Cover of first Volume
MAO (マオ) is a Japanese manga written and illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi (author of Urusei Yatsura, Maison Ikkoku, Ranma ½, Rumic World, Inuyasha and Rin-ne).
Production[]
Mao began serialization on May 8, 2019 in Shogakukan's Weekly Shōnen Sunday manga magazine, following nearly a year and a half after she wrapped up her fifth major manga series, Kyōkai no Rinne.
Plot[]
The story begins with the modern-day narrator Nanoka Kiba, a female high school student who eight years ago escaped a near-death experience through mysterious circumstances. One day, she again finds herself involved in dangerous supernatural events by passing through a gate that transports her to the Taisho Era. Here, she meets the mysterious Mao, an exorcist who searches for a byōki, a dangerous creature who may connect the two in ways unforeseen.
Style[]
Since the incidents at the core of the story occur in the past, the reader relates to the story best via a modern heroine, who has the same perspective on these events as they do. In a sense, while Mao is the main character, with her narrator's central role, Nanoka Kiba becomes the navigator for the reader.[1][2]
Comparison to other Rumiko Takahashi works[]
English translation[]
In February 2021, Viz Media announced that they licensed the series for English release in North America and the first volume will be published in fall 2021.
Gallery[]
Shonen Sunday covers[]
