Genre: Fantasy/Romance

Creator: Natsuki Takaya

Format: Authentic

Publisher: Tokyopop

Publisher Info: 19+ volumes

Summary: An orphaned girl named Tohru Honda agrees to live with fellow high school student Yuki Sohma and his family. But the Sohma family has a curse causing them to turn into the animals in the Chinese Zodiac when they're embraced by members of the opposite sex or when their bodies weaken. On top of that, Yuki's cousin Kyo is constantly picking fights with him and turns into a cat, which isn't even in the Chinese Zodiac. Can Tohru keep the curse a secret?

The Good: Tohru's a great heroine whose optimism makes her instantly likeable (sort of like the heroine of PollyanaShe looks cute too/ It's similar to Ranma 1/2, but no rip-off.

The Bad: I can do without the side comments.

Offensive material: Usage of magic, mild language, mild violence, and brief nudity.(The Sohmas are naked when they revert to human form) In Vol. 11, Akito is revealed as "God", but that's merely a delusion on his part. Besides, you're not supposed to believe everything the villain says.

Overall: Fruits Basket is a cute comedy. If you like Ranma 1/2, you might also enjoy this series.

My Review: 3.5 Category: B (Borderline. Parental Guidance suggested)

Note: Fruits Basket is also an anime available from FUNimation on 4 DVD's with 26 episodes. It won the Kodansha Manga Award for Best Shojo in 2001.