I’m in Love with the Gorilla Sitting Next to Me

I’m cursed with seeing members of the opposite s*x as animals, and I might just be falling in love with the “gorilla” sitting next to me. Muscular and burly, with coarse body hair and a rugged, chiseled face—literally too inhuman to be considered a romantic partner, yet her voice, gestures, and responses during conversation are all those of a cool girl. Day by day, I’m getting along with Gorilla-san(?) As we interact, I’ve come to realize that I’m indeed attracted to her… but I can’t seem to find the most crucial thing: a way to break the curse! Then one day, a “cat” wearing a boys’ school uniform—one of my senpais—appeared and said—— “I know how to break this curse.” This is the story of my mundane daily life with the gorilla, colored by a curse.

Original Publisher

dengeki bunko

Original Language

japanese

Type

Light Novel

## My Thoughts on I’m in Love with the Gorilla Sitting Next to Me "I’m in Love with the Gorilla Sitting Next to Me" is certainly a title that grabbed my attention, and after diving in, I can see why it's generating some buzz. The premise is undeniably unique, and the early chapters definitely deliver on the promised blend of comedy and romance. ### First Impressions My initial reaction was a mix of amusement and intrigue. The core concept – a protagonist who perceives all women as animals, and specifically falls for a "gorilla" – is certainly a fresh twist on the typical romance setup. I was immediately curious to see how the author would navigate such a peculiar premise and whether they could sustain the initial comedic charm throughout the story. ### What Works Well The humor is definitely a strong point. The protagonist's internal monologue and his reactions to the world around him are genuinely funny, and the absurdity of the situation is played to great effect. I also appreciate the focus on school life and slice-of-life elements. It helps ground the fantastical premise in a relatable setting, making the characters and their interactions feel more authentic. The "gorilla girl" is a compelling character, and I'm invested in seeing her relationship with the protagonist develop. ### Areas of Concern While the initial chapters are promising, I do share some concerns about the long-term viability of the premise. The author faces the challenge of keeping the "animalistic perception" plot device fresh and engaging as the story progresses. I'm wondering how significant character development can be achieved when the protagonist's view of women is so fundamentally skewed. Will there be a "cure" or a gradual shift in perception? The way the author handles this central element will be crucial in determining the overall success of the novel. ### Final Verdict Overall, "I’m in Love with the Gorilla Sitting Next to Me" has a lot of potential. The unique premise, strong comedic elements, and engaging characters make it a worthwhile read. However, the long-term success hinges on the author's ability to navigate the challenges inherent in the core concept and deliver a satisfying and meaningful romantic arc. I'm definitely intrigued enough to keep reading and see where the story goes.