Age 12

At the threshold of adolescence, Hanabi navigates the complexities of being a sixth grader, caught between the carefree joys of childhood and the burgeoning realities of adulthood. As she grapples with the awkwardness of growing up, she finds herself stumbling upon unexpected moments, such as witnessing a tender kiss between her homeroom teacher and someone else. These experiences deepen her anxieties about the physical and emotional changes that lie ahead, particularly as she worries about being left behind by her peers.

Amidst these concerns, the story captures Hanabi's exploration of first love and the innocent yet profound feelings that accompany it. With a keen eye for the nuances of youth, the narrative beautifully illustrates the internal struggles of a girl on the cusp of maturity, revealing the bittersweet nature of growing up.