Glacier Bay Books has announced its upcoming English release of Konomi Oumi’s captivating manga collection, Universe From the Balcony (Veranda kara Uchū), slated for later this year. This eagerly anticipated volume compiles eight distinct stories by the acclaimed indie manga artist, offering readers a profound journey through Oumi’s unique narrative landscape.
The publisher describes Universe From the Balcony as a “mind-expanding panorama” of tales designed to inspire and enchant. Among the evocative concepts explored within the collection are ethereal beings traversing the cosmos, the subtle aroma of a goldfish bowl, the silent presence of plant spirits, narratives of impossible love, and even the plight of a mermaid who has lost her ability to swim. The compilation will span approximately 180 pages, showcasing Oumi’s signature “quiet, vividly beautiful stories,” lauded for their meticulous construction that evokes the serendipitous discovery of seashells along a shoreline.
Konomi Oumi is recognized for her contributions to Japan’s independent manga scene, and this forthcoming release marks another significant English-language offering from Glacier Bay Books. The publisher has previously released Oumi’s debut English collection, From This Flame, which gathered eight short stories delving into mythical wellsprings and imagining post-mythological worlds. Critics have praised From This Flame as a “unique, artistically daring… collection of haunting, delicate modern fairy tales,” drawing comparisons to short art films. Oumi’s work also appears in Glacier Bay Books’ Glaeolia indie manga anthology series.
