This is a very delightful and light coming-of-age series about a young girl, Kuronuma Sawako, who is given the nickname “Sadako” because her appearance resembles the creepy ghost girl from “The Ring.” Her hair is long and straight, and rather unflattering to go with a pale and unassuming complexion. She’s a very shy girl who speaks in a soft voice and doesn’t speak ill of anyone, even those who are put off by her.

While Sawako lacks confidence in herself, she’s actually not afraid to pursue and do things, which is one of the things that I found very appealing as well as refreshing about her character. Too often, the shy girl is also a doormat who has to be poked and prodded into doing literally everything. Sawako isn’t that way. She volunteers for jobs, and she actually has no problem interacting with people who interact with her.

It is clear from the start that Sawako only has eyes for Kazehaya Shota, the most popular boy in the school. Kazehaya isn’t put off by Sawako’s shy demeanor, and it’s clear that he endeavors to treat everyone—whether they are popular or not—the same. He’s not conceited or uptight. He has a charming smile and disposition that makes it easy to understand why he’s so popular, especially with the girls.

Sawako quickly makes friends with Yano Ayane and Yoshida Chizuru. What I like about these two girls is that they are quick to stand up for Sawako, even at risk of being ridiculed. I’ve seen many stories with bullying, and it was refreshing to see the proper way for friends to interact and be there for each other. Kazehaya is also someone who is intolerant of bullying.

While the story centers on Sawako and Kazehaya, it’s actually the ensemble group of characters that makes this series appealing. I found myself just as invested and interested in Yano and Yoshida, which was pleasantly surprising to me. Yano is a girl who’s a bit shy herself, and also lacks the resolve to push herself to be the best she can be. She’s had a number of relationships, but they always turn out bad, which leaves her to wonder if she will ever find true love. Chizuru is the fiery, and somewhat temperamental member of the group. But, she is also fiercely loyal and will always have her friends’ backs no matter what. Chizuru finds herself having to grow up in terms of how she sees love. At first, she’s strongly infatuated with Ryu’s—her longtime friend and classmate—much older brother. It takes her some time to realize that the love of her life has always been right there beside her.

The series is a well-done coming-of-age series about the pains and struggles of high school as we see these characters trying to cope and deal with uncertain futures, new and lost loves, and trying to figure out how—and even if—they can maintain a future together while each of them sets off to pursue college and the next phase of their lives.

I also really enjoyed the character of Arai Kazuichi, the homeroom teacher for this group. He’s humorous, light, and encouraging. A true teacher is always looking to instill confidence in his/her students. To encourage them to push the boundaries and not be afraid to pursue their dreams. As an ESL teacher, this is a mindset I’ve always had with my students. And I really loved his interactions with Yano. Sometimes, it only takes one person to believe in you to provide you with the confidence to move forward; to never settle, and to do whatever it takes to fulfill your dream. There aren’t many things in this world quite so tragic as dreams left unrealized because of the lack of courage to take the chance.

The series is light and full of hope that each of these characters at least has a strong chance to fulfill their dreams and live the lives they desire. And while the series may be a bit short on realism, so what! We can all use an uplifting boost to remind us that none of us should ever settle for anything. Always reach for the stars!