A review by mssmartian
Blue Flag, Vol. 8 by Kaito

emotional hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

I really appreciate how sincere and sweetly the characters are portrayed. These are tough topics for kids, so I liked how
Taichi couldn’t parse out all of his feelings for Toma, but he knew he was too important in his life to let go.
 
While I really love the time skip and seeing everyone living their lives, it felt bittersweet in regards to development. It’s why my rating for the final novel is not a perfect 5.
The time skip was fun in that the readers are assuming it’s all through Taichi’s POV, but you quickly pick up that it’s Toma. The whole 8 novels take such care in addressing the characters thoughts, feelings, and working through them, so while I was so happy to see Taichi and Toma are together, I guess… I was sad we couldn’t see Taichi and Toma developing as young adults. 
But I completely understand that story would probably need a whole lil series on its own. So including it felt a bit rushed.
I’m happy- but left wanting.
……… and we didn’t even get to see adult Toma 🥹