Last month, I started thinking about all the reasons anime characters get into sports—or any type of hobby or commitment, whether a school club, a job, or something as life-changing as religion. I’m the type who’s reluctant to make changes or try something new until I’ve thoroughly researched it and am fairly certain I won’t… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Sports Anime and Joining the Team
Here’s part 2 of 3 of our summer anime 2015 review! Baby Steps 2 Baby Steps 2 Annalyn – 8/10 In the Spring anime review, I gave Baby Steps 2 a 7/10. Now that I’ve finished it, I decided to give it an 8/10. I admit, it’s a little difficult to defend the score change. The visuals didn’t… Read More Summer Anime 2015 Review (Part 2/3)
Another season of Baby Steps is complete. I’ve always liked it, but I felt a little more invested this season. Ei-chan has already mastered the basics and set a goal: win the All-Japan Junior to prove to his parents that it’s plausible for him to go pro. In the process, he continues to develop his tennis… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Stepping Outside Your Data
Maruo Eiichiro (Ei-chan) stands out among sports anime protagonists because of his analytical ability. Usually, analyzers are pushed into secondary roles that challenge or support the main character. In Baby Steps, however, the roles are reversed: the analyzer leads, and, in the second season, the charismatic hero-type is just another opponent. I’ve often said that I… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Self-Examination
As the summer season is nearly upon us, it is time for our spring anime review of 2015! This season we have a ton of anime to review by our diverse writers, so do look forward to seeing most of the season’s anime getting reviewed (though we certainly missed some nonetheless!). Hello!! Kiniro Mosaic Hello!!… Read More Spring Anime 2015 Review (Part 1/3)
The opening theme song in Baby Steps (both this season and last) includes three English words: “Believe in yourself.” Last year, I didn’t pay close attention to those words. In this season, the phrase “Believe in yourself” becomes more important than it did before. It’s a trite phrase, one we often repeat to each other, but I think… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Baby Steps and Believing in… Yourself?
Everyone loves self discipline. The hard work, the daily routine of sweat and blood, the power to resist temptation, the success—all this gives a sense of satisfaction that resounds deep in our hearts. It might require pitching practice until his fingertips are bloody, running when his legs already feel exhausted, or writing at the same time every… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: But I’m not an Anime Hero!