Natsume Takashi has the ability to see spirits, which he has long kept secret. However, once he inherits a strange book that belonged to his deceased grandmother, Reiko, he discovers the reason why spirits surround him. Containing the names of these spirits, a binding contract was formed between the spirits and the owner of the book. Now, Natsume is determined to free the spirits and dissolve the contracts. With the help of a spirit cat, his days are filled trying to return the names to these spirits.
"Natsume Yuujinchou" is a great series, especially if you need a break from the usual anime or would like to relax.
Its setting is nothing out of the ordinary. A highschool boy can see spirits. However unlike other series he doesn't destroy them all but tries to understand their situations and help them. This makes for an anime with very little shounen elements. I would have liked it though if Natsume had shown some more guts and strength every now and then but I guess that wouldn't be a realistic reaction.
There are only a couple of side characters but their personalities and relationships with Natsume are each different. The conversations stay interesting and especially the cat can be really funny.
Just like the theme of this show, its main character and the music, the art is calm and suits it perfectly.
"Natsume Yuujinchou" is a very enjoyable anime. You don't really feel the need to know what happens next and it isn't the most suspenseful but I was always looking forward to watching another episode. Its ability to relax reminded me of "Aria" but it contains less moral and a bit more action.
what I liked:
- Very relaxing
- No shounen focus
- Fitting music and art
what I didn't like:
- The main character does'nt grow much.
Only his situation changes a bit.
- The appearance of spirits was recycled a few times.
