Natsuki Takaya, the renowned manga artist best known for creating the beloved series Fruits Basket, has launched a new manga titled In Such a Small World. This new romantic series began its publication on Manga Park in September 2023 and has already garnered attention from fans eager for Takaya’s signature storytelling.
A New Chapter Begins
Following the immense success of Fruits Basket and its various adaptations, including the more recent Fruits Basket Another, Takaya’s latest work, In Such a Small World (Japanese title: Kakumo Chiisaki Sekai ni te), offers a fresh narrative centered around the budding romance between two neighbors. This marks Takaya’s first major work unrelated to Fruits Basket since Liselotte & Witch’s Forest in 2011, making it a highly anticipated release for her dedicated fanbase.
The Story Unfolds
In Such a Small World introduces readers to Sui Onodera, a 23-year-old who has recently moved into her own apartment. One day, her quiet life takes an unexpected turn when her neighbor, Kaoru Seto, bursts in, explaining that his dog, Tino, has somehow wandered onto her balcony. This chance encounter leads to Kaoru gradually becoming a part of Sui’s life, setting the stage for a heartwarming and relatable romance.
Takaya initially planned for the manga to span ten chapters, promising a concise yet engaging story. In Such a Small World began serialization on Hakusensha’s Manga Park website and app, providing fans with easy access to the developing romance.
The Legacy of Fruits Basket
Before diving into Takaya’s new project, it’s essential to understand the legacy of her most celebrated work, Fruits Basket. Serialized in Hakusensha’s Hana to Yume magazine from 1998 to 2006, Fruits Basket captivated readers with its unique blend of romance, comedy, and supernatural elements.
The story revolves around Tohru Honda, a high school student who, after a family tragedy, finds herself living in a tent. Unbeknownst to her, the land she’s camping on belongs to the Sohma family, who harbor a deep secret: twelve members of the family are possessed by the animals of the Chinese zodiac, transforming into their respective animal when hugged by someone of the opposite sex or under significant stress.
Themes and Impact
Fruits Basket explores themes of family, trauma, healing, and acceptance. Tohru’s unwavering optimism and kindness serve as a catalyst for the Sohma family to confront their emotional wounds and break free from their curse. The series resonated with readers worldwide, leading to numerous accolades, including the 2001 Kodansha Manga Award.
Anime Adaptations
The popularity of Fruits Basket led to two anime adaptations. The first, produced by Studio DEEN in 2001, covered the initial volumes of the manga. A second, more comprehensive adaptation by TMS Entertainment, aired from 2019 to 2021, faithfully adapting the entire storyline. This reboot was highly praised for its animation quality, voice acting, and emotional depth, reintroducing the series to a new generation of fans.
Fruits Basket Another
In addition to the main series, Takaya also created a sequel manga titled Fruits Basket Another. This series, which ran from 2015 to 2022, follows a new protagonist, Sawa Mitoma, as she navigates her own challenges and encounters the next generation of the Sohma family. Fruits Basket Another delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the lasting impact of the zodiac curse.
Takaya’s Artistic Journey
Natsuki Takaya, born Nana Hatake on July 7, 1973, in Tokyo, Japan, has been passionate about manga since childhood. She made her debut as a manga artist in 1992 and has since created several notable works. Fruits Basket remains her most successful series, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in the shojo manga genre.
Other Works
While Fruits Basket is her most well-known creation, Takaya has also penned other manga series, including:
- Twinkle Stars
- Liselotte & Witch’s Forest: Published in 2011, this series preceded In Such a Small World as Takaya’s most recent major work outside the Fruits Basket universe.
Artistic Style and Influences
Takaya’s art style is characterized by its delicate linework, expressive characters, and attention to detail. Her storytelling often incorporates humor, heartfelt moments, and poignant reflections on human relationships. She draws inspiration from various sources, including personal experiences, literature, and mythology, creating narratives that are both engaging and thought-provoking.
What to Expect from In Such a Small World
Given Takaya’s track record, fans can anticipate that In Such a Small World will deliver a compelling romance with well-developed characters and emotionally resonant themes. While the premise is simple, the series has the potential to explore deeper issues related to connection, personal growth, and the complexities of modern relationships.
Initial Impressions
Early summaries and previews of In Such a Small World highlight the charming dynamic between Sui and Kaoru. Their initial encounter, sparked by a runaway dog, sets the stage for an organic and believable relationship to develop. The age gap between the characters (Sui being 23 and Kaoru being 21) may also introduce interesting dynamics, as they navigate different stages of early adulthood.
Themes to Explore
In Such a Small World could potentially explore themes such as:
- Finding Connection in Unexpected Places: The story emphasizes how chance encounters can lead to meaningful relationships.
- Overcoming Loneliness: Sui’s decision to live alone in an apartment suggests a desire for independence, but also hints at potential loneliness. Kaoru’s presence could help her find companionship and a sense of belonging.
- The Importance of Small Gestures: The simple act of retrieving a dog from a balcony becomes the catalyst for a significant relationship, highlighting how small gestures can have a profound impact.
- The Comfort of Shared Experiences: As Sui and Kaoru navigate their daily lives, they may find comfort and support in sharing their experiences with each other.
Where to Read
In Such a Small World is currently available on Manga Park. As of now, there’s no official announcement regarding an English translation. However, given the international popularity of Takaya’s works, it is highly likely that Yen Press, which has published many of her previous manga in English, will eventually license the series for English-speaking audiences.
Conclusion
Natsuki Takaya’s In Such a Small World promises to be a delightful addition to the romance manga landscape. With its charming premise, relatable characters, and Takaya’s signature storytelling, the series is poised to capture the hearts of Fruits Basket fans and new readers alike. While the series may have concluded its run, the impact and enjoyment it brought to readers remains. As fans eagerly await news of a potential English translation, they can look forward to another heartwarming and thought-provoking series from one of the most beloved creators in the genre.
