I've been reading this story for awhile and I really like it. It's called Noramimi. The art is rather simple but it fits the tone of the story perfectly. Basically it's a world like the real world except that a species of creatures commonly known as mascots exist. Their only purpose and instinct is to play with children and freeload at their houses. As the story itself dictates, it takes place when the demand for these mascots is at its peak. So there are Mascot Agencies which exist to relocate mascots among families and accomodate their needs.
The central story takes place at one of these local agencies (part of a chain) where the main character Noramimi resides. As a mascot, he's terribly unlucky, it's been years since hes met a host family and there is no particular demand for his type. So he's a grouchy, syrup loving yet lovable fellow.
The stories are mostly self contained and often revolve around the practices of these creatures and their interaction with their host families. Sometimes the focus shifts away from Noramimi and his misadventures and highlights often newly introduced characters. Some mascots are really popular or have fantastic superpowers, and some are plain and strive to change their image in order to be more attractive to families. The manga has of yet, not explored their origins or why these creatures even exist, but they have certain features that are highlighted, for instance they cannot feel nor understand romantic love, and they are especially long lived (having entertained generations of children). It's a fun story with some drama here and there and often times it's just about growing up and even the regrets of childhood.
einsam
Colbitzer
@ 6:46 AM Apr 16th