Exciting New Viz Manga and Novel Releases Scheduled for April
April is shaping up to be an exciting month for fans of manga, thanks to the latest offerings from Viz Media. Known for bringing some of Japan’s most beloved titles to North America, Viz Manga will launch a variety of new volumes, including both fresh series and ongoing favorites. This article dives into the details of anticipated releases, including the captivating stories that await readers in the upcoming weeks.
Pink Candy Kiss Vol. 1
Kicking off the month of April is the debut volume of Pink Candy Kiss, originally titled Tsumetakute Yawaraka in Japan. This series, crafted by the talented Ami Uozumi, explores the complex emotions of love and friendship as it follows two school friends who reconnect after two decades apart. The narrative centers around Takara, a woman whose recent breakup leaves her feeling adrift. In a twist of fate, she encounters Ema, a once-shy friend from middle school who is now married and running a bakery.
Their reunion is filled with warmth and nostalgia, yet it quickly becomes complicated as Takara recalls the reason for their past estrangement—her attempt to kiss Ema. This moment of reflection leads Takara to confront her long-buried feelings, making it difficult for her to navigate her emotions. The struggle of realizing her attraction to a woman, compounded by the fact that Ema is happily married, adds layers of tension to the narrative. Uozumi’s artwork enhances the storytelling, presenting readers with visually striking illustrations that complement the emotional depth of the story. As a refreshing take on romantic narratives featuring women in their 30s, Pink Candy Kiss promises to engage readers well beyond its opening volume. This anticipated release is scheduled to hit the shelves on April 1.
The Climber, Vol. 1
For those who enjoy sports-themed manga, The Climber presents a unique take on the genre by delving into the world of solo climbing. This engaging series narrates the journey of Buntaro Mori, a solitary student whose life takes a dramatic turn following a dare from a new classmate. What begins as a light-hearted challenge soon spirals into an all-consuming passion for climbing. Mori’s adventure starts with scaling the school building and evolves into tackling the formidable local cliffs.
Recognizing Mori’s innate talent, his teachers encourage him to join a climbing club, aiming to provide him with guidance and support. However, Mori’s journey is not without its challenges; he grapples with unresolved grief stemming from a tragic incident in his past. The Climber is adapted from Jiro Nitta’s two-volume novel published in 1973, bringing a contemporary twist to the story. Even readers unfamiliar with the nuances of solo climbing will find themselves engrossed, as the manga offers insights into the sport while showcasing Mori’s extraordinary skills. With over 400 pages of captivating illustrations and a rich storyline, this first volume invites readers to embark on an exhilarating adventure. Look for The Climber Vol. 1 to be available starting April 15.
One Piece: Heroines, Vol. 1
In addition to manga, Viz Media is also releasing light novels, including the much-anticipated One Piece: Heroines. This collection features a series of short stories that provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of the iconic female characters from the legendary One Piece series. Volume 1 focuses on several beloved heroines, including Nami, Robin, Vivi, and Perona, each navigating their own unique challenges and experiences.
In this volume, readers follow Nami as she works on mending relationships and shopping for new shoes, while Robin deciphers an ancient tablet. Meanwhile, Vivi finds herself on the receiving end of an anonymous love letter, and Perona is engaged in a humorous quest to create the ultimate sangria. These light-hearted narratives serve to deepen readers’ understanding of the characters, making them accessible even to those who may not be avid followers of the One Piece saga. Among the stories, Nami’s tale stands out as particularly compelling, with Perona’s amusing escapades coming in a close second. Jun Esaka’s engaging writing style and Sayaka Suwa’s delightful illustrations create an enjoyable reading experience that fans of the franchise will appreciate. One Piece: Heroines Vol. 1 is slated for release on April 22.
What to Expect from April’s Releases
As April approaches, readers can anticipate a diverse array of stories that span various genres and themes. From the heartfelt exploration of rekindled friendships in Pink Candy Kiss to the thrilling adventures of solo climbing in The Climber, and the charming escapades of female characters in One Piece: Heroines, there’s something for everyone. Each title brings a unique perspective, contributing to the ever-expanding world of manga and light novels.
The combination of compelling narratives and beautifully crafted art makes these upcoming releases must-reads for manga enthusiasts. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, April’s offerings from Viz Manga promise to deliver engaging stories that resonate with readers of all ages.
With the anticipation building for these new titles, make sure to mark your calendars and prepare to dive into the fantastic worlds created by these talented authors and artists. As the manga landscape continues to evolve, these releases are sure to captivate and inspire readers as they embark on new adventures through the pages of these exciting stories.
