Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Want to Be Friends With You
I Want to Be Friends With You promised a heartwarming journey, and while it delivered on some fronts, it stumbled a bit in others. Overall, I found it to be an enjoyable, albeit imperfect, read.
First Impressions
The initial chapters really pulled me in. The story focuses on a young, traumatized girl and a surprisingly mature young boy who helps her heal. I was immediately invested in their friendship and the slow, careful process of her coming out of her shell. The early parts of the novel are undeniably cute and emotional, and I found myself smiling quite a bit as I read about their interactions.
What Works Well
The strength of this novel lies in its exploration of healing and the development of positive relationships. I particularly appreciated the portrayal of the main character's growth, witnessing her transformation from a withdrawn child to a more confident and happy young woman. The side characters are also well-developed, adding depth and humor to the story. Many readers have praised the supportive parents and the overall positive atmosphere, which I definitely agree with. The author did a good job of creating a world where kindness and understanding play a central role.
Areas of Concern
While the beginning was strong, the time skip significantly impacted my enjoyment. The story jumps ahead several years, and I felt the transition was rushed. I wanted to see more of what happened to the male lead during those years and how his experiences shaped him. The romance, while present, felt underdeveloped, and the ending left me wanting more. It felt like the author was in a hurry to wrap things up, leaving several plot threads unresolved. Additionally, some of the plot points felt glossed over, particularly the psychological impact of the male lead's accelerated growth.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers and I were a bit taken aback by the female lead's mother's sudden decision to pursue a divorce. It seemed to come out of nowhere and felt inconsistent with her established character. Also, while the novel touches on the male lead's loss of childhood, it doesn't delve deeply into the emotional consequences, which I thought was a missed opportunity.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, I Want to Be Friends With You is a worthwhile read, especially if you're looking for a sweet and heartwarming story with a focus on healing and character growth. Just be aware that the pacing can be uneven, and the ending might leave you wanting more. I'd recommend going in with moderate expectations and simply enjoying the journey of these characters as they navigate life and friendship. I'd give it a solid 3.75 out of 5 stars.
