Moe Sugimoto, the creative mind behind the hilarious spin-off manga, “Cells Not at Work!,” has captivated readers with a unique take on the inner workings of the human body. While there is no news of a new manga launching on June 26, 2025, it’s still a great opportunity to dive into the world of Sugimoto’s earlier success, specifically “Cells Not at Work!”
A Spinoff Success Story
“Cells Not at Work!” (Hatarakanai Saibou) is a spin-off of Akane Shimizu’s popular “Cells at Work!” manga series. The original “Cells at Work!” anthropomorphizes the cells within the human body, depicting their daily lives and struggles to keep the body healthy. Sugimoto’s spin-off, however, focuses on a particular group of cells: erythroblasts, the immature red blood cells, who, as the title suggests, would rather slack off than get to work.
The Premise: Procrastination in the Body
The manga revolves around the daily lives of these erythroblasts, particularly one named 871, who find countless excuses to avoid enucleation, the process of maturing into fully functional red blood cells. These immature cells are overseen by a Macrophage, who attempts to guide them toward their purpose, often with little success.
Characters and Their Quirks
- Erythroblasts: These immature red blood cells are the stars of the show, known for their laziness and creative excuses to avoid work. Each character has unique quirks, making them relatable and humorous.
- Macrophage: This cell acts as a mentor and caretaker for the erythroblasts, trying to motivate them and keep them out of trouble. Despite the erythroblasts’ lack of motivation, the Macrophage remains patient and supportive.
Publication Details and Availability
“Cells Not at Work!” was serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Shōnen Sirius from July 26, 2017, to November 26, 2021. The series is comprised of five volumes, all of which have been published in English by Kodansha USA.
Where to Find the Manga
- Digital Platforms: “Cells Not at Work!” is widely available as an eBook on platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, and Book Walker.
- Physical Copies: Physical copies can be found at major book retailers such as Barnes & Noble, as well as online through Amazon and other booksellers.
Volumes in the Series
- Cells NOT at Work! Vol. 1: Introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the series’ comedic take on cellular life.
- Cells NOT at Work! Vol. 2: Continues the adventures of the lazy erythroblasts and their patient Macrophage caretaker.
- Cells NOT at Work! Vol. 3: Further explores the characters’ relationships and introduces new challenges for the erythroblasts to avoid.
- Cells NOT at Work! Vol. 4: Delves deeper into the backstory of the erythroblasts, revealing their true feelings about work and maturity.
- Cells NOT at Work! Vol. 5: Concludes the series with a resolution for the erythroblasts, questioning whether they finally embrace their roles or continue their leisurely lifestyle.
Themes and Reception
“Cells Not at Work!” stands out for its comedic approach to educational content. While rooted in the same scientific concepts as “Cells at Work!,” Sugimoto’s spin-off leans heavily into humor and relatable themes of procrastination and avoiding responsibility.
Critical Reception
The series has generally been well-received, with readers praising its humor, charming characters, and clever use of the “Cells at Work!” universe. It has been recognized as a standout spin-off that successfully blends comedy with educational elements.
The Appeal of “Cells Not at Work!”
- Relatability: The theme of procrastination resonates with many readers, making the erythroblasts’ antics all the more amusing.
- Humor: The manga is filled with light-hearted humor and absurd situations, providing an entertaining and engaging reading experience.
- Accessibility: Even for those unfamiliar with the original “Cells at Work!” series, “Cells Not at Work!” is easy to pick up and enjoy, thanks to its self-contained storyline and clear character introductions.
Akane Shimizu’s Involvement
While Moe Sugimoto is the author and artist of “Cells Not at Work!,” Akane Shimizu, the creator of the original “Cells at Work!,” is credited with supervising the spin-off. This collaboration ensures that the spin-off remains true to the spirit and scientific accuracy of the original series, while also allowing Sugimoto to explore new comedic possibilities.
Other Works in the “Cells at Work!” Universe
The success of “Cells at Work!” has led to numerous spin-offs, each exploring different aspects of the human body and its cells. Some notable spin-offs include:
- Cells at Work! Code Black: A darker take on the original series, set in an unhealthy body facing the consequences of poor lifestyle choices.
- Cells at Work! Bacteria! Focuses on the lives of bacteria, both good and bad, within the human gut.
- Cells at Work! Platelets! Highlights the role of platelets in the body, with a focus on their adorable and hardworking nature.
The Enduring Appeal of “Cells at Work!”
The “Cells at Work!” franchise has resonated with audiences worldwide due to its unique blend of education and entertainment. By anthropomorphizing cells and depicting their daily lives, the series makes complex biological processes accessible and engaging for readers of all ages.
Live-Action Adaptation
In June 2024, Warner Bros. Japan released the first teaser for a live-action “Cells at Work!” film, further expanding the franchise’s reach and popularity. The film promises to bring the beloved characters and stories to life in a new and exciting way.
Moe Sugimoto: A Talented Creator
Moe Sugimoto has demonstrated a unique talent for creating engaging and humorous manga that appeals to a broad audience. While “Cells Not at Work!” remains one of Sugimoto’s most well-known works, it is a testament to their ability to blend entertainment with education in a creative and accessible way. Fans eagerly await any future projects from this talented creator.
