Haikara-San: Here Comes Miss Modern

"Haikara-san: Here Comes Miss Modern," also known as "Smart-san" or "Mademoiselle Anne," is a Japanese shōjo manga series written and illustrated by Waki Yamato. It was serialized in Kodansha's "Shōjo Friend" magazine from 1975 to 1977. Set in 1920s Japan, the story revolves around Benio Hanamura, a spirited and unconventional young woman who defies traditional gender roles. Raised by her father, a Japanese army officer, Benio is a tomboy who practices kendo, drinks sake, prefers Western attire, and values literature over housework. She opposes arranged marriages, advocating for women's rights to choose their own paths and love freely. The narrative follows Benio's romantic journey with Shinobu Ijuin, a handsome army lieutenant destined to be her husband, through numerous twists and turns. The work is celebrated for its exploration of female independence and a captivating love story, and has been adapted into various forms, including anime, films, TV dramas, and stage plays.