The beloved shojo manga series, A Sign of Affection (Yubisaki to Renren), written and illustrated by the duo Suu Morishita, is officially heading towards its climax. The romantic narrative, celebrated for its tender portrayal of a relationship between a deaf university student and a well-traveled upperclassman, is gearing up for its emotional conclusion, much to the anticipation of its dedicated fanbase.
The Journey to Climax for Yuki and Itsuomi
A Sign of Affection began its serialization in Kodansha’s Dessert magazine in July 2019. The series quickly garnered a significant following for its unique premise and heartfelt character development. The story centers on Yuki Itose, a university student who has been deaf since birth, and Itsuomi Nagi, a multilingual upperclassman with a passion for travel. Their budding romance beautifully explores themes of love, communication, and understanding across different worlds, primarily through the lens of sign language and shared experiences.
The manga has consistently provided readers with a nuanced look into Yuki’s “silent world” and how her connection with Itsuomi helps her navigate and expand it. Itsuomi’s genuine interest in learning sign language and understanding Yuki’s perspective has been a cornerstone of their evolving dynamic, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect and deep affection.
A Critically Acclaimed and Popular Romance
Beyond its engaging narrative, A Sign of Affection has received critical acclaim and several accolades. The series ranked 17th in the 2020 Next Manga Award and ninth in the 2021 edition of the Kono Manga ga Sugoi! guidebook’s top 20 Manga for female readers. It has also been nominated for the prestigious Kodansha Manga Award in the shōjo category multiple times, from 2021 to 2024.
The manga’s popularity surged further with the release of its anime television series adaptation, produced by Ajiado, which aired from January to March 2024. The anime introduced a broader audience to Yuki and Itsuomi’s story, further cementing the series’ place as a prominent title in the romance genre. Crunchyroll streamed the series globally, highlighting its international appeal.
What the Climax Means for Readers
As the manga approaches its final chapters, readers can expect an emotional resolution to Yuki and Itsuomi’s journey. The conclusion is anticipated to provide clarity and closure on their relationship, while also reflecting on Yuki’s personal growth and Itsuomi’s unwavering commitment. Key moments in the finale are expected to emphasize Yuki’s increased self-confidence and a profound, silent shared moment that encapsulates their entire journey.
The series has been praised for its ability to portray love beyond verbal expressions, using actions and gestures to forge deep connections. This focus on non-verbal communication and the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities has made A Sign of Affection a significant and impactful work in the manga landscape, advocating for understanding and inclusivity.
A Sign of Affection continues its monthly serialization in Kodansha’s Dessert magazine in Japan. For English readers, Kodansha USA has licensed the manga, providing digital and print releases, with new chapters typically available around the 23rd of each month via Kodansha’s K Manga app. The impending climax marks a significant moment for fans who have followed Yuki and Itsuomi’s heartwarming romance.
