Manga Monday: He’s Expecting Vol. 1

Writer/Artist: Eri Sakai
Publisher: Kodansha Comics
Released: November 7, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Find it on Goodreads | More Manga

Summary:

Ten years ago, the world changed as we realized that a small percentage of the male population could get pregnant. Unsurprisingly, it’s something that society has struggled to adjust to. Likewise, it’s been an eye-opening experience for all those involved.

Kentaro Hiyama is a career-minded man with solid aspirations. Aspirations, which may be on the line now that he knows he’s pregnant. The good news is that this is quite the lesson for him – making him aware of the discrimination many pregnant people face.

Review:

Every now and then, you come across a series that makes you stop. He’s Expecting Vol. 1 was the most recent series to do that to me. It’s a great concept with a lot of potential to help people reassess their biases.

This book was and wasn’t what I was expecting. On the one hand, I’m thrilled that we got to see a character grow and learn. On the other hand, it’s frustrating that this character needed to be forced into somebody’s shoes before he cared.

Side note: in case it wasn’t obvious, this book focuses a lot on pregnancy. It’s not just about Kentaro’s pregnancy but the pregnancy of many women he meets throughout his journey. If that’s not your cup of tea, I would pass.

Oddly enough, the core concept of He’s Expecting Vol. 1 reminded me of Y: The Last Man. I think it’s because one would expect the story to be more woman-centric, but it isn’t. It’s an interesting thought.

Highlights:

• Manga
• Pregnant Men
• Different Perspective

Will I continue the series? Nah, one was perfect.

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

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