blue exorcist

Blue Exorcist Manga to Take a Two Month Break Due to Author’s Fatigue

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

Kazue Katō has announced on her Twitter account that she will put her Blue Exorcist manga on hiatus for two months. The manga will not appear in the March 2021 and April 2021 issues of Shueisha’s Jump SQ. magazine, which ship on February 4, 2021 and March 4, 2021 respectively. Katō explained, “simply put, 12 years of fatigue exploded.” She added that she is not sick and is enjoying her vacation.

The story of the manga is described as:

Raised by Father Fujimoto, a famous exorcist, Rin Okumura never knew his real father. One day a fateful argument with Father Fujimoto forces Rin to face a terrible truth—the blood of the demon lord Satan runs in Rin’s veins. Rin swears to defeat Satan, but doing that means entering the mysterious True Cross Academy and becoming an exorcist himself. Can Rin fight demons and keep his infernal bloodline a secret? It won’t be easy, especially when drawing his father’s sword releases the demonic power within him.

Katō launched the Blue Exorcist manga in Jump SQ. in 2009. VIZ Media is publishing the manga in English.

Source: ANN

VIZ Media Announces February 2021 Manga Releases

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

VIZ Media has announced the company’s manga releases for February 2021.

Shonen Jump

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Part 4–Diamond Is Unbreakable Volume 8
Story and Art by Hirohiko Araki

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

What kind of weirdo lives on a transmission tower? An all new enemy Stand attempts to trap, outwit and eliminate Josuke Higashikata and Okuyasu Nijimura, but Shining Diamond is a formidable foe. Then, the battle for Morioh turns personal when Koichi disappears. What else does this new enemy have in mind for the gang? Plus, Yoshikage Kira is still hiding, biding his time, eager to take another life…

Chainsaw Man Volume 3
Story and Art by Tatsuki Fujimoto

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

A mysterious devil is demanding Denji’s heart. Will the devil hunters from Division 4 agree to this deal to save themselves? Or will Denji have to do what Denji does best—turn into a chainsaw and slice up everything that gets in his way?

Naruto: Shikamaru’s Story–Mourning Clouds
Written by Takashi Yano
Original Story by Masashi Kishimoto

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Price: USA$10.99

A rupture in the alliance at the Summit of the Five Kages triggers the Fifth Great Ninja War. Meanwhile, Shikamaru and his family grow further and further apart. But Shikamaru has a very powerful card up his sleeve to bring peace to both the world and his family.

We Never Learn Volume 14
Story and Art by Taishi Tsutsui

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

Rizu Ogata’s a genius when it comes to science and math, but she can’t seem to understand the subtleties of human emotion. For her, the tidiness of logic and order that the sciences provide are a comfort, especially when she tries to understand her own feelings for Nariyuki. At the same time, Rizu’s dealing with self-esteem issues, and because of those conflicted feelings, she suddenly disappears.

Blue Exorcist Volume 25
Story and Art by Kazue Kato

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

As his vision of the past draws to a close, an older Rin bears witness to the tragic climax of the Blue Night. He watches as Satan’s cloned body can no longer contain the massive cosmic energies within him. The Knights of the True Cross are faced with an unprecedented crisis as a wave of destruction begins to sweep across the world. Although just a newborn, Rin is hugely powerful and his demon heart scourges the Knights of the True Cross with its fire. The blue flames continue to spread and no one will be spared their heat…

Jujutsu Kaisen Volume 8
Story and Art by Gege Akutami

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

Yuji Itadori and the first-years have defeated two of the reincarnated Death Painting curses and recovered one of Sukuna’s fingers. Due to their success, some have been recommended for a promotion to Grade 1. Later, the story flashes back in time to when Satoru Gojo and the nefarious Suguru Geto were second-year students at Jujutsu High. What went wrong back then that led Geto astray?

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Volume 10
Story by Masashi Kishimoto
Art by Mikio Ikemoto
Script by Ukyo Kodachi

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

Kawaki starts to feel comfortable in his new home, but a surprise visitor threatens to change all that. Meanwhile, Naruto makes quick work of his first opponent from Kara, but when Jigen invades the village, his next challenge won’t be as easy.

Seraph of the End Volume 20
Story by Takaya Kagami
Art by Yamato Yamamoto
Storyboards by Daisuke Furuya

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$9.99

The Hyakuya Sect descends on the Demon Army as the First Progenitor, Sika Madu, takes over Shinoa’s mind and body. Leading the invasion is none other than Second Progenitor Rígr Stafford, and he’s after Yuichiro, who is once again on the run with Mika. Meanwhile, Guren and Mahiru enact their long awaited plan, allowing the second demon inside Guren, Noya, to possess him. It’s an all-out war between vampires, humans and demons.

Dr. Stone Volume 15
Story by Riichiro Inagaki
Art by Boichi

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

While the Kingdom of Science is busy reviving people, Senku’s task force is putting together a plan to nab the petrification device. Once the equipment’s ready, it’ll be a three-way showdown between the Kingdom of Science, the Petrification Kingdom and the mighty warrior Moz. But Senku’s enemies are one step ahead with a scheme of their own…

Samurai 8: The Tale of Hachimaru Volume 5 (FINAL VOLUME)
Story by Masashi Kishimoto
Art by Akira Okubo

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

The secrets of the universe are revealed as Hachimaru fights for his life in the final volume of Samurai 8: The Tale of Hachimaru.

