This is a very special review for me not only because Orange is such a wonderful, unique, manga but also because it is one of my best friend’s absolute favorites. Another thing that makes Orange unique is that it can be classified as a shoujo and a seinen manga. This is because it was serialized in Bessatsu Margaret as well as Monthly Action. Please be advised that due to the unique plot device that I describe below, it’s not quite possible to provide a spoiler-free review. Now, on to the review!
Right away, Orange introduces an interesting time travel element as the protagonist, Naho, receives a letter from her 26-year-old future self, which sets the story in motion. At present, she is a 16-year-old high school student. Her future self tells her of the arrival of the transfer student, Kakeru. Naho and her friends Suwa, Azusa, Takano, and Hagita instantly make him a part of the group.
For reasons unknown to present Naho, her future self, tells her not to invite Kakeru to chill the first day they meet. She disregards this warning. Which is a decision she will come to regret. By the end of chapter one, two weeks into the story’s timeline it is revealed through future Naho that her biggest regret is that Kakeru has died in her timeline. This is no ordinary high school romance, my friends.
The remainder of Volume 1 goes back and forth between Future Naho and Present Naho. it is because of these glimpses of the future that the reader comes to better understand what Naho’s regrets are. Regrets regarding not just Kakeru but her life in general. It seems like everyone in the future group of friends has regrets when it comes to Kakeru.
Future Naho even advises the present Naho to have Kakeru join the soccer club. So that Kakeru will have one less regret. Kakeru does, in fact, join the club, but it is at Suwa’s urging. Suwa is a member of the Soccer club, after all. Nacho also asks Kakeru not to date a senpai, which leads to some miscommunication and angst because of Naho’s timid nature.
With Suwa’s help, Naho decides to be brave, follow the advice of future Naho, and bring herself one step closer to Kakeru, who she is starting to have feelings for. The future is not so set in stone for this group of friends. Naho has declared that she will save Kakeru no matter what it takes. Here’s to hoping for changes that lead to fewer regrets!
