offers an immersive and enjoyable reading experience for both fans of the original novel and newcomers to the series.

What are readers saying?

The second volume of "The Times of Botchan" by Jirō Taniguchi has received predominantly positive reviews from readers. Set in early 20th century Japan, this historical fiction novel follows the journey of Botchan, a young schoolteacher.

Readers were particularly impressed with the book's exquisite artwork and attention to detail in the illustrations. They praised how the images vividly captured the essence of the era, effectively bringing the story to life. Taniguchi's artwork was widely regarded as visually stunning and a genuine masterpiece.

The character development in the book was highly regarded by readers as well. Many found the protagonist, Botchan, relatable and well-crafted. Reviewers appreciated the depiction of his growth and transformation throughout the story, which made him a complex and intriguing character.

The book's historical authenticity also garnered praise from readers. Taniguchi's meticulous research of the time period allowed for an accurate portrayal of the social and cultural aspects of early 20th century Japan. The rich historical context was enjoyed by readers, as it added depth and realism to the narrative.

Several reviewers commended the pacing and storytelling of the novel, noting Taniguchi's simple yet engaging writing style. The narrative flowed smoothly, effortlessly capturing readers' attention and leaving them eager to discover what happens next.

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