Review:
This is now the second entry I've read in the Manga for Success series, which discusses business-related topics with a combination of textbook-ish sections alternating with manga-style scenario sections. Unlike the previous one, this does not say in the introduction that it can be read multiple ways. I thought, at first, that this was an oversight, but now that I've finished it I agree - it's best to just read this one straight through. While the manga-style scenario sections did illustrate concepts discussed in the textbookish section, the manga portions glossed over (or completely skipped) quite a few concepts discussed in the textbook sections. The textbook sections, meanwhile, were packed with enough information that I wouldn't have wanted to read them without the occasional manga scenario interruptions.
This time around, the manga sections starred Marimo, a young woman who's recently been fired from work and dumped by her boyfriend. She goes home to her parents to lick her wounds only to discover that their traditional Japanese confectionery shop, Tamaya, isn't doing very well - almost all of its few customers are elderly regulars. One night, Marimo is approached by two "emissaries from the marketing circle of heaven" (33), Logi and Emo. In order to be allowed back into heaven, they must "save someone's life with the power of marketing" (34). (Direct quotes used, in case you think I'm exaggerating. This gets a bit dramatic.) They help her figure out how to use marketing concepts to get Tamaya new customers without losing their regulars.
