The story revolves around our main character Ichigo, who is on her first ‘date’. When Ichigo and four other girls become involved in an odd DNA incident, they merge with the DNA of extinct animals. It’s apparent that they’re part of a much bigger plan. The people in charge have selected Ichigo and her newfound friend to take part in a secret project. Their mission: To protect the planet from aliens who are using the planet’s animals to attack humans.

It’s the most strange shojo manga I’ve ever read. Most strange shojo manga I've ever read leaves me with conflicting feelings of liking and hating it. The entire reason for the girls' sudden transformation into animals was nothing short of ridiculous. Despite their reluctance, someone forces the girls to take part in this experiment, and the responsible individuals continue to kidnap and manipulate them.

This series aims at young girls and heavily draws on archetypes like magical girl and animals resembling their owners. Sadly, this lacks an engaging plot. It has beautiful art, however.

Although it’s only the first volume, that someone performed the experiment without consent adds a touch of darkness to a light story. I hope the author will delve into this darker aspect in future volumes. While Tokyo Mew Mew is fun for elementary school students, older readers will need a little more depth. I worry that without addressing consent in future volumes, I'll be uncomfortable with everyone's nonchalant attitude towards it.

This could lead to readers feeling disconnected from the story and the characters. I believe we should explore this important topic in the later volumes. Tokyo Mew Mew's potential as a greater story rests on the writers' abilities.

If the library has the next volume, I may read it. I’m looking forward to seeing how the characters develop and how the story progresses. I’m excited to see what happens next.