Series & First Appearance
Title: Ascendance of a Bookworm (Japanese: Honzuki no Gekokujou)
First Appearance: Chapter 1 of the manga, Volume 1, also adapted into anime starting with Episode 1 (aired April 2020)
Creator: Designed by Miya Kazuki, illustrated by Suzuka. The anime adaptation is produced by production I.G.
Profile at a Glance
Myne (real name: Motosu Urano) is a 5-year-old girl in a fantasy world, reincarnated from her original life as a book-loving young woman. Although she physically appears frail due to her weak body, she serves as the protagonist, driven by her passion for books and knowledge. Myne possesses a unique ability to channel her previous life’s memories and a strong affinity for mana, despite suffering from the illness known as "Devouring."
Personality & Motivations
Myne is characterized by her intense love for books and a deep desire to live a life filled with reading and learning. Initially self-centered in her quest for knowledge, she gradually becomes more emotionally invested in her new family and friends, demonstrating growth in her empathy and compassion. Notably quirky, she becomes exceedingly irrational when her access to books is threatened, often leading to explosive reactions that the characters around her recognize and attempt to manage. Her catchphrase could be summarized as “I need books!” which encapsulates her core motivation.
Abilities / Powers
Myne has a remarkable intellect and exceptional memory retention from her previous life. This allows her to recall and utilize a wide array of information, most notably about books, printing, and nutrition. As a gifted teacher, she inspires others to share her passion for learning. However, her frail constitution limits her physical activities, resulting in frequent fevers and fatigue, especially when overstressed. Myne’s most significant challenge is the "Devouring" illness, which affects those with high mana levels, leading to severe repercussions on her health. Interestingly, her strong will has enabled her to continue living despite the severity of her condition.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Myne’s journey begins with her determination to create and control her own library. In her early adventures, she struggles to secure resources for books and often faces societal barriers due to her status as a commoner. A pivotal moment occurs when she is adopted by Karstedt and later the archduke, resulting in her name change to Rozemyne. This transformation marks her transition from a mere bibliophile to a significant figure within her new world, allowing her to leverage her abilities on a grander scale. Throughout, her relationships, especially with individuals like Ferdinand and Lutz, play critical roles in helping her navigate her new life.
Notable Relationships
- Ferdinand: A former priest and her mentor, Ferdinand serves as a moral compass and a stabilizing force for Myne, often advising her when her obsession with books becomes reckless.
- Lutz: Myne’s best friend and collaborator, Lutz shares a close bond with her, supporting her ambitions while grounding her in reality.
- Karstedt: Myne’s adoptive father, who takes a keen interest in her well-being and growth, further catalyzing her development as a noble.
These relationships significantly influence her character arc, showing her transition from self-centered goals to a more interconnected way of life.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Volume 1, Chapter 3 when Myne discovers the existence of paper, exclaiming, “The world is full of wonderful things!” This captures her essence as a curious and passionate individual driven to explore the realm of knowledge. Another impactful scene is when she realizes her name change to Rozemyne in Volume 2, marking a major turning point in her personal identity and social status, illustrating her evolution from a bookworm to a person of significant influence.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actors: Myne is voiced by Yuka Iguchi in the original Japanese version. In the English version, she is voiced by Reba Buhr, contributing to her character’s distinct personality across different cultures.
- Popularity: Myne has gained substantial popularity in reader polls, often ranking highly as a favorite protagonist due to her relatable love of books and her determination.
- Cultural References: The character resonates particularly with bibliophiles and those who have felt the pains of societal limitations, allowing her to become a symbol of perseverance and ambition in the face of adversity.
Myne’s character encapsulates a rich blend of passion, resilience, and growth, which makes her a quintessential figure in the world of Ascendance of a Bookworm and a beloved character among fans.
