Train Man: A Shojo Manga

by Machiko Ocha
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This single-volume manga is a love story from the point of view of a male geek, who steps in when a drunk man harasses a beautiful woman on a train. She sends the geek a thank-you gift, and he consults other anonymous users on Japan’s hugely popular web-based forum, 2channel, for advice on what to do next. He feels totally outclassed by her, due to his extreme nerdiness, but he also can’t throw away his chance to contact her again. The other anonymous users, made up of various people around Japan, try to help him make up for his lack of social skills, dating experience, etc., giving him the nickname of “Train Man.” The story is based on events that unfolded on the actual 2channel, and despite probably being a publicity stunt, the compelling story (and its lack of copyright) has resulted in several manga, a play, a movie, and a TV series from various sources. This manga is very well translated, especially considering the complications of Japanese internet slang, etc. It’s funny and touching, and one of those rare romances that’s great for people who like love stories and people who hate love stories.

You can read the first 30 pages online at the publisher’s website.

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Where to Find It

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