Boys Be is another semi realistic look at high school romance. The focus is on the trials and tribulations of Kyoichi and his friends, as well as their various female aquaintances. Friendships are made, loves are lost, and life progresses onward from day to day. If nothing else, Boys Be is definitely something different. It feels at times like a sort of parallel universe take on To Heart.
Boys Be does right, and vice versa.
Both are uncommonly romantic series with wierd names that are nonetheless aimed at boys. While I prefer To Heart, I think that Boys Be is probably more successful at it's mission. Boys Be thankfully doesn't fall into the dating sim trap, and realizes that the world doesn't revolve around one guy. There are many members of the male cast, all of whom have equal parts in the show, and their own relationships to deal with. This may seem normal, but believe me, many animes have forgotten these simple truths.