Special A Manga
Special A (Manga)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Japanese Title: スペシャル·エ (Supesharu Ē)
Year of Release: 2003 – 2009 (17 volumes)
Writer: Maki Minami
Original Publisher: Hakusensha (Eng.: Viz Media, Madman Entertainment)
TV: Special A Anime Series 2008 (24 episodes)
Anime Movies: –
Facts: The Manga is called “S.A”, stylized as S・A and pronounced Special A.
Setting
“Special A” is set at Hakusen Academy, an elite institution renowned for its rigorous academic standards. The academy is segmented into classes A through F, determined by student grades. The top seven students from class A constitute a distinct group known as Special A (S.A). This elite group enjoys exclusive privileges and possesses its own dedicated building, featuring a 19th-century-style greenhouse referred to as “The School’s Paradise.” The members of S.A are held in high regard and have maintained their friendships since elementary school.
Plot
The narrative centers on Hikari Hanazono, who has consistently been surpassed by her rival, Kei Takishima. Their rivalry originated at the age of six during a wrestling match that Hikari lost. Driven by a determination to excel beyond Kei in all aspects, Hikari enrolls in Hakusen Academy, where both she and Kei are top-ranking students. Despite her best efforts, Kei consistently secures the first position, leading to a series of comedic and competitive scenarios.
As the plot progresses, Hikari remains unaware of Kei’s romantic affections for her. The narrative explores the evolving nature of their relationship, alongside the dynamics and friendships among the other S.A members: Jun, Megumi, Tadashi, Akira, and Ryuu. The series interweaves elements of romance and comedy, showcasing the characters’ development and their interactions.
Main Characters
At the prestigious Hakusen Academy, a hallowed institution for the nation’s elite, exists a class unlike any other: Special A. Within its gilded walls, a vibrant tapestry of friendships, fierce rivalries, and personal growth unfolds, centered around a core group of seven remarkable students.
The luminous heart of this elite circle beats with two opposing rhythms:
- Hikari Hanazono: The fiery spirit, perpetually ranked second, whose every waking moment is dedicated to the singular, all-consuming goal of surpassing her arch-rival, Kei. Her determination is a force of nature, her spirit as bright as the sun.
- Kei Takishima: The undisputed prodigy, holding the coveted first rank. His cool, collected demeanor masks a profound, unspoken affection for Hikari, their lifelong rivalry a complex dance of subtle glances and veiled intentions.
The remaining members of the Special A class, each a unique facet of this extraordinary collective, weave intricate subplots into the fabric of their shared lives:
- Jun Yamamoto: The third-ranked, a devoted protector, particularly towards his twin sister.
- Megumi Yamamoto: The fourth-ranked, a gifted singer whose delicate voice is as precious to her as her place within the group.
- Tadashi Karino: The fifth-ranked, a cheerful soul, son of the school’s director, who approaches life with a playful, carefree spirit.
- Akira Tōdō: The sixth-ranked, a girl of formidable strength and culinary prowess, often found nurturing the others with her cooking.
- Ryū Tsuji: The seventh-ranked, heir to a sports empire, whose charming exterior hides a thoughtful nature and a budding romantic entanglement.
These seven, bound by their elite status, navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence. They grapple with the pressures of their exceptionalism while simultaneously confronting the tender vulnerabilities of their developing hearts and minds, creating a narrative rich with both aspiration and relatable human connection.
