MANGA REVIEW: Flip Flip Slowly
Checking out a romance between a librarian and professor
Disclaimer: I requested this copy of Flip Flip Slowly on NetGalley, and Kodansha approved my request and sent me this complimentary digital copy. All thoughts are my own. This series is also rated Mature for adult audiences, it is not suitable for minors.
I am back reviewing one of my personal favorite categories of manga- the BL one shot! There’s nothing more satisfying than reading a great story that tugs at my heartstrings and then nicely wraps up in a single volume. If you also happen to also enjoy a short but complete story, then I have a recommendation for you which features a librarian and a professor. A BL featuring two avid book readers, let’s go!
Author: Mame Ohtako
Genre: BL, romance, drama
Age Rating: Mature 18+
Publisher: Kodansha
Status: Complete, one volume
Synopsis:
A professor in his mid-30’s leaves the city to return to the small rural town where he grew up in to take care of his ill father before he ultimately passes away. While the professor is in a familiar place that brings up some bad memories of his past, he finds solace in the town’s library where he meets a curious librarian in his 20’s and a friendship forms between the two men. The librarian begins to look forward to seeing the older man and has even learned some of the man’s habits- from his odd approach to picking out books by a single author, to what time of the day he usually stops by.
During one of his visits, the older man misses his bus and the young librarian offers him a ride which allows him to slowly uncover a different side to the mysterious professor. Will these two men allow one another to learn more about each other or will they put this relationship back on the bookshelf?
Favorite Things:
Pacing: The pace of this story is slow but in a nice way. It felt like the reader was also taking a relaxing car ride along the beach while spectating the two men.
The setting: I’m sure no one is surprised that I enjoyed the library setting in this story. It felt intimate but it also encouraged learning and exploration which is how the two men approached their relationship. It just made perfect sense!
The protagonists: Despite the 11 year age gap, the two men really complimented each other very well and I didn’t feel like there was a power imbalance. Another thing to note is that the younger man is in his 20’s, so he was a grown consenting adult in this story. The librarian was very mellow and introspective, so he truly was the perfect candidate for the older professor. Also since the librarian was younger in age and spirit, he was able to push the older man to not be as close minded and stubborn. I also did enjoy seeing the professor act like a mentor at times, and ultimately guide the librarian in a positive way.
Comforting: The plot of this story was predictable but in a very comforting way. It made me kick back, relax, and just enjoy this ride without overthinking about random drama or unnecessary characters.
The artwork: Mame Ohtako’s artwork was truly beautiful! The portraits, the landscapes, the close-up of objects, the hands- everything was beautifully illustrated. Unfortunately Mame Ohtako only has published two series but I’m hoping to see more, so I can admire their beautiful artwork.
Rating: ★★★★ / 5
I really enjoyed Flip Flip Slowly so much more than I thought I would. It was a lovely and relaxing one shot manga with great pacing, no unnecessary drama, and a nice resolution. I also enjoyed reading a story about two men who are both emotionally mature. It was a great read and one I can see myself rereading and recommending to my friends.
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