Abi Umeda, the acclaimed manga artist behind the popular series Children of the Whales, has revealed plans for a brand-new manga project. Fans can anticipate the launch of Jami Jami (Wicked Life, Wicked Soul) in May 2025. The series promises a dark fantasy narrative filled with strange monsters and beast people, marking a new direction for the beloved creator.
Abi Umeda’s New Dark Fantasy: Jami Jami (Wicked Life, Wicked Soul)
Umeda shared the announcement on her X (formerly Twitter) account, exciting fans with the prospect of a new series. Jami Jami (Wicked Life, Wicked Soul) will be serialized in Hakusensha’s Young Animal Zero magazine and on the Young Animal Web manga website starting May 9, 2025.
A Departure from Children of the Whales?
While Children of the Whales explored themes of dystopia and science fantasy within a unique setting, Jami Jami appears to be diving headfirst into the dark fantasy genre. This shift could showcase Umeda’s versatility as a storyteller and artist, appealing to both existing fans and new readers interested in darker, monster-filled narratives.
Abi Umeda: A Retrospective
Before diving into the anticipation for Jami Jami, let’s take a look at Umeda’s previous work and the impact it has had on the manga and anime community.
Children of the Whales: A Beloved Series
Umeda’s most well-known work, Children of the Whales (Kujira no Kora wa Sajō ni Utau), ran in Akita Shoten’s Monthly Mystery Bonita magazine from June 2013 to January 2023. The series captivated readers with its unique world, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes.
- Synopsis: Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Children of the Whales follows the inhabitants of the Mud Whale, a floating island adrift on a sea of sand. The story centers on Chakuro, a young archivist, and his encounters with the outside world, challenging the isolated society of the Mud Whale.
- Anime Adaptation: The manga’s popularity led to a television anime adaptation in October 2017, which was later released globally on Netflix in March 2018, introducing the series to a wider audience.
- Critical Acclaim: Children of the Whales was praised for its stunning visuals, intricate world-building, and emotional storytelling, solidifying Umeda’s reputation as a talented manga creator.
- English Release: Viz Media licensed the manga in North America, making it accessible to English-speaking readers. The 23rd and final volume was released in English in February 2024.
Other Works by Abi Umeda
While Children of the Whales remains Umeda’s most prominent work, she has also created other manga, including short story collections and spin-offs:
- Kujira no Kora wa Sajō ni Manabu!: A comedy spin-off of Children of the Whales, serialized in Monthly Mystery Bonita from April 2018 to June 2021.
- Hadashi de, Sora wo Tsukamu You ni: Umeda Abi Tanpenshuu: A collection of short stories showcasing Umeda’s diverse storytelling abilities.
What to Expect from Jami Jami
With Jami Jami, Abi Umeda is venturing into new territory, promising a darker and more fantastical experience. Here’s what fans can anticipate:
- Dark Fantasy Setting: Expect a world filled with eerie creatures, unsettling atmosphere, and potentially mature themes.
- Strange Monsters and Beast People: This element suggests a focus on character design and world-building, with unique and imaginative creatures populating the manga.
- Potential for Complex Themes: Given Umeda’s track record, Jami Jami will likely explore deeper themes beneath the surface of its dark fantasy setting.
The Impact of Abi Umeda’s Work
Abi Umeda’s work has left a significant mark on the manga and anime landscape. Children of the Whales resonated with audiences worldwide due to its:
- Unique World-Building: The concept of the Mud Whale and its isolated society is both captivating and thought-provoking.
- Emotional Storytelling: Umeda’s ability to create relatable characters and explore complex emotions has resonated with readers and viewers alike.
- Stunning Visuals: Her art style is distinctive and evocative, bringing the world of her stories to life with incredible detail.
The Future is Bright for Abi Umeda
As Abi Umeda embarks on this new chapter with Jami Jami (Wicked Life, Wicked Soul), fans eagerly await the opportunity to delve into her latest creation. With her established talent for world-building, character development, and emotional storytelling, Umeda is poised to deliver another captivating manga series that will leave a lasting impact on the industry. The manga creator’s exploration of darker themes promises to expand her creative horizons and attract a wide range of readers and fans.