Kaguya-sama: Love Is War Volume 18
Story and Art by Aka Akasaka

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

Will Ai leave her post as Kaguya’s personal assistant and confidant? Meanwhile, Kaguya and Yu go to great lengths to prevent their not-so-dark secrets from getting out. A sports tournament provides yet another opportunity for the gang to desperately attempt to impress each other with their athletic prowess—or coaching skills. And then it’s finally time for an educational school trip. Of course all the students view this as just an opportunity to hang out with or spy on the objects of their attraction.

Wet hair is better than a wet T-shirt.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Volume 20
Story and Art by Koyoharu Gotouge

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

After their initial confrontation with Kokushibo, the most powerful of Muzan’s demons, Tokito is severely wounded and Genya has been cut in half—but is still alive. Can his regenerative power heal even this fatal wound? Then the Hashira Himejima and Sanemi square off against Kokushibo and unleash all the skill they have against him. Himejima is blind, but if he can see into the Transparent World, he might have a chance. Who will survive this whirlwind of flashing blades?

Shojo Beat

Shortcake Cake Volume 11
Story and Art by suu Morishita

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

Riku’s mother asks him to come live with her, but Rei still won’t tell Riku how he truly feels about him. Ten does everything she can to push Rei in the right direction because she knows it’s the key to seeing Riku smile again.

The King’s Beast Volume 1
Story and Art by Rei Toma

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

Legend says that a sacred beast appears in the time of a great king…

Ajin are people who bear the attributes of beasts, and in this kingdom they are forced to serve men in the military and women in the brothels. The Ajin boys who show signs of special abilities are conscripted to serve in the imperial palace as beast servants—status symbols and shields for their royal masters, to be kept or discarded on a whim. When Rangetsu’s twin brother Sogetsu showed signs of such abilities, he was ripped from her arms and given to Prince Tenyou as a beast servant, where he quickly fell victim to bloody royal intrigues. Now in a world that promises only bitterness, Rangetsu’s one hope is to disguise herself as a man and find a way into the palace to avenge her brother.

Yona of the Dawn Volume 28
Story and Art by Mizuho Kusanagi

On Sale Date: February 2, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

After Yona and her friends save the Fire Tribe from an invasion by the Kai Empire, word of their prowess spreads amongst those with deep faith in the Crimson Dragon King. Yona and the gang take cover at Saika Palace, but what trouble awaits when Su-won’s advisor Keishuk shows up to guard the Fire Tribe border?

VIZ Media

Fullmetal Alchemist: Fullmetal Edition Volume 12
Story and Art by Hiromu Arakawa

On Sale Date: February 9, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$19.99

In an alchemical ritual gone wrong, Edward Elric lost his arm and his leg, and his brother Alphonse became nothing but a soul in a suit of armor. They seek answers in the north but are blackmailed into aiding a terrible plot that threatens to destroy the entire country.

Pokemon Adventures Collector’s Edition Volume 6
Story by Hidenori Kusaka
Art by Satoshi Yamamoto

On Sale Date: February 9, 2021
Age Rating: All Ages
Price: USA$17.99

Trainer Ruby must battle his scariest opponent yet… his father. Meanwhile, Sapphire is having trouble getting in her quota of Gym battles. One Gym Leader wants to just hand her a badge without a proper fight, and another has been… kidnapped? Behind the scenes, it looks like Team Magma, with a little help from Team Aqua, might be the reason Ruby and Sapphire are on a losing streak.

Collects the original Pokemon Adventures Volumes 16, 17 & 18.

A Tropical Fish Yearns for Snow Volume 6
Story and Art by Makoto Hagino

On Sale Date: February 9, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

Koyuki and Konatsu have both started to see the other as important, but they’re still unable to be honest about their feelings. This leads to frustrating days when they’re never in sync, and gradually they begin to drift apart. Then one day Konatsu sees Koyuki and her classmate Kaede spending time together as if they’re the best of friends, and she can’t contain her agitation. Konatsu and Koyuki feel so strongly about each other that they feel uneasy even when there’s nothing to worry about.

VIZ Signature

Urusei Yatsura Volume 9
Story and Art by Rumiko Takahashi

On Sale Date: February 16, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$19.99

The principal is inspired to launch a Miss Tomobiki High pageant in which the ladies of the school vie for dominance in beauty, intellect and combat skills. Who will win the Miss Tomobiki High crown? Later, Mendo’s secret past is suddenly revealed. Driven by empathy—or perhaps friendship, or maybe just curiosity—Ataru and the gang journey to Mendo’s childhood to address the roots of his incurable claustrophobia. Will a scalpel finally pierce the darkness that lurks in Mendo’s heart?

Blue Flag Volume 6
Story and Art by KAITO

On Sale Date: February 16, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$12.99

The culture festival begins, and Toma and Taichi talk about their futures, but it ends with the two not quite seeing eye to eye. Shortly after, Toma sits down with Mami for a serious discussion, and in response to her earnest openness, he makes a big decision that could change everything. Time keeps moving forward, pushing everyone to the cusp of making critical life choices.

