Kodama Tales, a U.S.-based manga publisher and subsidiary of Kyodo Printing Co., has officially announced the acquisition of the English-language license for Hiroki Miyashita’s popular “Me and the Alien Mumu” (Uchūjin Mūmū) manga series. The first volume is slated to hit shelves on February 1, 2026, marking another significant title for the relatively new publisher.
Expanding Their Catalog with a “Super Mystery Comedy”
The licensing of “Me and the Alien Mumu” diversifies Kodama Tales’ growing portfolio, which also includes titles like Mitei Hattori’s Smile! and Keisuke Itagaki’s Baki The Grappler. The announcement was made recently, with pre-orders for the first volume already available through retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
The Story of Mumu and Sakurako
“Me and the Alien Mumu” is described as a unique blend of science fiction and surreal comedy. The story revolves around an alien named Mumu, a lone survivor of a devastating civil war that wiped out all the scientists on his home planet, leaving only the “fools” behind. In a bid to comprehend the advanced technology left by his ancestors, Mumu infiltrates Earth, a planet with a seemingly lower level of civilization, with the peculiar goal of studying “home appliances,” which he believes hold the key to all technological knowledge. His mission takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Sakurako, a university freshman who becomes his reluctant accomplice in navigating a wild and exciting campus life while he pursues his unusual research.
Manga’s Origins and Growing Popularity
Hiroki Miyashita initially launched “Me and the Alien Mumu” as a one-shot story in Shonengahosha’s Young King Ours magazine in April 2019. Due to its positive reception, it quickly transitioned into a serialized series in the same magazine just two months later, in June 2019. As of April 2025, the series has accumulated eight compiled book volumes in Japan, a testament to its sustained popularity.
The series’ appeal has also extended beyond manga, with a television anime adaptation produced by OLM premiering in April 2025. The anime’s second “cours,” or quarter of the year, then premiered in July 2025, further boosting the franchise’s global recognition.
Kodama Tales’ Vision for Quality Releases
Kodama Tales, established in the United States, emphasizes a commitment to bringing high-quality, officially licensed Japanese manga to a global audience. The publisher distinguishes itself by printing its books in Japan, maintaining the original format, including dust jackets and obi strips, to provide an authentic reading experience. Their focus is on “bold, genre-defining titles with lasting cultural influence,” aiming to highlight unique stories. This dedication to craftsmanship and respect for creators underpins their relationships with Japanese publishers.
