Review of Natsume's Book of Friends

It's no secret in my book. This was a very entertaining title. The artwork wasn't stupendous. But there is a simple, quiet style to it that was pleasing. Some episodes had great background work, but others just so-so. The animation was appropriate for the material. Well rendered for the mostly relaxed vibe presented. Character designs are OK. The humans seem kind of canned. But then the real stars of the show are the yokai. There's real imagination poured into some, and many of the types found in Japanese folklore are well portrayed. The freak parade will definitely keep folks coming back. There is no realstory here. It's episodic Yokai of the Week fare. About the closest I could compare it to would be Mushishi. But it's not anywhere near as well writen. Where Mushishi has conflict and struggle, most of this title is almost too laid back with little seemingly at stake. It's more SoL than supernatural adventure. That's not a bad thing, as long as you're looking to chill. But if you are looking for suspense you may be disappointed.

The VA work here is very appropriate and the directors guide this along a gentle pathway. Their contributions with the animation and use of the soundtrack are quite adequate.

The Book of Friends in no literary masterpiece, but it is a pleasant watch. Worthy of your time and consideration, if you are looking for something to chill out to, after a hard day of pounding the streets. I'd break out the gradebook and award it with an 84/100 for a nice solid B. Become one of Natsume's friends by at least giving this a 3 eps test.