When I first was recommended this manga, I thought to myself "Wow...why would anyone want to read this story? For one thing, it's too long. And for another thing, one of the guys in it has the weirdest-looking hair I've ever seen in a shoujo manga." However, I would soon find out that I would have to eat my words.
Hana Yori Dango is by far the best manga I have EVER read, and believe me, I read tons of shoujo manga. The storyline is typical, but the characters are so unique. Here's a girl, Tsukushi, who isn't afraid to say what she feels. She isn't clingy like most females in manga are. She's upright and self-reliant. She's competent of taking on the tasks that no other individual, male or female, would be capable of taking on. She's amazing, both mentally and physically. And then there's Domyouji Tsukasa, the male lead of the story. He's violent, self-centered, hot-tempered, and doesn't know how to treat the woman he loves. However, deep inside, he is extremely caring and reliable. He's willing to sacrifice all his fame, wealth, and family name all for the sake of love, a feeling that he's not used to due to his cold childhood. Although he's not the ideal image of a shoujo male who can sweep a woman off her feet, he's definitely sweet and has his nice moments. Another thing I liked about this story was that it didn't focus so much on starting a relationship. Most shoujo mangas are about a girl and a guy who like eachother but can't admit it to one another until the very last chapter. This typical kind of story is SOO boring and OVER-USED. However, Hana Yori Dango is contrast because the relationship between the main characters initiate from the beginning chapters. The rest of the story is rather focused on building UPON the relationship and strengthening it when outside forces try to break them up. Hana Yori Dango teaches the reader to keep their head held up high and their hopes ignited even when it seems as if their love was falling into the depths of shadows and despair. The lessons of love, life, friendship, family, unity, and acceptance will forever hold a place in my heart.
Believe me, I read Hana Yori Dango in less than 3 days [and it's 240+ chapters!] I also read the top-rated shoujo manga such as Vampire Knight and I still would choose this manga over it because its lovable storyline and the unforgettable characters.
I'm currently watching the Japanese drama and it's wonderful as well.
DEFINITELY WORTH READING. This manga will be in your mental list of best mangas for years to come :D