Mermaid Saga Collector’s Edition Volume 2 (FINAL VOLUME)
Story and Art by Rumiko Takahashi

On Sale Date: February 16, 2021
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA$24.99

Immortals Yuta and Mana continue to come across people who are dealing with the effects of having eaten mermaid flesh. Some are scarred, in excruciating pain or just trying to survive, but they all lead mysterious lives filled with unspeakable horror. Is one’s humanity doomed to be lost in exchange for immortality?

Golden Kamuy Volume 20
Story and Art by Satoru Noda

On Sale Date: February 16, 2021
Age Rating: Mature
Price: USA$12.99

If the hidden Ainu gold can ever be found, will it be worth the price paid for it in lives lost and ruined? Who really murdered the Ainu for their treasure? With Kiroranke dead, Ogata may have some answers, but after the confrontation on the ice of the Mamiya Strait he needs medical attention. The lure of the gold still calls to Hijikata and his men, and Tsurumi and the rogue soldiers of the 7th Division are far from giving up—if they can’t get their hands on Sugimoto and Asirpa, they’ll tear each other apart instead.

Assassin’s Creed: Blade of Shao Jun Volume 1
Story and Art by Minoji Kurata

On Sale Date: February 16, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$14.99

1526 AD—China is ruled by the Great Ming Empire. Though the empire flourishes, the winds of the new Emperor’s political purge are sweeping over the land, and turmoil is brewing. With the decimation of her comrades, Shao Jun has become China’s last Assassin. After escaping to Europe, she has now returned alone to her homeland. Her purpose: vengeance.

Shonen Sunday

Komi Can’t Communicate Volume 11
Story and Art by Tomohito Oda

On Sale Date: February 9, 2021
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA$9.99

It’s spring break, the Komi family is ready for adventure and a recently renovated resort is calling their name. And they aren’t the only ones lured by the prospect of go-karts and camping— the Tadano family is there for some fun too, with Najimi tagging along. But when a sudden summer storm strands Tadano and Komi in a deserted cabin, things turn serious. How will they avoid catching colds with only one blanket to warm them?

VIZ Media Announces August 2020 Manga Releases

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

VIZ Media has announced the company’s manga releases for August 2020.

SHONEN JUMP

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Part 4–Diamond Is Unbreakable Volume 6
by Hirohiko Araki

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $19.99

Yukako Yamagishi still loves Koichi Hirose, despite how their last rendezvous turned out! She’s so desperate for his love that she may make a drastic decision in order to win his heart—a decision that could have disastrous consequences when a new Stand appears. Is this an enemy Stand, or is it going to help her in her quest?

My Hero Academia: Smash!! Volume 5
by Hirofumi Neda, Original Concept by Kohei Horikoshi

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

News flash! Parody series are pretty embarrassing to the main series’ protagonists. And this final volume of the My Hero Academia parody series goes Plus Ultra with its Gag Quirk to explore new horizons of humiliation. If nothing else, you gotta check out Bakugo’s pretty boy makeover. But if he’s not amused, will anyone get the last laugh?

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Volume 15
by Koyoharu Gotouge

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Tanjiro finally chases down the main body of the upper-rank demon Hantengu. However, dawn is approaching, and the rising sun is a threat to Nezuko. Tanjiro’s concern for his sister is a distraction from the focus he needs to fight Hantengu, and if he hesitates it could be the last mistake he ever makes. Elsewhere, Tamayo ponders the nature of Nezuko’s curse and how she could be so different from other demons.

Blue Exorcist Volume 24
by Kazue Kato

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

Rin bears witness to the fateful Blue Night when his mother, Yuri Egin, gave birth to both Rin and Yukio. Rin never wanted to see—or even know about—his birth, but now he has learned something about himself that he may need in the coming conflict. Meanwhile, aboard the airship Dominus Liminus, the Illuminati and Lucifer move forward with their plans to bring forth Satan and return the world to nothingness. Lucifer has welcomed Yukio as an ally, but Yukio has other ideas.

We Never Learn Volume 11
by Taishi Tsutsui

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

Fumino Furuhashi is truly gifted when it comes to literature, but not so great when it comes to the sciences… much to the disappointment of her father. Can they find common ground and repair their relationship before it’s too late?

Naruto: Naruto’s Story–Family Day (Novel)
by Shin Towada, Original Concept by Masashi Kishimoto

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Price: USA $10.99

To celebrate Family Day, Konohagakure’s new holiday, Naruto and his daughter Himawari are on the hunt for an elusive must-have item. Hinata wants to make the day memorable for her family, and even Sasuke makes special time with his daughter, Sarada, and his wife, Sakura. At the end of the day, will Family Day be a success?

Twin Star Exorcists Volume 19
by Yoshiaki Sukeno

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

The battle against Yuto rages on, but without Benio, Rokuro can’t access the power of the Twin Stars. Or can someone
replace her? Then, the ominous reason Yuto became a Kegare is revealed.

