Read Otoyomegatari 乙嫁物语; 乙嫁語り (Japanese); 姊嫁物語; 少女新娘物语 (Chinese); เจ้าสาวแห่งทางสายไหม (Thai); 신부이야기 (Korean); A Bride's Story; Bride Stories (French); Otoyome Gatari; Otoyome Katari; Otoyome-gatari; Strange Bride Story; The Bride's Stories; Young Bride's Story (English); Aron morsiamet (Finnish); Opowieść Panny Młodej (Polish)
Otoyomegatari unfolds in a small Central Asian village close to the Caspian Sea in the early 1800s. The narrative centers on Amir, a young woman who travels from a faraway mountain settlement to wed Karluk, a boy eight years younger than her. Through their lives, the story paints a vivid picture of daily customs, traditions, and the bonds within their tight-knit community. Yet, the tranquility is shattered when Amir’s relatives insist on bringing her back to her homeland, creating tension. The series beautifully captures the cultural richness and challenges of the era. Recognized for its storytelling, it secured the 7th Manga Taishou Award in 2014 and the intergénérations prize at Angoulême’s International Comics Festival in 2012. The artwork and narrative blend seamlessly, immersing readers in the historical setting. Themes of love, duty, and cultural identity are explored with depth and sensitivity. The characters’ struggles and joys reflect the universal human experience, making it relatable despite its historical backdrop. The series stands out for its meticulous research and emotional resonance, earning acclaim from critics and fans alike. Its portrayal of rural life and interpersonal dynamics adds layers of authenticity to the tale.
