Description
"Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?" is a manga adaptation of the original story by Shunji Iwai, illustrated by Kyoichi Nanatsuki. The narrative centers on a group of middle school students in a small coastal town during summer. The story begins with a debate among the students about whether fireworks appear flat or round when viewed from different angles. This seemingly simple question becomes a recurring motif, symbolizing the characters' perspectives on life and relationships.

The protagonist, Norimichi Shimada, is a quiet and introspective boy who harbors feelings for his classmate, Nazuna Oikawa. Nazuna, who is dealing with her parents' impending divorce, plans to run away from home and invites Norimichi to join her. However, their plans are complicated by the presence of Yusuke Azumi, Norimichi's friend and rival, who also has feelings for Nazuna. The dynamics between the three characters are central to the story, exploring themes of young love, jealousy, and the desire for escape.

A pivotal moment occurs when Norimichi discovers a mysterious glowing orb, which grants him the ability to rewind time. This supernatural element allows him to revisit key moments and alter decisions, particularly those involving Nazuna. Through these time loops, Norimichi grapples with the consequences of his choices and the inevitability of certain outcomes. The narrative delves into the fragility of youth and the fleeting nature of summer, as the characters navigate their emotions and the uncertainty of their futures.

The manga captures the bittersweet essence of adolescence, blending everyday moments with a touch of magical realism. The coastal setting, with its festivals and fireworks, serves as a backdrop for the characters' introspection and growth. The story concludes with an open-ended resolution, leaving the characters' futures ambiguous but emphasizing the significance of their shared experiences. The interplay between the mundane and the extraordinary creates a poignant exploration of young love and the passage of time.
Information
Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?
打ち上げ花火、下から見るか?横から見るか?
Date: 06/17/2017
Categories
Genre
Romance
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Comment(s)
Staff
  • Story
    Hitoshi Ōne
  • Original Character Design
    Akio Watanabe
  • Cover Design
    Kabuto Tanigome
    Yuko Mucadeya
  • Translation
    Stephen Kohler
  • Original creator
  • Cover Art
    Akio Watanabe
  • Illustration
    DOMO
    Eichi