Jujutsu Kaisen Volume 5
by Gege Akutami

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

Everyone’s surprised (and not necessarily in a good way) when they find out Itadori survived, but there’s not time for a heartwarming reunion when Jujutsu High is in the midst of an intense competition with their rivals from Osak. But good sportsmanship doesn’t seem to be in the cards after the higherups plan to eliminate the Sukuna threat once and for all.

Black Clover Volume 22
by Yūki Tabata

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

With the help of the first Wizard King and the leader of the elves, Asta and Yuno now might have a chance against the Devil’s unlimited power. But in order to put an end to this long battle, the two young mages will have to show strength that they’ve never shown before.

One Piece Volume 94
by Eiichiro Oda

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

The Straw Hats’ adventures in the samurai kingdom of Wano keep getting crazier. And when they learn the horrible truth
about the Smile fruits, their fury explodes. Meanwhile, Luffy’s still stuck in the labor camp with a whole army trying
to kill him. Can he use this opportunity to get even stronger?

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Volume 9
Story by Masashi Kishimoto, Art by Mikio Ikemoto, Script by Ukyo Kodachi

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

The battle between Naruto and Delta heats up as Boruto watches on from the sidelines. But when Delta starts using some despicable tactics, the kids may be forced to join the fight. Naruto is strong, but can he fend off such a fearsome foe while protecting others?

The Promised Neverland Volume 16
Written by Kaiu Shirai, Art by Posuka Demizu

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

In order to locate the Seven Walls, Emma and Ray find themselves trapped in a mysterious world. Can they escape this labyrinth and make the promise that will finally bring peace to this world? Meanwhile, Norman has his own plans.

Samurai 8: The Tale of Hachimaru Volume 3
Written by Masashi Kishimoto, Art by Akira Okubo

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Hachimaru has survived the attack of the deadly assassin Ata, but he’s not out of danger just yet. When the moon starts
plummeting toward the planet, Hachimaru will have to use his master’s powerful technique in order to save everyone. But in order to save the entire galaxy, the other samurai keys will have to be found. What kinds of trouble await Hachimaru as he leaves his home for the first time?

SHOJO BEAT

Kaze Hikaru Volume 28
by Taeko Watanabe

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

Warfare between the Choshu and the Bakufu factions seems inevitable. Will Sei and the Shinsengumi be drawn into the hostilities as well? Meanwhile, Captain Harada Sanosuke’s first child is born in Kyoto. While the Shinsengumi members
are overjoyed, trouble arises when Sanosuke names the child.

Ao Haru Ride Volume 12
by Io Sakisaka

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Futaba Yoshioka has encountered her first love again in high school, but he seems different from the boy she once knew.
Kou no longer wants to hold back how he feels about Futaba. He’s determined to keep trying long as he has even a sliver of a chance with her. Meanwhile, Futaba has decided to be more honest in her relationship with Toma, but is her heart still in it?

Shortcake Cake Volume 9
by Suu Morishita

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Ten wants to know everything about the boy she likes, so she asks Shiraoka about Riku’s past. But the truth that lies hidden behind Riku’s smile is devastatingly painful.

Fushigi Yûgi: Byakko Senki Volume 1
by Yuu Watase

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

After the Great Kanto earthquake strikes, Suzuno and Takao are trapped in their burning home. Takao has only one chance
to save his young daughter, and that is to send her into The Universe of the Four Gods.

Yona of the Dawn Volume 25
by Mizuho Kusanagi

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Yona comes face-to-face with Su-won and tells him that waging war against the nation of Xing would be disastrous. Later, she rushes back to Princess Kouren, but assassins and more dangers await in Xing. Will the Four Dragons be able to protect Yona from all who threaten her life?

Oresama Teacher Volume 27
by Izumi Tsubaki

On Sale Date: August 4, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

It’s time for the Midorigaoka school festival, and rumors abound that Mr. Maki has some trouble planned for the event.
Mafuyu escapes from the Hanabusa mansion and heads to campus in her Natsuo disguise, while Takaomi welcomes a posse of Midorigaoka alumni and some of Mafuyu’s delinquents from Saitama. With the troops all assembled, the only thing left to do is wait for Mr. Maki to make his move.

VIZ MEDIA

Fullmetal Alchemist: Fullmetal Edition Volume 10
by Hiromu Arakawa

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $19.99

In an alchemical ritual gone wrong, Edward Elric lost his arm and his leg, and his brother Alphonse became nothing but a soul in a suit of armor. But before the Elrics’ personal tragedy, a bloody, unjust war caused suffering for many of their friends and allies.

Pokemon Adventures Collector’s Edition Volume 3
Written by Hidenori Kusaka, Art by MATO

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: All Ages
Price: USA $17.99

Trainer Amarillo del Bosque Verde, while on the hunt for the famous Pokemon Trainer, Red, continues to gather other
Trainers, Gym Leaders and even a few enemies to fight against the team known as the Elite Four. And rival Trainers Gold and Silver put aside their differences to battle Team Rocket.

Collects the original Pokemon Adventures Volumes 7, 8 & 9.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Volume 7
by Akira Himekawa

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

Link’s battle with his dark alter ego leaves him wounded and exhausted. With Midna gone and Link unable to harness the
power of the Master Sword, his quest seems doomed. Visions of a grizzled warrior also haunt his dreams, but who is it? And what can this warrior teach Link that he will need to defeat Ganondorf? Certainly Link will need the Master Sword again, but only a true hero can wield the power of that legendary weapon.

