Long Road is a manga I discovered at the library after reading Koko (from the same author) during my childhood...no wonder I was attracted to that soft drawing style!! Fumiyo Kouno really has a sweet touch when it comes to creating stories. As I said, not only the drawing are smooth, but the characters give us a glimpse of reality; whether they may be clumsy, grumpy or determined...they eventually all begin to feel wholesome. Especially here, our protagonists really are "losers"; they are either naive and useless or grumpy and driven by their sexual instinct...but the story portrays them in a way we can approach their worldand see what drive them into life.
The story in itself isn't very complicated, but it doesn't mean it's boring. Following the characters in a chapter feels like strolling around for a pleasant walk, bringing the light in everyday life.
If I were to put words on this manga I would say it's a bittersweet reality.
We know they're pathetic and have to live together because of it...still, they can feel joy between themselves.