Natsume’s Book of Friends Volume 24

If you haven’t read the volume yet, do that first, then come back. 🙂

In this volume I feel like Natsume is much more…bold? Forward? I’m not sure which word I’m looking for. I guess it’s really about that time though. He’s far enough along in his friendships to get more deeply involved in their affairs. To be fair, Taki did ask for his assistance in her case. I think I was more surprised at how direct he was in Tanuma’s story. Though, thinking back on the time Tanuma got caught up in the whole Omibashira thing, I understand his concerns. At the same time, it’s quite possessive to say “You can’t be friends with my friend unless I say so.” I’m glad that Natsume realizes this and dials it back a bit. The interesting thing here is that he then realizes that this is how Natori must feel sometimes. I’d really like to see an encounter between Natori and Natsume from Natori’s POV. I can guess what he’s thinking from his actions, but sometimes he still comes off as “shady as hell” (as Nyanko-Sensei says in the anime).

Speaking of Nyanko-Sensei, it wasn’t until I read the special episode a second time that I realized what was going on in the background! LMFAO! I think the blackout was youkai related, and it looked like Nyanko-Sensei was kind of scaring them off? I couldn’t really tell. Also, he apparently ate Nishimura’s popcorn and drank all of his soda…probably as his bodyguard fee. I love Nyanko-Sensei so much, lol.

The last story was touching and I enjoyed it. I felt sorry that the youkai wished they looked better. I wanted to hug them and tell them they were fine the way they were.

Before I forget, the illustration of the top five characters is lovely. That said…I’m a little upset that Matoba made top five. I guess it’s that whole “love to hate” type deal thing…but then again, we’ve only scratched the surface with him.

I’m looking forward to the next volume!