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What is Graduation M?

Sotsugyou M (also known as SotsuM, Male Graduation or Graduation M) was created in response to the popularity of the love/dating simulation game Sotsugyou (Graduation), which was targeted at males and featured an all-female cast. The concept for Sotsugyou M began with the creation of the 5 'male alter-egos' of the female characters in Sotsugyou for the radio drama 'Sotsugyou Crossworlds' that was broadcasted in Japan during 1995. Sotsugyou M later became its own independent series targeted at the female market. From 1995-2000, the popularity of the series has spawned many drama cds & radio shows; its own videogame for PlayStation; two shoujo manga & novel series (Sotsugyou M & Sotsugyou M + or Plus); a 2-part OVA series, music CDs and a new continuing series called Sotsugyou M World.

The basic story...

The setting is a rare and prestigious Japanese all-boys boarding school: Seiryuu Sr. High School. The story is involves the lives of 5 senior students during their graduating year. These five main characters are: Tougo Arai, Shimon Takagi, Shou Nakamoto, Yuusuke Katou and Mikimaro Shimura.  It is a story about the friendships, joys, pains and uncertainties that are encountered on the path from adolescence to adulthood. The series is a balanced mix of humour, love and drama.

The OAVs...

In the beginning of 1999, Sotsugyou M had a 2 part OVA series release. The OAV series is entitled "Ore-tachi no KAANIVARU" [English translation: Our Carnival]. In the OAVs you get to see your favorite characters put on a play - reluctantly - dressed as girls. Very Cute! But no spoilers from me...

My opinion....

If you're looking for a new shoujo series to read, why not give Sotsugyou M a try and soon you'll be sharing in the laughter, tears and triumphs of these five boy's high school life story.