By Spring

Souta, a penniless, phoneless and destitute middle-schooler, met a high-school girl with a stray cat underneath a bridge. The girl laughed at his minuscule remaining change, and the two became unlikely friends. The premise is a warm slice of life about a boy who has very little and a girl who gives him more than money.The strength is the warmth. Souta's pride and hardship are drawn with sympathy, and the friendship between the two is tender and funny. The stray cat adds a charming touch.The weaknesses are about pace. The story is gentle, and the plot is light for much of the run. Readers wanting more dramatic stakes may find it quiet.Recommended for readers who enjoy warm, low-key friendships. Expect a gentle, heartfelt read that is best savoured slowly.