Jaku Amano’s manga, A-DO, is taking a brief hiatus before diving into its highly anticipated “final series.” Here’s everything fans need to know about the manga’s return and what to expect from its concluding arc.
A-DO’s Break and Return
The May issue of Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine announced on Monday, April 21, 2025, that A-DO will be going on a one-month break. The manga is set to return in the magazine’s July issue, which will be released in June, marking the start of its “final series.”
What is A-DO About?
A-DO is set in a near-future Japan that has experienced a significant wave of immigration, leading to a mix of cultures and social tensions. The story follows Riko, a spirited young woman who often switches jobs. One day, while driving her scooter through a protest, she saves a boy named Eito from being hit by a truck.
Riko takes Eito under her wing, but their ordinary outing takes a dramatic turn when Eito is targeted by an army sniper. As a bullet flies toward him, plant-like tendrils emerge from Eito’s arm, stopping the projectile mid-air. This event catapults Riko into a world of mystery, as she tries to uncover who Eito really is and why the army is after him.
Publication History
Jaku Amano launched the A-DO manga in Monthly Young Magazine in June 2019. As of November 2024, Kodansha has published 10 compiled book volumes of the manga. Kodansha USA Publishing is also releasing the manga in English, with the seventh volume released on March 4, 2025.
Where to Read
For those eager to follow Riko and Eito’s journey, A-DO is available in English through Kodansha USA Publishing. New readers can catch up on the previous volumes to prepare for the final series, while longtime fans can look forward to the release of the next volume.
Hiatus in Manga: A Common Occurrence
A-DO’s upcoming hiatus is not an isolated incident in the manga industry. Many manga series go on hiatus for various reasons, including the author’s health, research needs, or to work on other projects. While hiatuses can be frustrating for readers, they are often necessary to ensure the quality and continuation of the series.
Reasons for Manga Hiatuses
- Author’s Health: Mangakas often work under intense pressure and tight deadlines, which can take a toll on their physical and mental health. Hiatuses due to health issues are common and allow authors to recover and return to work in better condition.
- Research: Some manga series, especially those with intricate plots or detailed settings, require extensive research. Authors may take hiatuses to gather information, visit locations, or consult with experts to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
- Other Projects: Mangakas may also take breaks from one series to work on other projects, such as spin-offs, adaptations, or new manga ideas. This allows them to diversify their work and explore different creative avenues.
Famous Manga Hiatuses
Several well-known manga series have experienced hiatuses, some of which have lasted for extended periods. Here are a few examples:
- Hunter x Hunter: Yoshihiro Togashi’s popular series has been on numerous hiatuses since its debut in 1998, primarily due to the author’s health issues. Despite the long breaks, the series maintains a dedicated fanbase that eagerly awaits each new chapter.
- Berserk: Kentaro Miura’s dark fantasy manga was known for its irregular release schedule. After Miura’s passing in 2021, the series was continued by his assistants under the supervision of Kouji Mori, ensuring that the story reaches its intended conclusion.
- Vagabond: Takehiko Inoue’s historical manga has been on hiatus since 2015. While there is no official confirmation of its return, fans remain hopeful that the series will eventually be completed.
The Impact of Hiatuses on Fans
Manga hiatuses can have a significant impact on fans, who may experience frustration, disappointment, or concern for the author’s well-being. However, many fans also understand the reasons behind hiatuses and support the author’s decision to prioritize their health or creative process.
The Final Series: What to Expect
With A-DO entering its “final series,” fans can anticipate a thrilling conclusion to the story. Here are some potential developments to look forward to:
Resolution of the Main Plot
The final series will likely focus on resolving the central mysteries surrounding Eito’s identity and the army’s pursuit of him. Readers can expect answers to questions about Eito’s powers, his past, and his ultimate purpose.
Character Development
As the story progresses, Riko and Eito will likely undergo further character development. Riko’s journey from a carefree job-hopper to a determined protector will be explored, while Eito’s growth from a mysterious boy to a confident individual will be a key focus.
High-Stakes Action
The final series is expected to feature intense action sequences as Riko and Eito confront their enemies and fight to protect themselves and their loved ones. The battles will likely be filled with suspense, drama, and emotional moments.
Emotional Moments
In addition to action, the final series will also delve into the emotional connections between the characters. The relationships between Riko, Eito, and other supporting characters will be tested, leading to heartfelt moments and potentially tragic sacrifices.
Satisfying Conclusion
Ultimately, fans can hope for a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends, resolves the main conflicts, and provides closure for the characters. The ending should be both emotionally resonant and thematically consistent with the overall story.
What Makes a Good Manga?
- Compelling Story: A great manga needs a story that grabs the reader from the first page and keeps them hooked until the end.
- Relatable Characters: The characters should be well-developed, with their own motivations, flaws, and strengths.
- Unique Art Style: The art style should be distinctive and visually appealing, enhancing the storytelling and bringing the characters to life.
- Emotional Impact: A good manga should evoke emotions in the reader, whether it’s laughter, sadness, excitement, or fear.
- Themes and Messages: The manga should explore meaningful themes and convey messages that resonate with the reader.
Other Manga Series to Check Out
While waiting for A-DO to return, fans can explore other manga series that offer similar themes or styles. Here are a few recommendations:
- Dandadan: Written and illustrated by Yukinobu Tatsu, Dandadan is a popular series serialized on Shueisha’s Shonen Jump+ service. The series follows Ken (Okarun) and Aira, who gain supernatural powers after a challenge gone wrong, blending the supernatural with slice-of-life elements.
- My Hero Academia: Kōhei Horikoshi’s superhero manga follows Izuku Midoriya as he strives to become the world’s greatest hero. The series features a compelling story, relatable characters, and stunning action sequences.
- Attack on Titan: Hajime Isayama’s dark fantasy manga is set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures called Titans. The series is known for its complex plot, shocking twists, and intense action.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Hiromu Arakawa’s fantasy manga follows two brothers as they search for a way to restore their bodies after a failed attempt to bring their mother back to life using alchemy. The series is praised for its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes.
- One-Punch Man: ONE’s superhero comedy manga follows Saitama, a hero who can defeat any enemy with a single punch. The series is known for its hilarious humor, over-the-top action, and unique art style.
As A-DO prepares for its final series, fans can look forward to an exciting and emotional conclusion to Riko and Eito’s story. The one-month hiatus will give readers time to catch up on the previous volumes and speculate on what the future holds for their favorite characters. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, A-DO is sure to leave a lasting impression on the manga world.