A Tropical Fish Yearns for Snow Volume 4
by Makoto Hagino

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

A sudden fever keeps Koyuki from participating at the Aquarium Club open house during the Nanahama High School culture festival. After a successful solo amberjack show, Konatsu stops by to wish Koyuki well and teasingly compares her to the salamander from a short story. Now Koyuki can’t stop thinking about how Konatsu once compared herself to the frog from that story. As school obligations keep them apart, Koyuki and Konatsu start to realize just how important they
are to each other.

Pokemon the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution
by Ryo Takamisaki

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: All Ages
Price: USA $9.99

Adventure explodes into action with the debut of Mewtwo, a bioengineered Pokémon created from the DNA of Mew, the rarest of all Pokemon. After escaping from the lab where it was created, Mewtwo is determined to prove its own superiority. It lures a number of talented Trainers into a Pokemon battle like no other—and of course, Ash and his friends are happy to accept the challenge.

Ash’s excitement turns to fear and anger when Mewtwo reveals its plan for domination, creating powerful clones of our heroes’ Pokemon so it can even the “imbalance” between Pokemon and their Trainers. Despite Ash’s protests, Mewtwo refuses to believe that Pokemon and people can be friends. But faced with the determination and loyalty of a young Trainer, Mewtwo just might live to reconsider… especially when pitted against the power of the mysterious Mew.

VIZ SIGNATURE

Blue Flag Volume 3
by KAITO

On Sale Date: August 18, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $12.99

Toma gets seriously hurt diving in front of a car to save Taichi, leaving Taichi racked with guilt over not only getting his best friend hurt, but also stealing Toma’s last chance at making the summer baseball tournament. Guilty, angry and hurt, the two boys clash in an emotionally raw argument. Futaba, worried about both of them, invites Taichi to a certain spot to hopefully cheer him up.

Urusei Yatsura Volume 7
by Rumiko Takahashi

On Sale Date: August 18, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $19.99

Princess Kurama the crow goblin is bound to marry the man who awakens her with a kiss—but please, let it be anyone but
Ataru. Hoping to replace Ataru with a different suitor, Kurama decides to return to her enchanted slumber. On a sunny
afternoon, her capsule descends toward Earth once more… but will she land the man she truly wants?

Ôoku: The Inner Chambers Volume 17
by Fumi Yoshinaga

On Sale Date: August 18, 2020
Age Rating: Mature
Price: USA $12.99

Prince Kazu is not the consort shogun Iemochi was expecting, but the young ruler is determined to make their relationship a good one. And despite her initial distaste for Edo and everything about it, Prince Kazu find herself warming to her spouse. But the world beyond the safety of the Inner Chambers is a cruel one, and the secret of their fragile marriage is under constant threat from of discovery.

Golden Kamuy Volume 17
by Satoru Noda

On Sale Date: August 18, 2020
Age Rating: Mature
Price: USA $12.99

While Sugimoto races north by dogsled, Asirpa crosses the border with Kiroranke into Russian territory. Kiroranke was
once involved in the assassination of the Russian Czar Alexander II, and the Russians, tipped off by Tsurumi that
Kiroranke was heading into their territory on Karafuto, have set an ambush at the border. The dark pasts of Asirpa’s
traveling companions are now coming to light, along with the secrets of her own father.

Venus in the Blind Spot
by Junji Ito

On Sale Date: August 18, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $22.99

This ultimate collection presents the most remarkable short works of Junji Ito’s career, featuring an adaptation of Rampo Edogawa’s classic horror story “Human Chair” and fan favorite “The Enigma of Amigara Fault.” In a deluxe
presentation with special color pages and color illustrations from his most recent long-form manga No Longer Human, every page invites readers to revel in a world of terror.

SHONEN SUNDAY

Komi Can’t Communicate Volume 8
by Tomohito Oda

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: Teen
Price: USA $9.99

It’s time for the school trip to Kyoto. Komi has never been on a school trip before, but she’s not worried. After all, she’ll have Tadano and her friends at her side. But then she’s assigned to be buddies with two girls she doesn’t even know who don’t seem very nice. Is Kyoto ruined, or will Komi be able to make new friends all on her own?

Hayate the Combat Butler Volume 36
by Kenjiro Hata

On Sale Date: August 11, 2020
Age Rating: Teen+
Price: USA $9.99

Ruka has thrown down the gauntlet. By confessing her feelings for Hayate and going in for a lip lock, the idol singer
turned manga artist puts our hero in danger of actually getting a girlfriend. To stop this unacceptable slackening of
romantic tension, Nagi makes an offer Ruka ca’’t refuse. Now Hayate’s fate rests on the outcome of a manga drawing
competition between the two aspiring artists. Does Hayate have any say on which girl he ends up with? Ha ha, of course
not.

FUNimation Entertainment Adds the Blue Exorcist, Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga, Durarara!!, and Durarara!!×2 Anime to Its Catalog

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

FUNimation Entertainment has announced that it will begin streaming the Blue Exorcist, Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga, Durarara!!, and Durarara!!×2 anime in English and in Japanese with English subtitles on February 11, 2020.

