365 Days of Manga, Day 87: Pearl Pink

PEARL PINK (Tennen Pearl Pink, “Natural Pearl Pink”) (天然パールピンク) • Meca Tanaka • TokyoPop (2007-2008) • Hakusensha (LaLa, 2002-2004) • 4 volumes • Shôjo Romantic Comedy • 13+ (brief comic violence, infrequent sexual situations)
Kanji, a 16-year-old who works for his dad’s talent agency, is startled by the reappearance of 13-year-old Tamako, the tomboyish daughter of his dad’s top actress, who had to hide her child in order to make it in the business. Turns out that, when they were both children, Kanji promised Tamako he would marry her, and now she’s back to get him, along with her pet monkey. A better story than the premise suggests, Pearl Pink is one of the best “model/actress” manga for the junior high set. Tanaka’s art is sketchy but energetic and not too saccharine, and the character relationships are well-written: the three-dimensional relationship between mother and daughter, the girl whose childish infatuation turns to love which turns into a desire to become self sufficient and grow up. Although initially told from Kanji’s perspective, Tamako comes to dominate the story, as she embarks on a mission to become an actress. It’s a good choice on Tanaka’s part, evolving Tamako from a moe love object to an appealing heroine.

Today’s winner is Shannon B. of Rhode Island! Congratulations, Shannon!