Dagashi Kashi (2015)

[だがしかし]

Volume 2

Author/Artist: Kotoyama
Publisher: Shounen Sunday Comics

Synopsis:
Kokonotsu becomes concerned when he hears about the new 'boss' of the local kids.

Story/Characters:
While the interactions between Kokonotsu and Hotaru are the crux of the series and there's plenty of goodness to be had on that front, I do like it when attention is paid to the relationship between Hotaru and You, both of them being birds of a feather, and the relationship between Hotaru and Saya. In the latter case, it could have easily been a trite love triangle rivalry, but they get along quite well. If you like the formula established in the previous volume, it continues to good effect here.

Art:
Everything I praised about the art before remains true. I'm rather fond of the comedic use of art shifts. Also, Hotaru's pajamas in the radio taiso chapter are adorable.

Other:
We get six 4-koma this time, plus a full-page spread to punctuate the last one in the set. We also get an afterword from the author (which will become a standard feature) and a diagram of the Shikada shop.

Conclusion:
There's plenty more fun to have in this volume. If you were charmed by the first outing, you'll continue to enjoy the ride. Fans will definitely want to get this volume.

Rating:
Own It