Manga Mavericks, the popular website and podcast dedicated to the world of manga, has announced the launch of its own publishing division, Manga Mavericks Books. This exciting new venture aims to license, localize, and distribute manga from indie creators in Japan to a global audience. The company is set to release its first titles in July 2025, marking a significant step for the platform and the independent manga scene.
A New Chapter for Manga Mavericks
Manga Mavericks has long been a prominent voice in the manga community, offering insightful reviews, discussions, and interviews. Now, they’re taking their passion a step further by directly supporting creators and bringing unique stories to readers worldwide. This move reflects a growing interest in diverse voices and narratives within the manga industry, providing a platform for independent artists to reach a broader audience.
Mission and Vision
The core mission of Manga Mavericks Books is to work directly with Japanese creators, offering them a platform to share their stories with the world. This hands-on approach ensures that the creators’ visions are preserved while making their work accessible to English-speaking readers. By focusing on indie creators, Manga Mavericks Books aims to introduce fresh perspectives and unique storytelling styles that might not otherwise find their way to Western markets.
Initial Title Slate
Manga Mavericks Books will launch with an initial slate of three manga titles, along with physical releases of three manga acquired by localization partner Red String. All six titles will be available in both print and digital formats.
Manga Mavericks Books Titles
The initial offerings from Manga Mavericks Books showcase a commitment to diverse storytelling and artistic styles.
BONDS by ZENZO
- Creator: ZENZO
- Release Date: July 2025 (Print/Digital)
- Synopsis: BONDS presents an alternate take on the classic Journey to the West. Son Goku and Sanzo have only just begun their journey, and trust doesn’t come easily. Their shaky bond is tested when Sanzo’s misgivings lead to a rift between them. Will they overcome their differences, or is the journey over before it truly begins?
BONDS won both the Japan Representative Selection and Candidate Award in the Featured Manga category for the 2019 Goku Cup manga contest. ZENZO studied under Beyblade: Metal Fusion creator Takafumi Adachi.
ALTERNATIVE[SELF LINER NOTE] by Chiaki Yagura
- Creator: Chiaki Yagura
- Release Date: July 2025 (Print/Digital)
- Synopsis: ALTERNATIVE[SELF LINER NOTE] is a personal and reflective story about music, creative struggles, and the need for self-expression. The protagonist grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the pressure to create meaningful work. “The good die young.” There’s a whole movement of entertainers who by 27 years old had left their mark on the world, including my God. At 28, what have I done? Am I worthy to stand on the same stage? Why does my gospel stay unwritten?
ALTERNATIVE[SELF LINER NOTE] was originally released at COMITIA 130 in 2019.
Zigoku’s Foreman by 9banta, Hiroki Kamishiro (co-planner)
- Creators: 9banta, Hiroki Kamishiro (co-planner)
- Release Date: July 2025 (Print/Digital)
- Synopsis: Meet Mizuchi, the literal boss from hell. Once a human, Mizuchi died, went to hell, and became an unruly demon. As a foreman with a motley crew of underlings, he’s supposed to be overseeing hellish construction work. However, Mizuchi and his crew are hellbent on doing anything but their jobs.
Red String Titles
Manga Mavericks will also release the physical editions of titles acquired by Red String.
Additional Titles and Availability
All six titles will be released in English, both digitally and in print, in July 2025. Pre-orders are currently available through the Manga Mavericks Books Store, with worldwide shipping available.
Supporting Indie Creators
Manga Mavericks Books’ focus on independent creators is particularly noteworthy. The manga industry, while globally successful, can be challenging for artists who aren’t part of major publishing houses. By providing licensing, localization, and distribution support, Manga Mavericks Books is helping these creators overcome barriers and connect with a broader readership.
The Importance of Localization
Localization is a critical aspect of bringing manga to international audiences. It involves not only translating the text but also adapting cultural nuances and references to ensure the story resonates with readers from different backgrounds. Manga Mavericks Books’ commitment to quality localization ensures that the original intent and artistic vision of the creators are preserved while making the work accessible and enjoyable for English-speaking readers.
Print vs. Digital
The decision to release titles in both print and digital formats reflects an understanding of the diverse preferences within the manga community. Some readers prefer the tactile experience of holding a physical book, while others appreciate the convenience and accessibility of digital versions. By offering both options, Manga Mavericks Books caters to a wider audience and maximizes the reach of the licensed titles.
The Future of Manga Mavericks Books
The launch of Manga Mavericks Books is an exciting development for the manga industry, particularly for independent creators and fans seeking unique and diverse stories. As the publishing division grows, it has the potential to become a significant platform for introducing new talent and perspectives to the global manga market.
Potential Impact
The success of Manga Mavericks Books could encourage other platforms and organizations to invest in independent manga creators, further diversifying the industry and providing more opportunities for artists to share their work. This could lead to a more vibrant and dynamic manga landscape, with a wider range of genres, styles, and voices represented.
Challenges and Opportunities
Like any new publishing venture, Manga Mavericks Books will likely face challenges, including navigating the complexities of licensing, distribution, and marketing. However, their established presence in the manga community and their commitment to quality and creator support position them well for success. The opportunities are vast, with a growing global interest in manga and a desire for fresh and unique stories.
Manga Mavericks Books is poised to make a significant contribution to the manga world by championing independent creators and bringing their stories to a global audience. This new chapter promises to be an exciting journey for both the company and the manga community as a whole.
