Manga Monday: Piano Duo for the Left Hand Vol. 1

Series: Piano Duo for the Left Hand #1
Author/Artist: Kenta Matsouka
Publisher: Kodansha Comics
Released: March 15, 2022
Received: NetGalley

Wow. If you’re looking for a new manga series that will give you all the feels, please consider checking out Piano Duo for the Left Hand Vol. 1.

Shu hasn’t precisely had what most people would call an easy life. He’s earned a bad reputation because of it, giving him little reason to care about his future. This all quickly becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Akari Yuzuki is everything that Shu is not. She’s a talented pianist known for having an “Angelic Left Hand.” Despite their different paths in life, Akari wants to give Shu a chance. That’s why she pushed so hard for him to show up to her next recital. Unfortunately, tragedy struck before that could happen.

I’m going to say it again, wow. I could say it a hundred more times and still, emphatically mean it. Piano Duo for the Left Hand Vol. 1 is an emotional read that is so beautifully crafted. Don’t pick this one up unless you’re ready to shed a tear or two (or ten).

It’s difficult to dance around this plot without risking significant spoilers. Shu and Akari are connected in ways that most stories would never dare try. It’s unique and compelling, even if it originally stemmed from tragedy.

What I loved about this story is that it is essentially a new take on the tale where somebody finally realizes their worth. Shu is cleaning up his act, trying to make a future for himself. It’s so heartwarming to see, and I can’t wait to see more of it.

Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.