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I first became aware of "My Oh My, Atami-Kun" when Yen Press announced it. The description and some initial feedback suggested that it would be exactly the kind of story that fits my reading taste. The magazine it’s published in Japan also played a role in my decision, as many of the manga I like either appear or have appeared there.
In Japan, the series has been running under the original title “Iyahaya Atami-kun” since April 2022 in the seinen magazine *Harta*, which is known for titles like “Delicious in Dungeon.” So, how was it?
How was it?
“My Oh My, Atami-Kun” is a refreshing and unconventional manga that skillfully distances itself from typical Boys’ Love clichés, offering instead a sensitive and humorous portrayal of adolescent relationships. The protagonist, Atami, is an attractive but reserved high school student who attracts the attention of many girls at his school. However, Atami is homosexual and doesn’t seek fulfillment in the arms of his many admirers but rather in quiet crushes on boys. This premise could easily lead to a typical BL scenario, where romantic entanglements and emotional drama take center stage. However, the manga takes a different approach: it presents Atami as a young man who is aware of his sexuality but is still in the process of understanding his own desires and needs.
What makes this manga special is how it depicts Atami’s everyday experiences. His crushes, whether on an older classmate, a flower shop worker, or a shy classmate, are not immediately aimed at forming a romantic relationship. Instead, they show the fleeting nature of teenage infatuations, which are often more about a desire for closeness and understanding than an actual pursuit of a relationship. Atami enjoys indulging in these crushes without necessarily feeling the need to turn them into a committed relationship. This gives the manga a rare authenticity, capturing the realistic uncertainties and often chaotic nature of adolescent feelings.
Another central element of the manga is the friendship between Atami and Adachi, an older student who is Atami’s first serious crush. After gently turning Atami down, Adachi and Atami develop a deep friendship based on trust and understanding. Adachi becomes Atami’s confidant, supporting him through his emotional ups and downs. This portrayal of a platonic friendship between two young men, where one’s sexuality is not an obstacle, is rare in BL literature and sets “My Oh My, Atami-Kun” apart from other works in the genre. Asa Tanuma’s storytelling is characterized by a calm, introspective tone, which is complemented by minimalist yet expressive artwork. The drawings are simple but effective, capturing the subtle emotions and inner turmoil of the characters perfectly. Especially noteworthy is the portrayal of Atami’s inner conflict: he’s a teenager trying to navigate a world that often demands simple answers to complex questions.
Another interesting aspect of the manga is its treatment of homosexuality. Rather than focusing on typical conflicts like homophobia or the struggle with coming out, Atami’s sexuality is portrayed as a self-evident fact, which is accepted by his environment without much fuss. This gives the manga a pleasant lightness and an optimistic view of the life of a young gay man.
Ultimately, “My Oh My, Atami-Kun” is a quiet but powerful coming-of-age story about the uncertainties and joys of youth. The manga invites readers to step into Atami’s world and experience the highs and lows of his emotions. It’s a story that convinces through its authenticity and careful, understated storytelling, eschewing dramatic effects. Instead, it touches the reader with its honesty and warm portrayal of human relationships.
The title is being published by Yen Press in a large format.
Is it worth reading?
"My Oh My, Atami-Kun" is not a manga for those looking for intense love stories or fast-paced plots. Rather, it’s aimed at readers who appreciate the quiet, reflective moments of life. Asa Tanuma succeeds in creating a narrative that appeals to both fans of the BL genre and those who simply enjoy a good coming-of-age story.
It’s a manga that lingers in the mind long after reading, thanks to its subtle tones, reflective moments, and realistic depiction of youth and friendship.
My Oh My, Atami-Kun, Vol. 1 GN
€16,50
High schooler Atami is living the dream. He's got incredibly good looks, and girls can't help asking him out nearly every day. There's just one problem, though-he's into guys, not girls! Even his gorgeous face haunts him, since it's all… read more