The first Blue Exorcist television anime series premiered in 2011. The anime debuted on Adult Swim’s Toonami block in February 2014.

The Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga anime premiered in Japan in January 2017, and Aniplex of America streamed the series on Crunchyroll and Daisuki.

The first Durarara!! anime premiered in January 2010, and it premiered on Adult Swim block in June 2011.

The Durarara!!×2 Ketsu (Conclusion) anime premiered in Japan in January 2016. Crunchyroll simulcast the series as it aired.

Source: ANN

14 Aniplex of America Releases to Go Out of Print

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

Aniplex of America has confirmed with Anime News Network that 14 of its releases will go out of print. Aniplex of America did not specify when the items will go out of print.

  • Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga Volume 1 Blu-ray Disc
  • Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga Volume 1 DVD
  • Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga Volume 2 Blu-ray Disc
  • Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga Volume 2 DVD
  • Charlotte Volume 1 Blu-ray Disc
  • Charlotte Volume 2 Blu-ray Disc
  • DRRR!! The Greatest Hits Sweet Strange Memories CD (Import)
  • DRRRWRAPPING!! DRRR!! Best CD/DVD (Import)
  • Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works Limited Edition Blu-ray Disc Box Set 1
  • Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works Limited Edition Blu-ray Disc Box Set 2
  • Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale OST CD (Import)
  • Utamonogatari: Monogatari Series Theme Song Compilation Album Limited Edition (Import)
  • WWW.WAGNARIA!! Volume 1 Blu-ray Disc
  • WWW.WAGNARIA!! Volume 2 Blu-ray Disc

Anime News Network also asked Aniplex of America about several of the other titles listed on Right Stuf as being out of print, and Aniplex of America responded that “certain items will be out of print, but not necessarily those titles.”

Source: ANN

My Hero Academia Takes 11 of the Top 20 Spots on the U.S. Monthly Bookscan October 2018 Manga List

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

The top 20 selling manga in the United States for October 2018, according to NPD Bookscan, are:

1. My Hero Academia Volume 15 by Kōhei Horikoshi
2. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Volume 2 by Hideyuki Furuhashi and Kōhei Horikoshi
3. My Hero Academia Volume 1 by Kōhei Horikoshi
4. My Hero Academia Volume 14 by Kōhei Horikoshi
5. Tokyo Ghoul:re Volume 7 by Sui Ishida
6. Berserk Official Guidebook by Kentarou Miura
7. My Hero Academia Volume 2 by Kōhei Horikoshi
8. Frankeinstein: Junji Ito Story Collection by Junji Ito
9. Bleach Volume 74 by Tite Kubo
10. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Volume 4 by Akira Himekawa
11. My Hero Academia Volume 3 by Kōhei Horikoshi
12. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Volume 1 by Hideyuki Furuhashi and Kōhei Horikoshi
13. My Hero Academia Volume 4 by Kōhei Horikoshi
14. My Hero Academia Volume 5 by Kōhei Horikoshi
15. My Hero Academia Volume 13 by Kōhei Horikoshi
16. Blue Exorcist Volume 20 by Kazue Katō
17. My Hero Academia Volume 6 by Kōhei Horikoshi
18. Tokyo Ghoul Volume 1 by Sui Ishida
19. The Promised Neverland Volume 6 by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu
20. Food Wars! Volume 26 by Yūto Tsukuda and Shun Saeki

Source: ANN

RWBY Manga Is #2 Selling Graphic Novel in the United States for January 2018

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

Nine manga appeared on NPD BookScan’s Top 20 selling graphic novels list for January 2018:

  • RWBY by Shirō Miwa (#2)
  • Dragon Ball Super Volume 2 by Toyotarō and Akira Toriyama (#5)
  • Tokyo Ghoul: re Volume 2 by Sui Ishida (#6)
  • My Hero Academia Volume 10 by Kōhei Horikoshi (#11)
  • My Hero Academia Volume 1 by Kōhei Horikoshi (#12)
  • Tokyo Ghoul:re Volume 1 by Sui Ishida (#13)
  • Attack on Titan Volume 23 by Hajime Isayama (#15)
  • Blue Exorcist Volume 18 by Kazue Katō (#17)
  • Shiver: Junji Ito Selected Stories by Junji Ito (#18)

Source: ANN

The Ancient Magus’ Bride Is Best Selling Manga for July 2017

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

Nielsen BookScan has released its list of the top 20 selling graphic novels for July 2017, and eleven manga titles have made the list:

  • The Ancient Magus’ Bride Volume 4 by Kore Yamazaki (#4)
  • The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up: A Magical Story by Marie Kondo (#5)
  • My Hero Academia Volume 1 by Kōhei Horikoshi (#6)
  • The Legend of Zelda: Legendary Edition Volume 5 by Akira Himekawa (#8)
  • Tokyo Ghoul Volume 1 by Sui Ishida (#9)
  • Tokyo Ghoul Volume 13 by Sui Ishida (#10)
  • Berserk Volume 38 by Kentarou Miura (#13)
  • Dragon Ball Super Volume 1 by Toyotarō and Akira Toriyama (#14)
  • My Hero Academia Volume 2 by Kōhei Horikoshi (#16)
  • My Hero Academia Volume 8 by Kōhei Horikoshi (#18)
  • Blue Exorcist Volume 17 by Kazue Kato (#19)

Source: ANN

Manga Review: Blue Exorcist Volume 14

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

Originally written for WatchPlayRead.com

Blue Exorcist Volume 14 focuses on Rin Okumura and his classmates, who are students at True Cross Academy training to become Exorcists. They are trying to rescue Izumo, who is in the hands of Professor Gedoin.

