Blue Period 17

Winner of the Manga Taisho Grand Prize, Blue Period Volume 17 continues Tsubasa Yamaguchi’s gripping exploration of art as life. The story follows Yatora, a high school student who looks like he has it all but discovers his true voice only when he steps into the art room and encounters a painting that captivates him. As he plunges into painting, he confronts the intoxicating pull and brutal realities of pursuing artistic greatness—practice, critique, sacrifice, and the loneliness that can accompany self-expression. The manga blends sharp character work with empathetic, intense visuals to trace his growth, setbacks, and the moments of clarity when creative ambition finally clicks. This installment deepens the series’ exploration of passion versus conformity, the price of originality, and what it means to find a personal voice within a demanding discipline. A vivid, immersive entry in a highly acclaimed coming‑of‑age art saga.

Who might be interested in reading?

• Readers who love character-driven stories about self-discovery and ambition.
• Artists and aspiring creators who recognize the grind and joy of mastering a craft.
• Fans of introspective manga with moody visuals and themes of identity, authenticity, and personal voice.
• Readers who enjoy coming-of-age dramas set in high school with a focus on art and competition.