https://fromtheheartofeurope.eu/strawberry-and-the-soul-reapers-by-tite-kubo/

It’s a fairly basic story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a kid with red hair (unusual in Japan, to say the least), who finds himself drawn into the grand supernatural battle between the good guy Soul Reapers and the evil spirits called Hollows. Rukia Kuchiki, the character on my phone case, is one of the immortal Soul Reapers (based on the traditional Japanese shinigami, only cuter), but ends up giving her powers to Ichigo and having to become a normal(ish) schoolgirl.

I wasn’t blown away by it, though I can see why the core audience (which I’m not in) would like it. I would have liked to see more sensitive exploration of Ichigo’s abusive family situation, and I was sorry that the promising character of Orihime was introduced and then apparently got dropped. (Though I believe she comes back in later volumes.) Those who like this sort of thing will find it the sort of thing that they like. ( )

Definitely have read this way back when.
I've read several volumes, but dropped it when it became apparent that the story will drag on forever. ( )

It is hard to believe Bleach started 20 years ago. It’s even harder to believe I have slept on this series that long. Why did I never pick it up? It is so good and now I need the next volumes. Soul reapers send hollows to their resting place. Ichino didn’t know this. He only knew that he has been able to see spirits his entire life. But danger lurks around every corner, and he will need the help and the powers of a Soul Reaper to survive and keep his family alive. This book was action packed, not too gory, but a little bit, and all over a fun read. I know there is an anime as well, I will be checking that out as well. But I think for now, I shall be requesting the next books. ( )

I can see why people like it, but at least for the first book I found it somewhat painful to read. Choppy, not an art style I cared for, etc. Which is odd, I guess, given that I really liked Berserk, which has some of the same style in places.

*shrugs*

Probably just not my thing, but I'll browse a book from later in the series and see if the feel gets closer to my tastes. ( )

I read a volume or two in Shonen Jump, but wasn't sure I'd really get into the story. After reading the first volume (and finally understanding what's going on) I'm hooked. I can't wait to read more and find out what happens next! ( )