Sakura, Saku

Sakura, Saku is the latest work from popular mangaka Sakisaka, known for her long list of hits such as Strobe Edge, Ao Haru Ride, and Love Me, Love Me Not. When Saku Fujigaya falls ill on a train, she is helped by a boy named Ryosuke Sakura. Grateful for his kindness, Saku has tried to live up to it since. When she finds out a boy at her high school, Haruki Sakura, has an older brother named Ryosuke, she asks him to deliver a letter of thanks to his brother--but he refuses! A cute story about kindness and learning more about others, Sakura, Saku is perfect for readers seeking a charming and fun romance. Sakisaka's artwork continues to have the same fluffy and charming look that readers will recognize from earlier works, and Saku's earnest kindness is charming and refreshing.

Gr 7 Up--On a fateful day coming home on a crowded subway, Saku is saved by a stranger after she falls ill, and once he departs, she is only left with his name and number. She waits too long to thank him, and the number is disconnected, but from that day forward, she vows to not be one of the faceless in a crowd, but instead to help those in need. As she enters high school, she follows through on this vow by getting to know her classmates and continuing her small kindnesses, and soon discovers her Good Samaritan is the older brother of her classmate and begs for a meeting between the two of them. They grow close, and perhaps a budding romance could be the result of helping others. This coming-of-age story is about finding yourself, discovering first crushes, and being a good friend and person. VERDICT Fans of Sakisaka's other works, Ao Haru Ride and Love Me, Love Me Not, will certainly want to devour this likewise sweet romance and coming-of-age story.--Sara Smith