Review: Our Dreams at Dusk: Shimanami Tasogare

Title: Our Dreams at Dusk: Shimanami Tasogare

Japanese Title: しまなみ誰そ彼

Edition: Kindle, Paperback, Mass Market Paperback

Author(s): Kamatani, Yuuki

At the peak of a steep hill in the picturesque town of Onomichi stands a building with a lounge open to all. An unusual group of friendly people gathers there, each with their own stories to tell. Tasuku Kaname is a troubled high school student who is prepared to commit suicide because his classmates found out that he might be gay. As he questions his existence, the sight of a mysterious woman jumping off a nearby building leaves him utterly startled. He rushes to the scene only to discover her unharmed, soon learning that she is the owner of the aforementioned building, known to everyone as Anonymous. Anonymous notices Tasuku's nervous temperament and offers him an ear if he is willing to share his problems. While speaking to her, he realizes that the most painful thing is his inability to accept his sexuality. Emotional and heartfelt, Shimanami Tasogare is a realistic take on the struggles of Tasuku among other lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in coming to terms with their selves.