Title: Paradise Kiss, Vol. 1
Author: Ai Yazawa
First published April 7, 2000
181 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781931514606 (ISBN10: 1931514607)
Rating: 4.13
Overview
All Yukari ever wanted was to fulfill her parents’ expectations and attend a prestigious university. But one fateful day, she is taken hostage by a group of fashion enthusiasts who call themselves “Paradise Kiss.” Suddenly thrown into the whirlwind lifestyle of the fashion industry, Yukari must rely on the guidance of the group’s leader, George, an elitist with an eye for art.
Through a series of transformative events, Yukari undergoes a glamorous metamorphosis, shedding her old self and becoming the group’s exclusive clothing model. Get ready to be swept away by a tale of self-discovery, fashion, and romance in Paradise Kiss, Vol.
1.
About the Author
Ai Yazawa is a notable manga author from Japan. She chose her pen name from Eikichi Yazawa, a Japanese singer whom she admires.
Yazawa began her career in manga publishing in 1985. For 15 years, she wrote more than ten series in Ribon magazine.
While most of her manga is still published in Japan by Shueisha, the publishers of Ribon and Cookie, some series like Paradise Kiss are now published in other magazines, such as Zipper by Shodensha.
Yazawa’s popular manga include Tenshi Nanka Ja Nai (I’m Not an Angel), Gokinjo Monogatari (Neighborhood Story), Paradise Kiss, and Nana. In 2003, she won the Shogakukan Manga Award for Nana.
Several of her manga series have been adapted into anime and live-action films.
Yazawa’s stories revolve around young women and their relationships, which resonate with her primarily female and young fan base. Her characters are always fashionable, reflecting her own interest in fashion.
Yazawa attended fashion school but did not finish her studies there. She is also known for her unique, sometimes rebellious characters, juxtaposed against more conventional ones.
In addition to her manga, Yazawa has published three artbooks. Her works, listed chronologically, include 15-nenme (1986), Love Letter (1987), Kaze ni Nare! (1988), Escape (1988), Ballad Made Soba ni Ite (1989, 2 volumes), Marine Blue no Kaze ni Dakarete (1990–1991, 4 volumes), Usubeni no Arashi (1992), Tenshi Nanka Ja Nai (1992–1995, 8 volumes), Gokinjo Monogatari (1995–1998, 7 volumes), Kagen no Tsuki (1998–1999, 3 volumes), Paradise Kiss (2000–2004, 5 volumes, published by Shodensha), Nana (2000–ongoing, 21 volumes – on hiatus), and Princess Ai (2004–2006, 3 volumes) (character designs only).
Editoral Review
Paradise Kiss, Vol. 1 by Ai Yazawa is a beautifully illustrated manga novel that explores the theme of identity through the lens of fashion.
Yazawa is known for her unique style of storytelling that centers around the deep emotions and complex relationships of her characters. This book, published on April 7, 2000, is no exception.
The novel centers around a high school student named Yukari who feels trapped by the expectations of her traditional family. When she meets the members of a fashion design group called Paradise Kiss, she is drawn into a world of self-expression and creativity.
As she begins to model their designs and develop relationships with the groups members, she discovers a new sense of identity. Yazawas writing is masterful in its ability to create a rich and immersive world filled with unforgettable characters.
Each member of Paradise Kiss is unique and complex, with their own struggles and motivations. The pacing of the story is steady, with just enough build-up to keep the reader engaged without overwhelming them with too much information.
One of the major strengths of the novel is its exploration of fashion as a means of self-expression. This theme is particularly relevant in todays society, where identity and individuality are valued more than ever before.
Yazawas writing captures the rebellious spirit of the fashion industry while also showcasing its beauty and artistry. The novels primary weakness, if any, is its use of stereotypes.
The character of George, the groups charismatic leader, is often portrayed as a stereotypical bad boy who is irresistible to women. However, this flaw is minor in comparison to the overall quality of the novel.
Overall, Paradise Kiss, Vol. 1 is a must-read for fans of manga and those interested in exploring the themes of identity and self-expression.
The stunning illustrations and masterful storytelling make it a joy to read from start to finish. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and thought-provoking book.
On a scale of 1 to 5, I would give Paradise Kiss, Vol. 1 a 4.5 for its incredible writing, unforgettable characters, and insightful exploration of fashion as a means of self-expression.
