While Volume 4 of Kininatteru Hito Ga Otoko Janakatta, Volume 4 (気になってる人が男じゃなかった) was one of the most-anticipated manga to arrive in my house, it’s also something that both my wife and I are following online, so we are more or less tuning in, rather than seeing it “finally.”

Volume 4 finishes the “prom” arc, in which Mitsuki and Aya finally give up any pretense of “maybe.” If you haven’t been following along on any of Arai-sensei’s social feeds, then all I want to say about this is…it’s a good kiss. ^_^

And then the story turns towards life after high school with short, but critical time slip after graduation. Again, if you haven’t been keeping up, you’ll get to see a much more masc-presenting Mitsuki who is working on her music with a band, and Aya who has committed to a career in translation. Joe makes a huge decision for himself, as well. 

In many ways the second half of this volume is a wholly new story, about two young adults building their new adult lives and their relationship. Old friends are still part of those lives, but new people are joining the cast as well. 

I’m going to re-read this volume at least once more in Japanese and will be looking forward to it when Yen puts it out in English. There’s no release date at time of writing, but I’m hoping for it in early summer. 

Ratings:

Art – 8
Story – 9
Characters  – 9
Service – There’s a valid argument about the prom outfits as service. But as for salaciousness, 0
Yuri – 10

Overall – 9