I suspect this is one of those books where you read it a second time and go, "Ohhh!" but this first reading made me wonder if it deserved the hype.

It does make more sense the second time around. That was deeply philosophically beautiful. ( )

I was under the impression that these were all self-contained one-shots, so I rated them individually until I realized to stop. These shorts slowly build into a story.

#1: 1 star
I didn't care for it. One of those goose chases with a twist, but I always appreciate detective characters, especially ones who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty.

#2: 2 stars
Somber but wholesome. Two robots reflect on a tragedy for robot kind and the finiteness of human lifespans. But it's sort of heartwarming.

#3: 1 star
A bit of time travel, I guess. Wasn't that engaging tho

#4: 3 stars
This gives me iyashikei vibes. Watching an android do errands, help people, and download various instructions was calming. Just day to day life for Ito. The artwork shines in this as well with different locations and dynamic poses. It ends a bit wistfully too. Hmm.

#5: 2 stars
Not much to say. Necessary plot and backstory

#6: 3 stars
Aww, during a checkup, Ito remembers his deceased spouse. And he has a chance encounter with a new friend.

#7: 2 stars
Hmm

#8 3 stars
Interesting!

I love Toby and Chloe's story. Who knew robots could make you feel all warm and tingly inside. c: Onda's story is so doggone boring. Like, what's the point? Ito and Chloe/Toby's story was so much more impactful. what was the connection to the lady wanting Ito to come back as a man?

Overall, the stories are a little disjointed and take a while to form any type of thread, but it's worth the wait. ( )