Series & First Appearance
Midori Kasugano is a pivotal character from the anime and manga series Midori Days (Japanese: Midori no Hibi), created by Kazurou Inoue. The story first appeared in the manga from 2002 to 2004, with the anime adaptation releasing from April to June 2004.
Profile at a Glance
Midori is a 16-year-old girl who serves as the main protagonist and love interest in Midori Days. She has a significant connection to Seiji Sawamura, as she inadvertently becomes his right hand due to a supernatural occurrence. Despite her miniature form, she exhibits an array of emotions and ambitions that drive the plot.
Personality & Motivations
Midori is characterized by her shy demeanor, especially in romantic contexts. However, as her relationship with Seiji develops, she becomes more vocal and assertive. Her long-standing crush on Seiji drives her narrative arc, often leading to jealousy when other girls come into the picture. Midori’s determination to confess her feelings and win his heart showcases her resilience and emotional depth, masking her shyness with a seemingly carefree attitude.
Abilities / Powers
Midori’s unique ability stems from her transformation into a miniature version of herself, which allows her to physically inhabit Seiji’s right hand. While her powers are not combat-oriented, they enable her to participate in daily activities, albeit with the limitations of her small size. As the series progresses, she occasionally wakes up in her full body, only to return to her comatose state due to feelings of loneliness.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Midori’s character undergoes significant development throughout the series. Her initial desire to be with Seiji evolves into a deeper understanding of her own emotions and identity. Key arcs include her repeated attempts to confess her feelings, her jealousy towards Seiji’s interactions with other girls, and her moments of waking in her full body. These experiences lead her to confront her fears and evolve into a more assertive individual.
Notable Relationships
Midori’s primary relationship is with Seiji Sawamura, a hot-headed yet kind-hearted boy. She harbors a deep crush on him throughout the series, which serves as the central focus of her character. Additionally, her interactions with other girls who show interest in Seiji highlight her competitive nature and jealousy. Family ties are also significant, as Midori’s mother is desperately trying to wake her from her coma, showing the familial bond that underlies her character development.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes occurs when Midori, in her shrunken form, is finally able to confess her feelings to Seiji (Chapter 34). Although her confession is heartfelt, it goes unrequited, echoing the theme of unfulfilled love that permeates the series. Additionally, her competitive declarations against rival characters, particularly during comedic romantic situations, reflect both her determination and vulnerability.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Midori’s character has gained popularity, amassing over 235 member favorites, which speaks to her appeal among fans. In the Japanese adaptation, she is voiced by the talented Yukari Tamura, while the English dub features voice actress Melissa Fahn. The unique premise of Midori Days—a love story encapsulated in a fantastical twist—opens the door for discussions about romantic longing and the complexities of relationships in anime, often drawing parallels to other romantic comedies that explore unrequited love and personal growth.
Midori’s popularity in various anime polls and fan discussions illustrate her lasting impact, demonstrating the character’s ability to resonate with audiences, especially those who appreciate heartfelt, complex narratives involving love and self-discovery. Through her adventures with Seiji, Midori becomes a symbol of determination and emotional exploration, making Midori Days a noteworthy entry in the romance genre of anime and manga.
