The Apothecary's Diary is undeniably one of the most unique and subtle series of recent years. It has it all: court intrigues, concubines, medical secrets, subtle irony, and an unexpectedly deep heroine.
Maomao is a rare character — intelligent, free-spirited, and capable of seeing the essence of things where others see only silk and smiles. Finding something even remotely similar in quality and spirit seemed impossible. But there is one title that still deserves attention — Ascendance of a Bookworm.
An Anime About a Librarian
The plot is simpler, and the animation isn’t particularly outstanding. But if you watch even one episode, you’ll binge all three seasons (rated 7.6). If you're not afraid of understated visuals, the emotional depth and world-building could make it a worthy competitor to The Apothecary's Diary.
Here, too, the main heroine isn’t a swordswoman, magician, or witch, but simply an intelligent girl whose passion is books. Just like Maomao escapes being a prisoner in the imperial palace with the help of medicine and logic, Mein overcomes poverty, illness, and the feudal society’s norms... simply to read.
About the Anime
The main heroine has always dreamed of becoming a librarian and dedicating her life to reading books. Before her death, she wishes to be reborn and continue her learning. Her wish is granted, and she is reincarnated as a five-year-old girl living in a feudal country. In her new world, books are only available to the elite, so she decides to write them herself.
Yes, it’s all presented just like that — without pomp but with soul. Both heroines, Maomao and Mein, are the type who don’t save the world with fire from their eyes but change it quietly, stubbornly, and from within. They are not omnipotent; they doubt, fall, but keep moving forward.
Both stories also feature excellent secondary characters. Those whose fates don’t seem unnecessary. In The Apothecary's Diary, these are Jinshi, Fengxian, and Gekuyu. In Ascendance of a Bookworm, they are Lutz, Benno, and Ferdinand. Each one is not just decoration but a part of the world. And, what’s particularly pleasant, both series manage to surprise — not with tricks, but with the development of characters.
Of course, Ascendance of a Bookworm doesn’t hide its modest technical limitations. But it is honest in its presentation and very humane. If The Apothecary's Diary moved you, and if you’re looking for the next story about quiet but stubborn struggles for a place in the world — this series deserves your time.
