Kanade, a girl gifted with an observing eye and an ability to get things done. This is the story about her journey discovering the beauty of classical ballet and the joy of dancing. From the popular author that brought us Vanitas, comes a romantic story that makes the beauty of classical ballet come alive.

This comic book introduces an intriguing premise but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book tries to blend drama and artistry but struggles with character development and narrative cohesion, leading to a somewhat unsatisfying experience.

The story in this comic book centers on a protagonist who is drawn into the world of ballet. While the setting provides ample opportunity for exploring themes of passion, discipline, and ambition, the narrative lacks depth and clarity. The plot feels disjointed, with scenes that jump abruptly, making it difficult for me personally to engage fully with the storyline or the characters’ motivations.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with the protagonist and supporting cast lacking sufficient depth and relatability. The central character’s journey into the world of ballet is portrayed without much context or emotional resonance, making it challenging for me personally again to connect with their struggles and aspirations. The interactions between characters feel superficial, failing to convey the depth of relationships and personal conflicts that could have enriched the narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the grace and elegance of ballet, with expressive character designs and dynamic compositions. However, the visuals alone aren’t enough to elevate the story, as the lack of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either linger without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the narrative from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of exploring the world of ballet holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the rich tapestry of the ballet world and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5