Manga Planet is expanding its print offerings with the addition of four new Boys’ Love (BL) titles. Among the newly licensed manga is Thanat’s Here and There and Us (New Edition), along with works by Mitsuaki Asou and Sonoo Michiru. Here’s everything fans need to know about these upcoming releases.
Four New BL Manga Titles Headed to Print
Manga Planet recently announced that they have acquired licenses for four more Boys’ Love (BL) titles for print release under the futekiya imprint, which specializes in BL content. The titles include:
- Here and There and Us (New Edition) Volumes 1 and 2 by Thanat
- The Farthest Love in the World 1 by Mitsuaki Asou
- KOH-BOKU by Sonoo Michiru
These titles will be available exclusively through Kinokuniya USA for their initial release, offering fans a chance to add these stories to their physical manga collections.
Here and There and Us: A Deep Dive
Here and There and Us by Thanat is a coming-of-age story that revolves around the evolving relationship between two high school classmates, Majima and Sonoki.
Plot Overview
Majima, a popular and outgoing student, discovers a different side to Sonoki, a quiet and introverted classmate. Intrigued, Majima starts paying more attention to Sonoki, striking up conversations and teasing him to see his reactions. As Sonoki blushes and becomes flustered, Majima finds himself increasingly drawn to him.
The story follows their interactions through high school, depicting a “slow burn” romance as they navigate their feelings and the challenges of growing up. A significant plot point occurs when they are separated into different classes, testing the strength and development of their bond.
Themes and Style
Here and There and Us is celebrated for its realistic portrayal of high school life and its subtle, character-driven romance. The manga captures the nuances of teenage relationships, focusing on personal growth, friendship, and the slow realization of romantic feelings. It has been praised for its slice-of-life vibe and relatable characters, making it accessible to both BL veterans and newcomers.
What the Reviews Say
Reviewers have noted the manga’s unique origin in a seinen magazine, which influences its pacing and dialogue. The “slow-burn” romance is a standout feature, creating anticipation and investment in the characters’ journey. It’s a title that resonates with readers who appreciate character development and realistic storytelling over fast-paced plots.
Where to read it
Manga Planet offers digital access to Here and There and Us (New Edition) through its subscription service. The first volume of Here and There and Us (New Edition) includes Chapters 1-7. Subscribers can access these chapters and more through Manga Planet’s platform.
Other Licensed Titles
Besides Here and There and Us, Manga Planet has also licensed The Farthest Love in the World and KOH-BOKU for print release. Here’s a brief look at these titles:
The Farthest Love in the World
- Creator: Mitsuaki Asou
- Story: Ayumu Isuzu, a young man who lives in a world without sound, encounters a beaten-up musician named Touka. The story explores their relationship as Ayumu brings light into Touka’s music, and Touka brings new experiences into Ayumu’s life.
KOH-BOKU
- Creator: Sonoo Michiru
- Story: Tasuku Kashiwagi and Kyu Imamiya, two public servants working for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Imamiya wants Kashiwagi to find friends and a lover, but Kashiwagi is content with doting on Imamiya.
About Manga Planet
Manga Planet is a manga subscription service that provides access to a wide range of officially licensed English-language manga. It started in 2012 as a joint project between FANTASISTA, INC. and Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd., focusing on researching manga readership worldwide. In 2019, Manga Planet launched the Boys’ Love (BL) subscription service futekiya Library, followed by the multi-genre Manga Planet Library. Both libraries merged into one Manga Planet in April 2023.
Subscription and Access
Manga Planet offers an affordable subscription plan starting at US$1.99 for one week. The service aims to bridge the gap between international manga fans and the Japanese manga industry by providing affordable access to officially licensed content. In addition to subscriptions, Manga Planet offers options to purchase or rent individual titles.
Print Editions
Manga Planet has been actively expanding its print offerings, making titles available for purchase through Kinokuniya USA. This initiative allows fans to collect physical copies of their favorite manga, supporting both the creators and the industry.
Where to Buy
The print editions of Here and There and Us, The Farthest Love in the World, and KOH-BOKU will be available exclusively at Kinokuniya USA for their initial release.
Final Thoughts
Manga Planet’s commitment to bringing diverse and engaging BL stories to English-speaking audiences is commendable. The upcoming print releases of Here and There and Us, The Farthest Love in the World, and KOH-BOKU offer fans new opportunities to experience these titles in a tangible format. With a focus on quality translations, accessible subscriptions, and partnerships with retailers like Kinokuniya USA, Manga Planet continues to be a key player in the global manga community.
