Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I’m Back in the First Grade of Elementary School, so I’m Going to Live Well
"I’m Back in the First Grade of Elementary School, so I’m Going to Live Well" presents an interesting premise: an adult reliving their elementary school days with the wisdom of their past. The early chapters definitely hooked me with the protagonist's relatable struggles. However, as the story progresses, some aspects felt a bit… off.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the slice-of-life elements and the MC's attempts to navigate social situations with his adult mind in a child's body. The author does a good job portraying the mind of someone with social anxiety, and I found myself rooting for him as he tried to improve his life. The focus on steady improvement, almost like an RPG character leveling up, was a unique and engaging approach.
What Works Well
The early focus on the MC's internal struggles and his interactions with his family felt genuine. I appreciated the attention to detail in portraying his awkwardness and his desire to overcome it. Many readers seem to agree that the initial chapters are the strongest, setting up a compelling foundation for the story.
Areas of Concern
However, the introduction of the "yandere" character raised some red flags for me. While some might find it amusing, the idea of a first-grader exhibiting such intense and possessive behavior felt a bit unsettling and, frankly, unbelievable. It felt like a jarring shift in tone and threatened to derail the MC's personal growth. This plot point, for me, overshadows the other aspects of the story. Also, the portrayal of other female characters, like the MC's sister, felt exaggerated and unrealistic.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers pointed out that the yandere's behavior escalates quickly, with her stalking the MC and planning their future married life within a short time frame. This rapid escalation felt out of place for characters of that age and detracted from the overall enjoyment of the story.
Final Verdict
Overall, "I’m Back in the First Grade of Elementary School, so I’m Going to Live Well" has a promising start with a relatable protagonist and interesting premise. However, the introduction of certain plot elements, particularly the aggressive "yandere" character, raises concerns about the story's direction and believability. While the initial chapters are enjoyable, the later developments might not appeal to all readers. I'd recommend approaching this novel with caution and being prepared for a potentially bizarre and uncomfortable reading experience.
