Third read (2024): 

I believe this had become my « comfort manga », The thing I go back to reading whenever I’m in the mood for a re-read. Using the word “comfort” is ironic because I was actually feeling quite stressed knowing the ending so I didn’t want to read because I still rooted for the characters. One in particular that I had forgotten but grew to love this time around is Kanae. I wanted to protect her at all costs 🥺 the best for her! 
This time around the Reading I felt the beauty of the language/translation in the letters, and the depth of the emotions expressed. It felt so real, and so raw- not because I related to the characters now, but because it was such a good dissection of the human condition and the way relationships affect people in the course of their lives. 
Someone on Booktube compared this to Normal People by Sally Rooney, and I can say I see the similarities in subject matter and how it is addressed, but I don’t think both works would appeal to the same crowd. But I liked both in different ways. 
 I read this on Valentine’s Day, just for the vibes. And honestly it was perfect for the occasion poured into my newly found understanding of relationships and love. 

P.s.s: Also did not watch the movie yet. It’s been a decade!!😆 


Second read 2018: (5 stars)

The ending did not bother me as much as it did the first time I read it, because I knew what was coming, so I enjoyed it.
Also, this time around I felt more connected to the characters, and they were even more relatable- I'm sure that at different times of my life I was most of those characters and felt exactly like them - so for me, it hit close to home. I may or may not have teared up in some parts.
The art of course is impeccable, so I'm not even gonna comment on that.

p.s: Remember how 4 years ago I was excited to watch the movie adaptation? Well I never did, and to spare myself the consistent heartache (reading this manga twice), I don't think I will.

First read 2014: (4 stars)
The ending got me in this "WHHY NO WHYYY?! What why?" Emotion, I usually don't like cheesy expected endings, but not like this I really wanted them to "live happily ever after" cuz I just couldn't imagine either of them happy with anyone else.

I uttered a "i feel you" whenever takaki expressed his feeling, and Cold and secretive as he is, I am too.
I could relate to Kanae too in a lot of things.

I liked how this book talks about the serious sides of life, and how it is not just a corny love story, so I actually liked it, and I didn't even put it down, I read it in one setting.

Can't wait to watch the movie!