Could making a list change your life?! 『10 Things I Want to Do Before I Turn 40』 by Mamita

Libre Publishing BBC DELUXE (Be-Boy Comics Deluxe) 『10 Things I Want to Do Before I Turn 40』—let me introduce this title!

The following is quoted from the back cover. This article includes impressions, reviews, and references to the story’s content! If you just want a quick overview, I’d be happy if you read only the red, highlighted parts.

“I can handle you easily…―――――――”

A salaryman named “Tojo,” who hasn’t had a lover for over ten years and has given up on romance, is in a boss-and-subordinate relationship with “Tanaka.” With only three months left until his 40th birthday, Tojo begins to feel a growing sense of urgency, and secretly decides to create a confidential “Things I Want to Do Before 40” list. As he reflects on his life and types it out, he’s discovered by Tanaka, his subordinate who’s ten years younger. Instead of laughing at him, however, Tanaka suggests, “Let’s finish the list together.” And so…―――――?

From BBC DELUXE / BE·BOY COMICS DELUXE, Libre Publishing “10 Things I Want to Do Before Turning 40”

I truly want to recommend this to anyone who loves office romance stories and slightly worn-out, low-energy adults. This work beautifully showcases Mamita’s talent for portraying an earnest, gentle, and incredibly lovable protagonist. Of course, there are some steamy moments, but what really got to me was how Tanaka speaks to Tōjō— that unbelievably close emotional distance made my heart race more than once.

Isn’t this just too good…?

What really stands out is Mamita-sensei’s unique worldbuilding and the adorable way even characters that aren’t quite “people” are given the spotlight (＾＾). They… talk? Is that okay? They’re cute, so I guess it is…? Honestly, I can’t even deny that thought. (＾＾)

And then comes the shotgun-level impact of Tanaka-kun wearing glasses (based on personal experience). Even after the panel changes, my eyes are immediately drawn back to him. It’s pure eye candy—so much so that it genuinely surprised me.

Toward the end, just before the climax, Tanaka says a certain line to Tōjō-san. It’s not written in big letters at all, and yet those words alone manage to completely fluster every Tanaka fan—and Tōjō-san himself!! The delicate back-and-forth, every small gesture and movement, makes your heart race in the best way. It’s nerve-wracking, and so much fun to read!

Absolutely amazing (^^)!!

Please do join us in filling out the “things to do before 40” list together with a devoted, younger, glasses-wearing subordinate (^^)