Natsuki Takaya, the acclaimed manga artist best known for her beloved series Fruits Basket, has concluded her latest manga series, Kakumo Chiisaki Sekai Nite (In Such a Small World). The romance manga, which revolves around the lives of two neighbors, launched in September 2023 and recently published its final chapter on June 9, 2025.
A Small World Romance
In Such a Small World centers on the budding relationship between Sui Onodera, a 23-year-old living independently in an apartment, and her neighbor, Kaoru Seto. Their connection begins in an unexpected way, when Kaoru’s dog, Tino, mistakenly wanders onto Sui’s balcony. This chance encounter leads to Kaoru gradually becoming a part of Sui’s life, and their story unfolds within the confines of their close proximity.
Takaya’s First Work Outside Fruits Basket in Years
This manga marks Takaya’s first venture outside the Fruits Basket universe since Liselotte & Witch’s Forest, which began in 2011. While Liselotte & Witch’s Forest went on hiatus in December 2013, In Such a Small World offered fans a new romance story with Takaya’s signature touch.
Manga Details
In Such a Small World was serialized on Hakusensha’s Manga Park website and app. Takaya initially planned for the series to run for 10 chapters but ultimately extended it to 11, excluding the prologue and epilogue chapters. The two compiled book volumes of the manga are scheduled to be released in the fall of 2025.
Natsuki Takaya: A Manga Luminary
Natsuki Takaya is a celebrated figure in the world of manga, primarily known for her captivating storytelling and emotionally resonant characters. Her most famous work, Fruits Basket, has garnered international acclaim and remains a beloved series for many.
Fruits Basket: A Lasting Legacy
Fruits Basket, serialized in Hana to Yume magazine from 1998 to 2006, tells the story of Tohru Honda, a high school student who, after a family tragedy, begins living in a tent on the property of the Sohma family. She soon discovers that the Sohmas are afflicted by a curse that causes them to transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite sex or when they are under stress. Tohru’s arrival brings warmth and change to the lives of the Sohma family members as she befriends them and helps them confront their emotional wounds.
Adaptations and Spin-offs
The Fruits Basket manga has been adapted into two separate anime series. The first adaptation was released in 2001, while a second, more comprehensive adaptation by TMS Entertainment aired from 2019 to 2021, covering the entire storyline of the manga. The franchise also includes a sequel manga, Fruits Basket Another, which focuses on the next generation, as well as a prequel film, Fruits Basket -prelude-, which explores the relationship between Tohru’s parents.
Awards and Recognition
Fruits Basket has received numerous accolades, including the 2001 Kodansha Manga Award and the Best Manga Award at the 2007 American Anime Awards, solidifying Takaya’s position as a prominent figure in the manga industry.
What’s Next for Natsuki Takaya?
With the conclusion of In Such a Small World, fans eagerly await news about Natsuki Takaya’s next project. Given her track record of creating compelling and emotionally rich stories, her future works are sure to be highly anticipated.
