“Naoko Tsuji, an unorthodox health teacher at an all-girls school, doubts whether the sex ed status quo truly teaches young people everything they need to know—so she ramps it up to 120%! Luckily for Tsuji, her class proves to be an almost unflappable group, including a BL fan, a lesbian, and a girl who just really likes her cat! With topics like safe sex for same-gender couples, masturbation positivity, and why sugar gliders have three vaginas, this sex education comedy is more than just dirty jokes. It's time for class!” (Yen Press)
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The titillating titled “Sex Ed 120%” examines the ins-and-outs of sexuality and importance of understanding both needs and how to practice safe sex. As such, the title focuses on facts and statistics to educate a group of youths into how to care for their health during a self exploration of sexuality – in both physical and mental sense. In addition, the book is littered with intriguing facts to ensure that even the most experienced reader will come through with new tidbits of info. Education is key, however, and “Sex Ed 120%” brings its own unique charm to ensure the lessons both stick and entertain.
Notably, Kikiki Tataki has created a diverse group of individuals excited to learn about their bodies – varying in orientation and body types. Admittedly, this choice will deter those looking for the regular fan service but the realism is refreshing and more appropriate for its academic approach (educational instead of exploitative). Thankfully, this diversity is presented with sincerity in exploring how issues may affect different people and no one character's lack of experience or orientation is used as a punchline. Ultimately, the release is considerate of the material it covers and how it may affect a reader approaching it, looking for guidance in a subject that can often be taboo to discuss openly.
However, it is important to note that the material is not always serious, as Kikiki Tataki and Hotomaru are able to inject humour without compromising the seriousness of the subject. For example, the chapter on animals and how sex differs between species has the class imagining a group of weird humanoid mascots with accurately shaped phalli. Furthermore, a bulk of the lessons comes from the over enthused Naoko Tsuji whose constant outbursts give a complimentary comedic delivery to much of the info. Ultimately, while the educational aspect is at the forefront of the narrative, “Sex Ed 120%” is able to remain uproariously entertaining in the process.
The art of Hotomaru is playful, at its best when capturing the outbursts of the students and teachers. Unfortunately, the overarching aesthetic is a bit too simple to hold greater attention or worthy of praise and leaves an impression of being serviceable at best. Thankfully, there are some nice touches that give the release a greater sense of identity in the form of the bonus chapters. Though brief, these segments offer insight into the creators own reservations and fears in tackling such subject matter. This introspective look gives insight into how the end product ended up wonderfully balancing education and entertainment.
“Sex Ed 120%” is a rather peculiar title that manages to make education entertaining. Personally, even though I aced the sex exam at the end of the book I still managed to learn a few things – such as how a sugar glider penis works. While I may not be able to do much with this information, the deviation into such facts is welcome among the common revelations (like the need to wash your hands after masturbation). Ultimately, “Sex Ed 120%” is a silly and informative title that will win over fans with its unique approach to comedy and charming characters.
