Manga artist ippatu, known for the recently concluded Tsugumi Project, is set to launch a new manga titled Shōjōhime (Monkey Princess) on Kodansha’s YanMaga website on December 22. The upcoming series is described as an action romance story that offers a fresh interpretation of the classic Chinese tale, Journey to the West.
From Post-Apocalyptic Thriller to Action Romance
ippatu gained recognition for Tsugumi Project (also known as Tora Tsugumi: Tsugumi Project), a post-apocalyptic action manga that captivated readers with its unique blend of art styles and intricate world-building. The series, which initially debuted in France in 2019 before its serialization in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine from January 2021 to September 2023, followed a soldier named Leon on a perilous mission in a mutated, irradiated Japan. With Tsugumi Project having concluded its run with seven compiled volumes, the announcement of Shōjōhime signals a new creative direction for the artist.
The Legacy of Tsugumi Project
Tsugumi Project garnered acclaim for its realistic artwork and charismatic characters, with critics favorably comparing its visuals to artists like Keisuke Itagaki. It also ranked 20th in the 2022 edition of the Kono Manga ga Sugoi! guidebook for top manga among male readers. The series’ narrative focused on a death-row convict’s quest for freedom by retrieving a mysterious weapon in a Japan devastated by nuclear war and overrun by monsters. Kodansha USA Publishing licensed the series for English publication, releasing its volumes throughout 2023.
Shōjōhime: A New Interpretation of a Classic
The upcoming Shōjōhime is poised to explore the rich mythology of Journey to the West through ippatu’s distinctive artistic lens. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the description as an “action romance story” suggests a blend of dynamic sequences and compelling character relationships, a departure from the grittier survival themes of Tsugumi Project. Fans will be eager to see how ippatu re-envisions characters and events from the classic Chinese novel.
What to Expect from the Launch
The new manga will be available on Kodansha’s YanMaga website, making it accessible to a wide audience upon its debut on December 22. This launch marks an exciting moment for fans of ippatu’s work and those interested in fresh takes on beloved classic literature.
