Following the emotional conclusion of Houseki no Kuni (Land of the Lustrous), acclaimed author Haruko Ichikawa is officially returning to serialisation. Kodansha’s monthly Afternoon magazine has revealed that Ichikawa will launch her next work, titled Cosmic Mimimi, in the upcoming issue slated for November 25.
Neo Kawaii Sci-Fi Vision
Billed as a "neo kawaii sci-fi" narrative, Cosmic Mimimi centers around its titular protagonist Mimimi, an entity inhabiting a surreal, idealized city designed with a singular mandate: to ensure absolute happiness for everyone. Ichikawa’s signature blend of metaphysical existentialism and ethereal design promises a distinctly unique atmosphere as strange, joyful phenomena unfold around this creature of pure happiness.
Ichikawa previously spent twelve years crafting Land of the Lustrous in Afternoon, concluding the milestone saga in April 2024. The series earned wide critical acclaim, taking home prestigious accolades including the 45th Nihon SF Taishō Award and the Sense of Gender Award. Readers eager for Ichikawa’s distinct artistic voice won't have to wait long to experience her next speculative fiction venture.
