A Heartwarming Story in a Post-Apocalyptic World: Shumatsu Neko Shonin Manga Begins!
One of the giants of the manga world, Square Enix, invites its readers on a brand-new adventure that will both sadden and warm their hearts. In the June issue of Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine, which hit shelves on May 12, Shumatsu Neko Shonin (Apocalypse Cat Merchant) by Daisuke Takashima officially began its publication run. The series, which was decided to be serialized after its one-shot version previously published in the magazine received great interest, takes place in a post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
At the center of the story lies a world where civilization has collapsed and humanity is trying to survive among the ruins. Our main character is a young boy who worked as a servant for a cruel merchant and was fired for being "useless." Left helpless on the streets, this child is taken in by a massive, silent cat-woman, a new species of human he encounters. The duo tries to build a peaceful life for themselves in this ruined world by operating a traveling shop where they sell relics of the past and antiques.
The author and illustrator of the series, Daisuke Takashima, was previously known for his illustrations in action-packed and fantasy works such as The Strongest Swordsman Has Zero Equipment Slots (Sobiwaku Zero no Saikyou Kenshi). However, with Shumatsu Neko Shonin, Takashima shifts toward a more melancholic and "iyashikei" (healing/soothing) style. Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine, having hosted legendary series such as Fullmetal Alchemist, Soul Eater, and The Apothecary Diaries, gives signals that this new manga could also achieve long-term success.
Post-apocalyptic themed manga are generally dark and