Blue Exorcist Volume 14
Written by: Kazue Kato
Publisher: Shueisha
English Publisher: VIZ Media
Release Date: January 5, 2016

Volume 14 continues with Rin and the others trying to fight against the zombies as they’re split up from each other. We get to see Shiemi and Ryuji fight against their respective zombies, but Ryuji receives more focus than Shiemi. The reason Ryuji’s fight takes longer is the fact that there are a couple of flashbacks included. As a reader, I appreciated the flashbacks because they helped to provide some more backstory for Ryuji. Also, it’s thanks to these flashbacks that Ryuji realizes what he needs to do in order to defeat the zombie. We don’t get to see any further zombie fights, though, because Rin uses a Satan Bomb to free everyone from their cages. But they’re not out of danger, since Professor Gedoin sends Shima out to face them.

Much of the rest of Blue Exorcist Volume 14 focuses on the confrontation with Shima as Gedoin is preparing to launch his experiment with Izumo. It all leads up to a very exciting climax for this particular story arc. Without providing spoilers, I will say that something very surprising happens that turns the tide of the final confrontation in the protagonists’ favor.

While Volume 14 provides some character development for Ryuji early on, the second half of the volume provides a lot of development for Izumo. I really liked how Kato intercut Izumo’s thoughts during the experiment, leading her to realize that she really does think of Rin and the others as her friends. This idea is reinforced to her as Rin and his classmates do whatever they can to try to save Izumo from Gedoin.

Even though the climax of this story arc takes place in Volume 14, it’s obvious from the way it ends that there are still some issues that will have to be resolved over the course of Volume 15. And I expect that Izumo and the aftermath of what has happened to her during this story arc will play an important role in the next volume.

Kato’s art style continues to captivate the reader. There’s just something about the way the characters are drawn that grabs the reader’s attention. Kato’s style is instantly recognizable, and I have as of yet to see any other manga artist come close to replicating it. I also have to admit that for the art, this particular volume also includes a couple of impressive looking explosions.

Readers who follow and enjoy the series will definitely want to read Blue Exorcist Volume 14. There’s plenty of action, and the story arc takes a major step forward by the end of it. Fans of Blue Exorcist will not want to miss this volume, because they’ll want to find out what happens to Izumo, Rin, and the others.

The reviewer was provided a review copy by VIZ Media

Additional post about Blue Exorcist:

Review: Weekly Shonen Jump (October 5, 2015)

Posted on by Lesley Aeschliman

This issue includes chapters for One Piece, Blue Exorcist, Black Clover, World Trigger, My Hero Academia, Toriko, Nisekoi: False Love, Samon the Summoner, Bleach, Food Wars!, and Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign. This issue also includes Naruto being featured for the “Jump Back” initiative, but this time focusing on the first four chapters of Volume 28 (which is set at the end of the two year timeskip).

I’m providing my reactions and impressions for each manga title that appears in the volume. However, be warned that this post may potentially contain spoilers.

I only started reading Weekly Shonen Jump back in late February/early March of 2014, which means there’s a number of series published in the magazine that I jumped in the middle of. Since then, I’ve been able to start reading older chapters of some of the titles, but I haven’t managed to do this for all of the titles yet. Because of this, there may be times I might inadvertently include incorrect information in the write-ups. If you see something in a write-up that’s incorrect due to my having not read earlier chapters of a series, please feel free to leave a comment and let me know. Not only can I correct the incorrect information in the write-up, it will also help provide information for me to have when reading future chapters of a series in Weekly Shonen Jump.

Of course, you can always check out Weekly Shonen Jump for yourself by subscribing to the digital publication at VIZManga.com.

One Piece CH:802

First, we see Luffy and the others freaking out about huge hail coming down, and coming to the realization that they don’t have a navigator. Oops! Then we meet Edward Weevil, who claims to be the son of Whitebeard, and his mother, who claims to be Whitebeard’s lover. They appear to have just learned about Doflamingo’s defeat. I’m not quite sure how these two fit into the story, but considering I jumped into Weekly Shonen Jump in the middle of the Dressrosa arc last year, that’s not terribly surprising. A new island called Zou is revealed, and it has an… interesting location. It’s going to be interesting to see how Oda pulls off the story line with Zou. I mean, sure, he had a sky island before, but this is something completely different…

Blue Exorcist CH:072

Rin and a couple of the others lament how Bon is now working so hard for Lightning that he can’t help them with their studies. But then they talk about what potential paths they might want to take. The story then returns to Yukio as he continues to try to figure out how he can become stronger. He takes a drastic step to try to awaken his ability, but it looks like it might not work. The chapter ends on a cliffhanger, so we won’t know whether Yukio succeeds or not until next month.

