Booklist Review

Based on a short story, Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish is a gorgeously illustrated adaptation of a sweet and inspiring love story. When scuba-obsessed university student Tsuneo meets the stubborn and willful Josee, she is hurtling down a hill in her out-of-control wheelchair after having been pushed. Josee's grandmother hires Tsuneo to spend time with Josee after this incident. She tells him that he's not to take Josee outside--a rule that Josee and Tsuneo quickly break. The pair bond, but a string of tragedies uproot their newfound happiness, while also propelling them forward. The incredibly compelling power of this manga is in the chemistry between the two leads and in the growth that Josee undergoes to become independent. While Tsuneo is called "caretaker," Josee is the one who provides support for him to pursue his goal of studying abroad after it seems his dream might not come true. The art has a floating, oceanic quality that enriches the story. This single-volume manga is a can't-miss tale of love, growth, and hope.