Star Collector (Vol. 1 & 2)

By Anna Backhausen and Sophie Schönhammer

TW: None

Rating: 16+

Length: 2 Volumes

Vibe: CUUUUUTTTTEEEE

Star rating: 5/5

Official Summary:

Fynn's favorite activities are skipping class, smoking, and lying around. So when he's told it's time to shape up and try doing something else for a change, he has no idea where to even start.

Then, on a nighttime walk around his neighborhood, he sees a stranger with a telescope up on a hill: his name is Niko, and he loves to watch the stars. Intrigued, Flynn decides to find out more about this nerdy boy and what could be so interesting about the night sky that he loves so much.

Review:

I stumbled across this and am really glad I did. It is a very cute story about two teens falling in love and navigating what it means to be in a partnership. We start with the amazing Zoe breaking up with the less spectacular Fynn, and during so implies that perhaps friendship is best for them since Fynn may actually be interested in others (guys). Fynn then meets Niko, and begins to change for the better while also uncovering who Niko is as an individual.

This is a quick, slice-of-life read that feels right for the ages of the individuals involved. What is most striking is the cultural shifts, since the story takes place outside of Japanese society, so we see teens drinking, parents exhibiting tolerance and acceptance, and beyond. These are not spoilers, so don't worry, these two have to navigate the world around them and the way they do so is very indicative of the kind of relationship they have - it is just different than what you'd see in a Japan-based story.

A great comic indeed!