So its a new year and there’s a new show line-up. But, perhaps some new books to pick up as well. Today we’ll be looking at a series from a manga-ka you may know already.
Rinne, by Rumiko Takahashi
Now Rumiko Takahashi is no stranger to manga. She’s penned such hits as Ranma1/2, Maison Ikkoku, and Inuyasha, all of which have been globally popular. Her newest work to date is Kyokai no Rinne, which is being released here in the U.S. by Viz Media.
Rinne is the story of Sakura Mamiya, a high school girl who can see spirits. But Sakura isn’t the typical Sakura of anime style. She isn’t a card captor, not a ninja, or a samurai. Nope she’s normal, level headed and completely excepting of the world around her.
The story kicks off when Sakura meets Rinne, a red headed half shinigami, half human. Rinne isn’t all that typical either. And before the Bleach fans start harping that Takahashi a copycat, please recall that there have been PLENTY of Shinigami before Rukia and Ichigo met.(Ex, Botan in YuYu Hakusho, the cast of Yami no Matsuei/Descendants of Darkness) Rinne, has quite a large debt on his shoulders, and spends his days living in the school’s club house and exorcizing spirits.
Takahashi’s work is amazing as usual; you would think there would be some sort of disconnect (seeing as she’s been writing for quite sometime) but her charcters are a perfect fit. While the series is only up to seven volumes so far, the characters have slipped into their roles and a dual sided harem is forming, somewhat reminiscent of Ranma and Akane’s multiple suitors. Takahashi’s work has always had a comfort zone, the cast may laugh, cry, or head into battle, but they still remain the same. It’s good to know masters like Takahashi are still around.
You can find Rinne in the New York Public library, and read the chapters at
Here’s a trailer from Shonen Sunday (Please note there isn’t a Rinne Anime…yet.)
Be aware that the series has been on hiatus (on the viz website) since the tsunami. No word on when it resumes.
But I ‘d check with the Rumic World Website. They know their Takahashi. And she’s worth knowing.
And honestly, I doubt the (official) wait will be long.
Otaku take NY! 