A new manga series, Silence, is set to captivate readers with its unique blend of fantasy and adventure. Published by Kana, a new manga imprint from Abrams ComicArts, the first volume is hitting bookstores on January 14, 2025, and comic shops on January 15, 2025. This marks a significant release for the imprint, which is making waves with its focus on mature and diverse storytelling.
A World Without Sound
Silence, originally published in French by Kana, is the creation of Yoann Vornière, who is both the writer and artist. The story plunges readers into a world shrouded in perpetual darkness, where humanity has been forced to adapt to a terrifying reality. Monsters, sensitive to sound, especially the human voice, have forced people to communicate through sign language. Villages are isolated and resources are scarce. This premise creates a world of suspense and quiet tension, a stark contrast to the often-loud action present in other manga series.
The Story of Lame
The story centers around a young man named Lame who lives in one of these secluded villages. He is a caretaker of the children and a storyteller, a crucial role in their silent world. When the village’s food supply dwindles, Lame is recruited to accompany Gris, the village hunter, on a foraging expedition. During this trip, Lame inadvertently breaks the silence, triggering an attack and a life-altering encounter. This event thrusts Lame into a journey that challenges his beliefs and understanding of the world. The official synopsis indicates that the villagers must summon long-forgotten courage to escape their current existence.
An Exclusive Preview
Otaku USA Magazine secured an exclusive first look at Silence, offering a sneak peek at the manga’s artwork and storytelling. The preview pages showcase Vornière’s detailed art style, which captures the desolate landscape and the emotional depth of the characters. The style is reminiscent of European comics, with intricate linework and a focus on atmosphere. This is a departure from the typical style of Japanese manga.
Kana’s Vision
Kana, while sharing a name with a French publisher, is not directly affiliated with it. It’s a new imprint by Abrams ComicArts, a division of Abrams Books, and aims to bring diverse manga to the US audience. Kana plans to publish 40-60 volumes per year, focusing on titles geared towards older readers, including horror and mature themes. This commitment signals a desire to move beyond the more common shonen and shojo manga genres. The imprint has also stated their books will have a dust jacket, a first signature in color, and high-quality paper, taking cues from Japanese manga publishing practices.
Thematic Depth
While the initial premise might sound like a typical monster story, Silence delves deeper into themes of isolation, survival, and the power of communication. The use of sign language is not just a plot device but a way to explore human connection in the absence of sound. The story explores how the need to stay silent impacts social dynamics and personal identity. This allows for a unique experience in manga storytelling.
A Departure from the Norm
The manga is a unique addition to the manga landscape in the US. Unlike many popular series with anime adaptations, Silence is an original fantasy-adventure tale created by a French author. This blend of international influences and original storytelling sets it apart from other manga offerings. It indicates the imprint’s commitment to showcasing a wide variety of works.
Other Titles from Kana
Silence is one of the six initial titles that Kana has released. The others include:
- Scars by Brandon Arias
- Leviathan by Shiro Kuroi
- Manhole by Tetsuya Tsutsui
- Eden of Witches by Yumeji
- Space Punch by ZD
These diverse titles showcase the breadth of stories Kana aims to publish. They range from science fiction suspense to fantasy adventures. This selection demonstrates their commitment to publishing manga aimed at older readers.
About Abrams ComicArts
Abrams ComicArts, the parent company of Kana, transitioned from an imprint to a full division in 2023. Their launch of Kana is a clear indication of their dedication to the manga market. It also shows their recognition of the growing demand for diverse manga. Distribution for Kana is handled by Hachette, a well-known distributor in the publishing industry.
Where to Find Silence
The first volume of Silence is available for purchase in bookstores starting January 14, 2025, and in comic shops starting January 15, 2025. It is also available online through various book vendors.
The Future of Kana
With the release of Silence and their other initial titles, Kana is poised to become a significant player in the US manga market. Their focus on mature themes and international creators offers a fresh perspective. This approach sets them apart from other publishers. They have plans to publish between 40 to 60 paperback volumes every year. This commitment should bring even more diverse and engaging stories to manga fans in the US.
Conclusion
Silence by Yoann Vornière is more than just another manga release. It’s a story that invites readers into a world of silence, where survival depends on courage and resilience. The manga is a key release for Kana and a must-read for anyone seeking a unique, thought-provoking, and beautifully illustrated story. As Kana continues to release new titles, it will be interesting to see how this imprint further diversifies the manga market. The release of Silence is a great start for the new imprint, showcasing the quality and originality they aim to bring to the forefront of the US market.
