We started this year's reviews with a long-awaited license, so it's only fitting to end it with one as well. As much as I might complain about how much Viz neglects their non-WSJ titles or the titles they pick up for the Shojo Beat imprint, they did release this classic from Nana and Paradise Kiss creator Ai Yazawa just in time for the holidays.
NEIGHBORHOOD STORY (Gokinjo Monogatari), by Ai Yazawa. First published in 1995 and first published in North America in 2023.
PLOT:
Mikako and Tsutomu have known each other forever. They grew up together, go to the same art college, and even walk to class together. Tsutomu's resemblance to a popular singer has rendered him unexpectedly popular with the ladies, much to Mikako's annoyance and Tsutomu's bafflement. Neither of them are quite ready to admit they might have feelings for one another, but their friends will certainly try their best to bring them together. Mikako's going to need all the help she can get to complete with her glamorous classmate Mariko.
