"Fruits Basket" is a beloved anime and manga series written and illustrated by Natsuki Takaya. The story is a mix of romance, drama, and fantasy with a strong emphasis on character development and themes of family, acceptance, and personal growth. Here's a detailed overview of "Fruits Basket":

Plot:
The story follows Tohru Honda, a high school student who, after a series of unfortunate events, ends up living in a tent in the woods. She discovers that her tent is on the property of the Sohma family, a well-known and wealthy clan with a peculiar curse. Members of the Sohma family are possessed by the animals of the Chinese zodiac and transform into their respective animals when hugged by someone of the opposite gender. Tohru learns about the Sohma family's secret and becomes entwined in their lives, forming deep connections with the cursed family members.

Themes:
"Fruits Basket" explores themes of family, friendship, love, and acceptance. The curse serves as a metaphor for the characters' emotional struggles and feelings of isolation. The story highlights the healing power of genuine connections and the importance of confronting and overcoming one's past.

Characters:
Tohru Honda is the optimistic and caring protagonist who gradually becomes close to the Sohma family members. The Sohma family includes characters representing the twelve animals of the zodiac, each with their own unique personalities and struggles. The characters undergo significant development as the series progresses.

Art and Animation:
The anime adaptation, which was first aired in 2001 and later received a remake in 2019, features character designs that capture the essence of the original manga. The animation style evolves between the two adaptations, with the 2019 version benefiting from updated visuals and animation techniques.

Music:
The soundtrack complements the emotional tone of the series. Both the opening and ending themes contribute to the overall atmosphere, with music that ranges from uplifting and cheerful to melancholic and emotional.

Overall Impression:
"Fruits Basket" has been well-received for its compelling characters, heartfelt storytelling, and emotional depth. The series has gained a dedicated fanbase over the years and is often praised for its ability to tackle serious and sensitive themes while maintaining a sense of warmth and optimism. The 2019 adaptation, in particular, received acclaim for its faithfulness to the source material and improved animation quality.

Whether you enjoy romance, drama, or character-driven narratives, "Fruits Basket" offers a well-rounded and emotionally resonant experience. It's a classic in the shojo genre and remains popular among anime and manga enthusiasts.