The first volume of this manga series is very promising. It's invigorating to read a story about a transgender boy that focuses not only on his gender dysphoria but his strengths and passions. Over the course of these first few chapters Ryo is already growing more confident, thanks to the support from his new friend Jin and their budding dream of starting a fashion brand. I know practically nothing about fashion or what goes into designing it, so I'm sure following the development of Boys Run the Riot will remain interesting for me.

I enjoy that these characters are written with the flaws and insecurities that an average student may have, making them feel realistically human. Ryo especially seems to be slowly learning that being true to yourself is worth the possible risks, as euphoria often follows and offsets the fear. His friendship with Jin is obviously a turning point in his life and disrupts some of his assumptions that he's too strange to be understood or respected. So far I found their relationship rewarding to read about. I like that Jin fully accepted Ryo while still pointing out to him that others won't understand what he refuses to tell them, but that doesn't mean they won't want to try.

The art for this manga is also done well, it's easy to make sense of what's occuring on the page and what the characters must be feeling. They're each drawn with detailed expressions in scenes paced with an almost cinematic quality, so my full attention was absorbed in no time. I look forward to reading more of Boys Run the Riot, and hopefully seeing Ryo and Jin's dreams realized. The boys are endearing characters with talent and drive, and it's impossible not to root for them.