Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability. Kei always comes out on top no matter what he does, and Hikari is determined to do whatever it takes to beat this guy. Her whole life, Hikari Hanazono has been consumed with the desire to win-at anything-against her school rival, Kei Takishima. Now, at 15, Hikari joins 'Special A,' a group of the top seven students at a private academy, for the opportunity to trounce the guy who made her suffer her first defeat. He always comes out on top no matter what he does, and Hikari is determined to do whatever it takes to beat this guy.somehow At age 6 Hikari lost to Kei in an impromptu wrestling match. Her whole life, Hikari Hanazono has been consumed with the desire to win against her school rival, Kei Takishima-at anything. 'About this title' may belong to another edition of this title.īook Description Paperback. (Nov)Ĭopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. Kei's interest is held out as a kind of consolation prize, while the girl who goes after the guy she wants is a figure of ridicule, needing to be taught her place. Hikari must learn that no matter how hard she tries, a girl can't beat a boy. Hikari's defeats are supposedly mitigated by Kei's affection for her. While the others have elite backgrounds and innate talents, Hikari continues to believe hard work is the only way to succeed, even when her determination loses to Kei's natural gift of a perfect memory.

The work's serial nature is evident in the reintroduction of the characters at the beginning of every chapter, but it's helpful to keep the various overachievers straight for the reader, although the supporting cast characterization is told, not shown. It's a familiar setup told through lots of closeups, carried by the artist's skill in capturing realistic expressions. They're both the best of the best at their exclusive school, but Hikari's eternally #2 to his #1. 1 (Book 1 in the Special A Series) by Maki Minami See Customer Reviews Select Format Paperback 5.39 Select Condition Like New 5. Hikari has been obsessed with besting fellow student Kei ever since Kei beat her at wrestling when they were six, her first-ever defeat.

This competition manga reinforces traditional gender stereotypes under the guise of school comedy.

Special A, Vol. 1 by Maki Minami