Silver Spoon (manga)

Silver Spoon (Japanese: 銀の匙, Hepburn: Gin no Saji) is a Japanese coming-of-age manga series written and illustrated by Hiromu Arakawa, best known for her work on Fullmetal Alchemist. The series tells the story of Yugo Hachiken, a talented student from Sapporo who, seeking an escape from the pressures of academic life, enrolls at Ooezo Agricultural High School (Ezono) in rural Hokkaido.

Initially struggling with the practicalities and unfamiliar challenges of farming life, Hachiken gradually adapts and finds his own path. He forms close bonds with his classmates, who are mostly children of farmers, and learns about agriculture, animal husbandry, and the realities of rural life. The manga explores themes of hard work, the value of food production, the difficulties faced by farmers, and the challenges of finding one's purpose.

Silver Spoon is noted for its realistic portrayal of agricultural life, its humorous and heartwarming storytelling, and its insightful exploration of character development. It departs significantly from Arakawa's previous fantasy-adventure work, showcasing her versatility as a storyteller. The manga was serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shonen Sunday from April 2011 to November 2019.

The series was adapted into an anime television series by A-1 Pictures, which aired for two seasons in 2013 and 2014. It was also adapted into a live-action film in 2014. Silver Spoon has received critical acclaim for its relatable characters, educational content, and engaging narrative.