Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Try Showing Your Attitude Again?
"Try Showing Your Attitude Again?" initially hooked me with its premise of clashing high school delinquents. But what I discovered was a story far richer than your typical school-life romance. It's a journey of two young men, Zhai Yao and Shen Heng, finding solace and strength in each other amidst complex family dramas and personal struggles.
First Impressions
The initial antagonistic relationship between the two leads is definitely a draw. Seeing them literally throwing punches before fate (or perhaps cleverly written plot devices) brings them together is an entertaining start. It's a classic setup, but the novel quickly transcends these tropes.
What Works Well
The character development is phenomenal. Both Zhai Yao and Shen Heng are beautifully fleshed out, with their own individual burdens and vulnerabilities. Zhai Yao's tsundere nature, his difficulty expressing affection, and his underlying fear of being a burden resonated deeply with me. Shen Heng's direct communication style and unwavering support were equally endearing.
I particularly loved how the story delves into the complexities of family relationships. It explores both the unconditional love and the heavy responsibilities that families can bring. The side characters are also well-developed and feel incredibly "alive." Zhai Yao's sister, for example, is a flawed and frustrating character, yet her moments of genuine affection make her feel incredibly human.
The romance feels natural and earned. It's not just about two people falling in love; it's about them becoming each other's anchors in a turbulent sea. The novel excels at portraying their mutual empathy and the way they support each other through life's challenges.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, brace yourselves, because I need to talk about some of the heavier plot points.
The struggles faced by both leads are intense. Zhai Yao's family crisis and the subsequent emotional turmoil were heart-wrenching. Shen Heng's internal battles and the weight of his past also added significant depth to his character. The scene where he shreds tears when they... well, let's just say it hit me hard too! And Zhai Bing's diagnosis with Lymphoma? Absolutely devastating, especially given her character arc and the progress she was making.
Final Verdict
"Try Showing Your Attitude Again?" is more than just a high school romance; it's a coming-of-age story that explores themes of family, love, and personal growth. It's a heartwarming and healing novel that will leave you feeling emotionally invested in the characters' journeys. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a story with depth, realism, and a touch of angst. Just be prepared to shed a few tears along the way.