Black Clover CH:032

It looks like Rades is going to be defeated, and an interesting tidbit is revealed about him when his Grimoire is confiscated. But it turns out Rades’ and his group’s real objective was to capture Fergoleon Vermillion, and it appears that plan succeeds. So while it appears to still be a revenge plot, there was more to it than Rades let on in the previous chapter. I don’t know if it’s just me, but this particular story arc just hasn’t been terribly interesting. Oh well. I don’t have much but to continue with it until it’s finished.

World Trigger CH:117

It appears that the story is being set up for another Neighbor invasion to potentially take place, and this chapter spends a lot of time focusing on an Emergency Response meeting where Border bigwigs and higher ranking Border agents discuss what could happen and what they’re going to do. Meanwhile, Osamu is coming to a realization as to what he needs to do going forward for the B-Rank Wars. But Yotaro seems to have figured out who Jin was referring to in the previous chapter, and I admit it’s someone I wouldn’t have guessed. It sounds like this person isn’t interested in helping Osamu out, but things could change. And it would be quite an interesting development if they do.

My Hero Academia CH:061

We get to see what the matchups for the upcoming practical exam are, as well as All Might’s flashback concerning some of the decisions made on who to team up. Some time is spent expliainig the practical exam before it actually starts. As the exam gets underway, the story jumps around the various locations just as attacks start happening. But then the focus changes to Midoriya and Bakugo not off to a good start. That’s not surprising, considering that they don’t get along with each other. Their story is just getting going when the chapter ends. Hopefully next chapter will continue to focus on Midoriya and Bakugo, and not jump around much. Or if it does jump around, that it doesn’t do so as much as One Piece did during the Dressrosa arc.

Toriko CH:341

This chapter introduces us to Acacia’s Demon A. We get to see A going up against Bambina. Then the other members of the Eight Kings and the Full-Course Meal appear to take on other demons that have appeared in the Gourmet World. Most of the chapter focuses on narration of what’s happening with all of this, with only a minimal amount of action. But right at the end of the chapter, we see Toriko reacting. Overall, this was such an exposition heavy chapter that it was rather boring to read. Hopefully the next chapter will be more exciting.

Nisekoi: False Love CH:188

Raku shares his idea for helping Marika with the others. There’s an argument about some of the particulars, but after that’s worked out, we see that Shinohara has made arrangements for the two who weren’t captured to get inside the castle. Shinohara then lays out the plan for how they’re going to accomplish their goal. This story seems to be building up to something, but I can’t predict where Raku and the others will succeed or not. I’m very curious to see what Komi will do, and I hope it’ll turn out to be interesting and impressive.

Samon the Summoner CH:003

Samon is approached by one of his and Sakura’s classmates, who witnessed Samon summon a demon. This classmate now wants to borrow the power of the demons. Samon happily obliges. It ends up becoming a chaotic story, and Sakura tries her best to save their classmate.

This was probably the best of the three chapters that I read of Samon the Summoner, but I’m still not entirely sold on this series. About the only way I’d be continuing it at this point is if the English Weekly Shonen Jump decided to publish more of it in the future. But to be honest, I don’t see that happening anytime soon.

Bleach CH:645

Kyoraku explains what he does with the Zanpakuto to the Quincy. This is primarily a chapter of exposition, but then action takes place right near the end. But what action did happen was simply there to help illustrated Kyoraku’s explanations. Hopefully this chapter got the exposition out of the way, and that some real action will take place next week.

Food Wars! CH:137

Erina’s father is still acting like such an asshole in this chapter. But we see Hisako, Alice, and some others busting Erina out of her family’s mansion. They succeed, but after realizing they don’t have a plan, decides to go home. But at the end of the chapter, it’s revealed that they’re right behind Polaris Dorm. As I was reading this chapter, I had a feeling that Erina would somehow end up at Polaris. Now the question is, will she try to stay there to defy her father?

Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign CH:038

When Shinoa and the others make it to the rendezvous point, and Rika comes running up and blaming her for all the deaths that have occurred because she protected Mika. But as others arrive, arguments begin breaking out. But as the truth about the mission is revealed, tempers flare even more. Shinya Hiragi is bombarded with a ton of questions, which is understandable considering the situation. He makes the decision to abandon the plan and devise a strategy to rescue Guren. We also get to see what’s going on with Guren while he’s in captivity. And something that Guren says right at the end of the chapter seems to pique the vampires’ interest. It looks Guren’s plan might be succeeding, and hopefully we’ll find out in next month’s chapter whether or not it does.

Naruto CH:245

The new “Jump Back” initiative features the first four chapters of Naruto Volume 28, which is set after the two year timeskip that Naruto was away from the village training with Jiraiya. Naruto is being featured again so soon to celebrate Masashi Kishimoto’s appearance at New York Comic Con. This chapter sees Naruto’s return to Konoha and encountering Kakashi and Sakura. The stage is set for the two of them to try to do the bell test with Kakashi again. Basically, this chapter was here to establish Naruto’s return and the fact that he, Sakura, and Kakashi will be on a team as equals rather than as master and student. The next chapter should be more action-oriented with the bell test.

Additional reviews of Weekly Shonen Jump: