This series is but one of those select few animes that can be considered a "True Classic". The story deals with some very real, very human issues; and they are not all light hearted, it can get to be very dark. And the story is told and paced so well. You become very attached to the various characters as the story goes on and you sorta feel apart of the story. It's a series that hits the very essence of the human spirit. It is a series that anime fans really need to watch.