Wonderful Writers: Yuu Watase
Hi All! Wonderful Writers is a weekly segment that comes out every Wednesday! Every week I spotlight and discuss one of my favorite authors, books by them, and talk about their writing styles and such. I hope you’ll enjoy. Feel free to participate as well by writing your own post and as always you are welcome to use the meme/pic if you’d like (just remember to credit me).
About: Watase is a Japanese shōjo manga artist and writer. She she wrote her debut short story Pajama de Ojama (An Intrusion in Pajamas), Watase has created more than 80 compiled volumes of short stories and continuing series. Some of her most notable series include Absolute Boyfriend and Fushigi Yugi which have also been adapted into anime.
What I’ve Read (So Far):
- Fushigi Yûgi Genbu Kaiden Vol.1-9
- Ayashi no Ceres (Ceres, Celestial Legend) Vol. 1-3
- Imadoki! Vol 1-5 (The entire series)
- Zettai Kareshi (Absolute Boyfriend) Vol 1-6 (The entire series)
Why She’s a Wonderful Writer:
When I became exposed to the world of Japanese comics in middle school, Yuu Watase, was one of the first writers I came upon. I instantly fell in love with her interesting stories and incredible detail she presents in her artwork (which heavily reflects the genre of her stories).
Her stories have the perfect blend of fantasy and the real world. Most of the stories I’ve read by her so far take place in the 21st century Japan, but have lots of fantasy elements. Whether the heroine is traveling to another time or discovering she’s not just a high school student, but is actually a celestial maiden, Watas’se books are sure to keep you entertained.
I also enjoy reading about strong heroines, who courageously save the day, but are also not afraid to admit they need a helping hand in defeating evil. Her novels sometimes follow the typical shojou (manga) tropes, but she spices the story lines up so the story doesn’t get too predictable.
Overall my favorite manga by Watase will always be, Absolute Boyfriend, since it was the first story I ever read by her.
Do you read manga? Have you ever read any of Watase’s works? Comment below with your favorite series!
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I read manga a lot during middle school and I stopped for a bit and am now getting back into it again! Do you recommend I start with Absolute Boyfriend?
Yes I do, I’d also recommend “Ceres” if you like Fantasy & Romance, but the story is a bit darker than Absolute Boyfriend.
I love fantasy and romance so I’ll definitely check out those! =)