book battle: boys run the riot v.1

boys run the riot vol. 1 by keito gaku

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ebook in exchange for an honest review! this has not affected my review in any way, all opinions are mine.

4.5/5 stars, rounded up where needed!

ryu is a closeted trans boy just trying to make it through the day when a new kid joins his class: jin. jin is outspoken, loud, and unabashedly different and himself—and seems like a total bully. when the two run into each other when shopping for the same style of clothes, ryu realizes there may be a way to express himself after all.

i really enjoyed reading this manga! i was immediately excited to see a trans protagonist, and one that was starting his own fashion line! the concept alone was just really exciting to me. i also appreciated how painful being closeted can be, and how angry it can sometimes make you feel.

i am really loving the development of ryu and jin’s friendship. i think it’s especially fun when their roles get swapped and jin has to hold back ryu. i really would love to read the second volume as soon as i can. reading this gave me a warm sense of comfort, because sometimes you really do just need some friends to support you. and also start a small business.