Tsuma Shougakusei ni Naru (My Wife Became an Elementary School Student), also known simply as TsumaShois one of the most controversial anime series of recent times. I mean, just look at the name and you’ll understand why. But for the most part, the premise of this series is just meant to attract attention and controversy when in reality, it actually has pretty good storytelling so far.
The concept of the series revolves around a couple Keisuke and Takae who fall in love, get married and have a daughter together. However, tragically, Takae passed away. 10 years pass, during which both Keisuke and their daughter, Mai, experience ups and downs. That is until Takae shows up alive and well on their doorstep, but now as a reincarnated elementary school student.
It’s a strange premise to say the least, but one that’s emotional and surprisingly well-executed. In particular, the first episode immediately attracted viewers with its cold opening. It reads almost like a light-hearted anime version of UpwardsThe film’s masterful opening introduces the central couple’s journey together.
I immediately felt the similarity Grandma and Grandpa are young againalso released in 2024. The only difference is that that series has a light and humorous tone to the point of staying away from too many serious aspects. However, that doesn’t happen here at all TsumaSho. Sure, it has some silly (and weird) moments throughout, but it gets to the point of how serious this issue is.
We can see the heartbreak that Keisuke is going through, accompanied by solid voice acting. This is in stark contrast to his 180-degree change in personality when he realized his wife had come back to life. The elements of grief are explored nicely, even throughout the first episode and its short runtime.
But TsumaSho imperfect, and there’s no greater example of that than in its premise. I have no doubt that Takae came back as an elementary school student just to get attention. After all, she could easily show up on his doorstep as an adult and the story would be fine. The only problem with that is that “My wife reincarnated as a college student” certainly doesn’t trigger the same angst as if she were in elementary school.
It’s a shame because this factor will probably turn off many people from watching. And honestly, I don’t blame them. I will say that this series, so far, revolves around the horror of this idea. Keisuke mostly respects Takae’s (now known as Marika) current stature and age. However, it does not completely eliminate the general discomfort of the problem. There’s always an underlying sense of rawness when watching. This happens even when nothing inappropriate actually happens in the series.
If someone doesn’t want to watch this show, even though they know it’s quite good, I completely understand. In fact, I don’t even encourage them to try it. It’s a pity that mangaka Yayu Murata isn’t confident enough in his talent to shine on his own. Instead, they chose a controversial angle to attract public attention.
My hope as someone who hasn’t delved deeply into manga is that this is a way for Keisuke to overcome his pain and find a way to move on. After all, even the first episode hinted at a possible new love for him, luckily this time he’s grown up. I would be happy to see him find a new friendship with his wife while moving on and finding new love with someone else. This would be the best way to continue the story and avoid some possible pitfalls. However, for now, only time will tell.
I certainly hope TsumaSho soon found his place. This way, it can get away from its controversial premise and focus on what it really delivers: excellent storytelling and characters.
TsumaSho is now available to stream on Crunchyroll.
