A review by timefliesaway
Spacewalking with You 1 by Inuhiko Doronoda

funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Very cute.

Usa, the main character is very autism-coded – no labels were used but he has many traits. Not in a bad way though, and not very stereotypical either. Either the mangaka is autistic themselves or they’ve done genuine research. I could relate to Usa a lot at least.

I love how the mangaka is providing helpful examples how autistic(-coded) people could easier navigate through life. And how one doesn’t need to be neurodivergent to do things a little differently or get oneself a Gedankenstütze, like writing notes down when starting a new job; as shown with Koba, the second main character. 

It’s also cool how the space theme isn’t just used as an “I feel like an alien in this world” metaphor/analogy, but that Usa is actually into astronomy and the two also join an astronomy club.

Very friendship-focused, and I love the healthy relationship of the guys. Quite feminist. (Could be considered CBDCT, perhaps?) Sets a well example for young boys – not only, though. Anyone can learn a thing or two from this.

It also has some funny bits.

Definitely looking forward to volume 2!

~

Thank you to Kodansha on Netgalley for an eARC.

-20.04.25