Reviews

Welcome to the fairyland! There is no actual fairy, but there are mushroom-sized people and anthropomorphic animals. I got the first four volumes before the lockdown for COVID-19 and I can’t wait to read more. There is a total of seven volumes and also animated versions are available on DVD, which I have already added to my wishlist for its superb quality of the artwork. Hakumei and Mikochi are the two characters who drive the storyline. They live together as friends and each episode is about their experience involving neighbors and villagers. The contrast in their personalities and their division of domestic labor keeps the story engaging and consistent. Mikochi loves taking care of others through her well-known cooking and creative garment-making. Hakumei is a skilled construction worker and a gallant protector of Mikochi. Her resistance to gender stereotypes makes her even more charming and a YouTuber even made a video of Hakumei’s best "Husbando" moments.

The place I got the most pleasure from was looking at the beautiful artwork in each panel. Characters are adorable with their tiny bodies, baby cheeks, and round bare feet. (I couldn’t figure out why they are bare. They don’t have toes, either.) On top of that, the description of surrounding objects, creatures, and environments is highly detailed. You can clearly visualize every corner of this world with a variety of tree leaves, fruits, vegetables, household items, store goods, etc. Reading these books was a slower process than reading other comic books because I couldn’t help but stare at the artwork in every panel. The covers in color print are the pinnacles of the beautiful artwork and they would be a great wall decoration in poster size.

There isn’t much to criticize. If I have to choose, it could be a lack of conflict and tension since the world in the story is generally friendly and peaceful. It is worthwhile though because of how much merriment and peace it delivers in each episode. To some readers, the panels might feel cramped. It is filled with details and does not leave much breathing room.

It is a great series to read while taking breaks from all the stress of life. Each episode is short enough to be read in 10 to 15 minutes. The storyline is engaging and character development is strong. You will end up attached to every character, even including the “villains.” (There is no true villain in this book. Even the villain-like characters are freaking adorable.) Oh, don’t miss the bonus. Each volume ends with translation notes. They provide more context to the Japanese culture and food, which could not be conveyed on certain pages. It definitely added more joy to my reading.

Review by Linda (she/they)
Twitter @KoreanLinda
Letter writer at DefinitelyNotOkay.com