Overview of Slow Start#
Slow Start is a charming slice-of-life series that follows the story of 16-year-old Hana Ichinose. Due to personal circumstances, Hana entered high school a year later than her peers. While this might seem like a minor detail to some, for Hana, it is a significant hurdle. The series focuses on her journey as she navigates her new environment and strives to catch up with everyone else.
If you are looking to experience Hana’s journey, you can watch the anime on Prime Video (available via Crunchyroll in supported regions).
Is the Anime Finished?#
When asking “Is the anime finished?”, it is important to look at the origin of the story. Slow Start is an adaptation of a manga that began serialization in Manga Time Kirara on June 7, 2013. The anime adaptation premiered on January 6, 2018.
Because the anime is based on a pre-existing manga, viewers who find the anime’s conclusion leaves them wanting more can transition to the source material. To see the full scope of Hana’s growth, you can buy the Slow Start manga.
Themes and Appeal: Who Should Watch This?#
Slow Start is best suited for fans of the slice-of-life genre who enjoy low-stress, character-driven narratives. The central theme revolves around the feeling of being “behind” in life and the anxiety associated with fitting into a social group when you feel you’ve missed a beat.
Its appeal lies in its relatability and the gentle pacing of Hana’s social developments. For those who love the characters and the aesthetic of the series, you might also be interested in browsing Slow Start merchandise.
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Depending on your preferences, there are a few ways to approach this series. Please refer to the relationship tree provided on this page for a visual breakdown of these connections.
Release Order#
If you prefer to experience the series as the general public did, start with the Slow Start anime (2018).
Completionist Order#
For those who want the full context before seeing the animated version, we recommend starting with the Slow Start manga (2013) and then watching the anime adaptation.
The “Source Material” Path#
If you enjoy the anime and want to see if there is more story to uncover or more detail provided in the original art, watch the anime first and then pick up the manga to continue the journey.
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Slow Start • manga • 2013-06-07 (serialized in Manga Time Kirara)
└─(adaptation)→ Slow Start • anime • 2018-01-06
