A Special Thanks Goes To Viz Media For The ARC.
I have heard of NANA for years but never quite found the time to dive in. Thanks to Viz Media’s recent 25th Anniversary Edition, I finally got the chance to experience one of the most iconic and enduring shojo manga series ever created: Ai Yazawa‘s NANA. In this review, I’ll be focusing on that deluxe 2-in-1 omnibus format. For past reviews, visit the Reviews Category, located at this link.
Our story begins with two women who are anxious into a Tokyo groove, both are on the prowl for a funky and cheap place to live. The problem they faced was that inexpensive apartments in Japan’s capital city are hard to find. Luckily for each Nana, they both have a cool clique of friends willing to help out. Too bad these friends are a little eccentric!
After finishing this collected edition, it’s easy to see why NANA is so frequently recommended as a perfect entry point for new shōjo readers. The first volume does an excellent job of introducing both Nanas and where they stand in life when their paths cross. One is on a heartfelt journey of love and self-discovery, while the other is fiercely chasing her dream of becoming a rockstar. The pacing is smooth and accessible, skillfully blending realism with just the right touch of drama and humor. Both women offer distinct perspectives that make it easy for readers to connect with them right away.
Diving into this first collected volume, I was amazed by how deep and profound the story already is. Two completely different worlds collide on a random train ride to Tokyo, and many readers praise NANA for how accurately it captures the anxieties, fashion, and social pressures young people faced in Heisei-era Japan. You can tell how much research and personal experience Yazawa poured into it, even though it’s a fictionalized account set around the turn of the century. One thing worth pointing out is that this is best suited for older teens and adults, given the sexual themes, references to relationships, and mature emotional content—though the heavier elements do ramp up in later volumes.
Finally, I want to highlight the artwork and character designs in this first volume. Ai Yazawa’s eye for detail is remarkable, especially in how perfectly she contrasts the two Nanas. Hachi’s (Nana Komatsu) soft, girly, trendy outfits—full of frills, pastels, and youthful layers—feel approachable and cute, while Osaki’s edgy punk style, complete with plaid, leather, chains, and strong Vivienne Westwood vibes, radiates raw rockstar energy. These designs instantly tell you so much about who these women are and the vibrant, contrasting worlds they’re stepping into.
NANA 25th Aniversary Edition Vol. One is available now at your local book store or e-retailer. Stay tuned for the Second Volume Review in the near future.
Final Grade:
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