Introduction

Crushes can be complicated, especially when there’s a significant age gap involved. In the manga series First Love Monster, we follow the story of fifteen-year-old Kaho Nikaidou, a girl who finds herself caught up in a rather unusual romance. Packed with comedy and questionable relationships, this series certainly stands out from the crowd. However, while it aims to entertain, it also leaves readers with a sense of discomfort.

A Troubled Protagonist

Kaho Nikaidou is the only daughter of wealthy parents who have showered her with affection and material possessions her entire life. As a result, she has struggled to maintain friendships, causing her immense social isolation and emotional distress. Determined to start anew, Kaho moves to Tokyo and ends up living in a boarding house, where she encounters a tall and attractive boy named Kanade.

A Shocking Revelation

Kaho quickly develops feelings for Kanade and is encouraged by her new housemate Chiaki to pursue a relationship with him. However, there’s one catch: Kanade reveals that he is an exceptionally tall fifth-grader. Suddenly, the romantic comedy takes a dark turn as the age gap and maturity differences between the characters come to the forefront.

Uncomfortable Humor and Disturbing Romance

Mangaka Akira Hiyoshimaru, known primarily for their work in the yaoi genre, aims to create a comedic storyline in First Love Monster. The stark visual contrast between Kaho’s petite frame and Kanade’s mature appearance adds an amusing element to the series. Nevertheless, the disturbing romance between the two is played seriously, with Kaho genuinely seeing herself as Kanade’s girlfriend. This emotional neediness and the characters’ acceptance of the relationship raise uncomfortable questions.

Emotional Trauma and its Consequences

Kaho’s emotional trauma and her desperate search for genuine affection offer some insight into her unhealthy connection with Kanade. While this might be a realistic portrayal of the effects of emotional turmoil, it detracts from the comedic potential of the story. The repetition of the same age-gap joke fails to overshadow the unsettling undertones of their relationship.

The Supporting Cast’s Impact

The portrayal of the supporting characters further complicates the narrative. Chiaki’s encouragement of the relationship and the other tenants’ knowledge of its impropriety suggest that they are aware of its negative aspects. Kouta, a boy who harbors feelings for Kaho, is too timid to intervene. The mean-spirited behavior of some characters, especially one housemate who attempts to force himself on Kaho, adds unnecessary darkness to the plot.

Artistic Flaws and English Adaptation

On the positive side, the English adaptation by Yen Press effectively emphasizes the contrast between Kanade’s childish speech and his more mature actions and statements. Additionally, each character is distinctly portrayed, giving them unique personalities. However, the artwork by Hiyoshimaru suffers from occasional issues with anatomy, and the sizes of characters’ faces seem inconsistent throughout the series.

In conclusion, First Love Monster attempts to blend comedy and romance in a unique way but falls short due to its uncomfortable subject matter and damaged protagonist. While the age gap trope has been explored successfully in other stories, this particular series fails to strike the right balance and deliver the desired humor.