Kanata Konami’s heartwarming manga series, Sue and Tai-chan, has come to an end. The final chapter was published in the May issue of Kodansha’s Be Love magazine on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Fans of the adorable feline duo can look forward to the release of the seventh and final compiled book volume in Japan on May 13.
A Purrfect Premise
Sue and Tai-chan tells the story of Sue, an aging housecat content with a peaceful life, whose plans are hilariously disrupted by the arrival of Tai-chan, a mischievous black tomcat. The manga explores their evolving relationship as Sue reluctantly takes on the role of a caretaker for the energetic kitten. Kodansha USA Publishing, which releases the manga in English, aptly describes the premise: “Sue is an aging housecat who’s looking forward to living out her life in peace… but her plans change when the mischievous black tomcat Tai-chan enters the picture! Hey! Sue never signed up to be a catsitter!”
Series Overview
- Author: Kanata Konami
- Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
- Original Run: January 2017 – April 1, 2025
- Magazine: Be Love (Kodansha)
- Volumes: 7
- Publisher (English): Kodansha USA Publishing
A Colorful Journey
Konami launched the Sue and Tai-chan manga in Be Love magazine in January 2017, offering readers a delightful and colorful glimpse into the everyday lives of cats. The series is known for its charming artwork, relatable scenarios, and heartwarming depiction of the bond between the two feline protagonists. The stories often revolve around Tai-chan’s boundless curiosity and Sue’s attempts to maintain her tranquility, creating a humorous and endearing dynamic.
Konami’s Legacy: More Than Just Sue and Tai-chan
Kanata Konami is no stranger to creating beloved cat-themed manga. Before Sue and Tai-chan, she was the mastermind behind the hugely popular Chi’s Sweet Home. This earlier work, which follows the adventures of a lost kitten named Chi, gained international acclaim and solidified Konami’s reputation as a leading manga artist in the genre.
Chi’s Sweet Home: A Retrospective
Chi’s Sweet Home ran in Morning magazine from 2004 to June 2015, culminating in 12 volumes. The series was licensed by Vertical in 2009, with the final volume released in English in November 2015. Chi’s Sweet Home also received two 2D television anime series in 2008 and 2009, with Crunchyroll streaming the second season, titled Chi’s New Address. Discotek Media later licensed both seasons for DVD release. Furthermore, Chi’s Sweet Home inspired a 3DCG anime series, Chi’s Sweet Adventure, which premiered in Japan in October 2016 and was streamed by Amazon’s Anime Strike service. A second season premiered in April 2018, also on Amazon, and a new season titled Chi’s Sweet Adventure: Summer Vacation premiered on Netflix in June 2024.
What Made Sue and Tai-chan Special?
Sue and Tai-chan resonated with readers due to its gentle humor, realistic portrayal of cat behavior, and heartwarming themes of companionship. The manga captures the essence of owning cats, from the playful antics of kittens to the serene nature of older felines. The dynamic between Sue and Tai-chan is both amusing and touching, as they navigate their differences and form an unlikely friendship.
Themes and Appeal
- Relatability: The manga’s depiction of everyday life with cats is highly relatable to cat owners.
- Humor: The contrast between Sue’s laid-back personality and Tai-chan’s energetic nature provides plenty of comedic moments.
- Heartwarming Relationships: The evolving bond between Sue and Tai-chan showcases the joys of companionship and acceptance.
- Charming Art Style: Konami’s distinctive art style, with its expressive characters and vibrant colors, adds to the manga’s appeal.
- Lighthearted Tone: The series avoids heavy drama, offering a pleasant and relaxing reading experience.
Exploring the Characters
Sue: The Seasoned Veteran
Sue is an older, more experienced housecat who enjoys the quiet life. She embodies the typical traits of a senior cat, preferring naps and relaxation to boisterous play. However, her peaceful routine is upended when Tai-chan arrives, forcing her to adapt to the presence of a lively kitten. Despite her initial reluctance, Sue gradually warms up to Tai-chan and takes on a nurturing role, guiding him through the challenges of his new environment.
Tai-chan: The Inquisitive Kitten
Tai-chan is a young, energetic black tomcat who brings chaos and excitement into Sue’s life. He is curious about everything around him and constantly seeks new adventures. His playful nature often clashes with Sue’s desire for peace and quiet, leading to humorous interactions. Despite his mischievous tendencies, Tai-chan is ultimately a lovable and endearing character who brings joy and vitality to Sue’s world.
Natsuki: The Human Companion
Natsuki is Sue’s owner and the one responsible for bringing Tai-chan into their home. While he appears intermittently throughout the series, the focus remains primarily on the cats and their interactions. Natsuki provides a stable and caring environment for Sue and Tai-chan, allowing their relationship to flourish.
What Readers are Saying
Reviewers and fans alike have praised Sue and Tai-chan for its heartwarming story, charming characters, and delightful artwork. Many have compared it favorably to Konami’s previous work, Chi’s Sweet Home, citing its similar appeal to cat lovers of all ages.
Quotes from Reviews
- “This is a manga that any cat-lover would adore, and really one anyone can pick up for a delightful look into everyday life—with no drama or such—just small bits of fun!”
- “Sue & Tai-chan is an absolutely adorable book, as are the cats themselves. It’s also good insight into what’s involved in taking care of a pet, particularly a young, active one.”
- “Like Chi’s Sweet Home, Sue & Tai-chan is a cute, sweet, and all around wholesome story that’s perfect for all ages. It’s the type of feel good story that everyone needs in their life while being the perfect story for kids.”
Where to Find Sue and Tai-chan
For those who wish to experience the heartwarming world of Sue and Tai-chan, the manga is available for purchase in English from various retailers, including:
- Kodansha USA Publishing
- Amazon
- Penguin Random House
A Fond Farewell
As Sue and Tai-chan comes to a close, fans can cherish the memories and heartwarming moments shared throughout the series. Kanata Konami’s delightful creation has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the hearts of cat lovers worldwide. While the manga may be ending, the spirit of Sue and Tai-chan will continue to live on in the hearts of those who have enjoyed their adorable adventures.
