Analysis: Akikuri Ogami Launches New Manga "Trench no Broom Star" in Haruta
Manga fans have something really special to look forward to today itself! The very talented Akikuri Ogami, who many of us know and love for works like "Far East Incidents," has officially started a brand-new series. This latest project is titled "Trench no Broom Star" and it has just made its debut in the pages of Haruta Vol. 132 (published by KADOKAWA), which was released on March 13th. If you follow Ogami’s work, you know the art is always very detailed and the stories have a very unique vibe to them.
An Industrial Fantasy Set in 1914 Birmingham
The story of "The Trench Star" or "Broom Star in the Trench" is set in a very interesting time and place. We are taken to Birmingham, England, in the year 1914. This was a period where the shadows of a massive war were already approaching, making the atmosphere quite heavy and intense. The narrative centers around a young girl named Monica. Now, Monica isn't just any ordinary girl; she is a "witch" who navigates the skies, but she does it using a mechanical broom. This isn't your typical fairy tale magic, though.
The series is being described as an "industrial fantasy." This means it beautifully depicts a world where old-school magic and modern-style weapons are clashing and co-existing at the same time. It’s a very fresh take on the genre, especially with the historical English backdrop. For those wanting to dive deeper into the lore and the setting, understanding Broom Star in the Trench is essential to see how Monica's journey will unfold amidst the rising tensions of 1914.
Special Appendix: Smoke and Honey Paper Craft
In addition to the exciting new manga launch, this issue of Haruta is a real treat for collectors. It includes a special binding appendix featuring a paper craft from the popular series "Smoke and Honey." This particular craft is famously known as "Dress-up Bunji" (or Bunji-sama). Fans of the series are quite happy because the illustrations used for this appendix are actually original drawings by the creator Hiroko Chozo. It’s a very nice touch for those who like to collect physical items from their favourite magazines.
Speaking of "Smoke and Honey," there is more good news for the fans. The latest 7 volumes of the series are being released simultaneously today! It seems KADOKAWA is really going all out to celebrate these releases. If you are a fan of historical drama or unique fantasy settings, today’s Broom Star in the Trench news is definitely the highlight of the week. The combination of Ogami’s storytelling and the high production value of Haruta magazine always results in something worth reading.
“Dress-up Bunji-sama”
- New Series: "Trench no Broom Star" by Akikuri Ogami.
- Magazine: Haruta Vol. 132, released on March 13th.
- Genre: Industrial Fantasy with a historical twist.
- Bonus: "Smoke and Honey" paper craft appendix by Hiroko Chozo.
- Extra: Simultaneous release of 7 volumes of "Smoke and Honey."
It is honestly a great time to be a manga reader, especially with these kinds of unique "industrial fantasy" stories coming out. The way Monica uses technology and magic together is going to be very interesting to see as the war gets closer in the story. We will have to keep a close eye on how Ogami-sensei develops this English setting in the coming chapters.
