A review by chelsloukelly
Another by Yukito Ayatsuji

5.0

5/5: ‘Another’ is a Young Adult, Horror Light Novel by Yukito Ayatsuji and translated by Karen McGillicuddy; Koichi Sakakibara – a new transfer student to Yomiyama North Middle School – is placed into the cursed Class 3, where a chain of horrific deaths unfolds around him. Ayatsuji fleshes out the two main protagonists – Sakakibara and Misaki – exceptionally well. We feel scepticism, confusion and doubt on par with the characters; sympathising with them makes out reactions parallel, from witnessing the unbelievable to the depression of grief. There is a heavy trigger warning for Death, Murder, Suicide etcetera… please read with caution. Another is a slow-burning book, though it maintains an air of Mystery throughout and contained a subsequent amount of twists and gory scenes. The only criticism occurs in terms of the characterisation; the book has a wide and largely diverse cast. Remembering each is not necessarily easy if full attention is on the novel. Plus, several of the characters have similar names – Mikami, Mizuno, Misaki (as a First Name), Misaki (as the Last Name) – therefore, confusion may arise, though I did not struggle in this aspect. Ayatsuji is an exceptional writer of mystery; I would highly recommend Another to those who enjoy Mystery with an interest in Japanese Horror. All adaptations of the Novel, including the Anime and Manga, are just as perfect and I too, think indulging in both formats is necessary to gain real experience with the story – Perfect!