Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man
"Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man" is quite the ride! With its blend of action, adventure, comedy, and a healthy dose of gender-bending mecha sci-fi, it's easy to see why this novel has garnered so much attention. It certainly grabbed mine.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the high ratings and the unique premise of a female protagonist navigating a futuristic, male-dominated society while disguised as a man. The early chapters hooked me with the introduction of Ling Lan, a girl reborn into a world of mechas and interstellar wars, and the circumstances that forced her to adopt a male persona to secure her family's legacy.
What Works Well
The author excels at creating a compelling main character in Ling Lan. Her drive, even if initially motivated by a desire to have talented children, is captivating. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of battles, where the author's talent for depicting melee combat shines. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with varied personalities and motivations that add depth to the story. I found myself invested in Ling Lan's relationships with her overbearing mother, her ninja grandpa, and her quirky AI assistant, Little Four. The blend of sci-fi and cultivation elements is also intriguing, creating a unique world with mechas, hover cars, and spiritual power. The slow-burn romance, while not a central focus, adds a layer of complexity that I appreciated.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the novel, I did find some aspects less appealing. The heavy dose of Chinese nationalism can feel a bit much at times, particularly the portrayal of other nations. Also, the internal logic of the sci-fi elements can be shaky, with some technological aspects feeling underdeveloped or inconsistent. I also noticed that the plot moved at a slower pace than I would have preferred at times.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may find the slow pace frustrating, especially regarding the reveal of Ling Lan's true gender. While some readers were initially skeptical, they found themselves drawn into the story and appreciated the unique blend of genres. As of chapter 854, Ling Lan's father has returned, and she and her school buddies are in their twenties, having graduated and established their own team. Ling Lan is now in charge of a regiment, but she still hasn't revealed her true gender.
Final Verdict
Despite some flaws, "Crossing to the Future, it’s Not Easy to Be a Man" is an engaging and entertaining read. If you're looking for a novel with a strong female lead, unique world-building, and a blend of genres, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for some slow pacing and overt nationalism. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
