Crown of Love, Volume 1

March 1, 2010
Gr 9 Up-Hisayoshi "Kumi" Tajima is a 16-year-old student at Hakuo High, a prestigious arts school. Adored from afar by many girls, Kumi isn't interested in romance until he accidentally bumps into Rima Fujio, a teen idol. Unable to shake off thoughts of her, Kumi disobeys his father's wishes after being approached by Rima's former agent, Ikeshiba. Spurred on by his unrequited love for Rima, Kumi agrees to Ikeshiba's offer to become an idol. Rima dislikes much about being a star, but tells Kumi that she hates him for being a possible rivalboth as an idol and for the affection of her former agent. All of the characters except Kumi are shallow. Originally published in 1998 as a retelling of the author's work from the 1980s, the book has nothing to set it apart stylistically from series like Natsuki Takaya's "Fruits Basket" (Tokyopop) and other traditional manga titles. Still, manga readers won't care that the title breaks no new ground; they will just appreciate a new title in the genre."Suanne Roush, Osceola High School, Seminole, FL"

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