I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
Series: The Lines that Define Me #1 Published by Kodansha Comics on January 18, 2022
Demographic: Shōnen
Genres: Drama, Slice of Life
Source: NetGalley
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Sosuke Aoyama is a college student adrift on his own . . . until a chance meeting with suibokuga artist Kozan Shinoda brings him into the world of India-ink painting. But though he finds connection with the art and Shinoda himself, there's more to both the art world and Shinoda's family than Sosuke realizes . . .
Let’s face it, India-ink painting is not something we read about often—which is too bad—so doesn’t this look like the perfect chance to expand some knowledge on the topic? Something that could very well be more fascinating than you might anticipate!
The Lines that Define Me takes you to a wonderful journey where the characters don’t simply draw, but self-explore themselves through art. We can perceive their personality emerging from their ink paintings thanks to Sosuke’s views, so vivid and well explained that, in the end, it’s like looking at his clear vision more than the painting itself. Which is exactly what we are supposed to see since he gets both meanings and personalities behind each piece in such a perfect way. The strong and unexpected connection Sosuke finds with this art not only opens a new world to him, but it also opens the reader’s mind over quite an interesting subject. Also, the art style is so beautiful that sometimes simply staring at it can’t be helped. I’m in love!
A manga that most definitely catches your attention from the very first brush panel! Whether you are into arts or not, I would recommend you to read it, your curiosity will be sparked and your heart will be overwhelmed with lots of emotions. And the journey has just begun . . .
About Silvia
Through her creativity and blogging, Silvia has met people from different industries and collaborated with them on various projects over the years. Her strong passion for reading and her fascination for different cultures and languages have led her to develop a keen interest in the East-Asian continent. Off to see her? Follow the colourful book road . . . ♡
This sounds like a really beautiful manga! 😍
It really is, Stephanie, and I can’t wait to read the other volumes!! 😍
I love art that captivates like that! This sounds amazing Silvia 🙂
I’d say this manga is truly a beautiful piece of art 😉
I’m a big fan of art so I think this sounds fascinating! Thanks for introducing it to me:-)
Honestly, it was even better than I expected! I definitely recommend it, your love for art will be rewarded, Tammy ❤️
Eventhough I don’t have creative bone in me (hahaha), I really enjoy these kind of stories. Now I’m really curious. Thanks for another recommendation Silvia <3
I do believe you could like this one, Vanessa, and you’ll also be pleased to hear that as far as I know this is a short series of 4 volumes in total 😊
I’ve never heard of India Ink painting — this sounds like an intriguing concept, especially the concept of self-exploration through art — and everything else you described in the your review. You do have knack for picking interesting mangas!
I’m glad you think so, Verushka, because I could go on and on recommending interesting manga! 😉