Manga Mavericks Books has expanded its publishing slate with three new English-language manga licenses announced during its Otakon 2026 panel. The North American publisher revealed that it has acquired ROYD and ONI KING, two standalone action-fantasy one-shots by indie manga creator ZENZO, alongside Town Walking with Ghost Dog, a slice-of-life travelogue manga by Tokyo-based artist Ippan Nakamura.
The announcement highlights the company’s continued focus on bringing unique independent Japanese manga to English readers. Both ROYD and ONI KING are scheduled for digital release in December 2026, while Town Walking with Ghost Dog will launch in print and digital formats in May 2027. Manga Mavericks Books also confirmed that a future print edition collecting both ZENZO one-shots is planned, though a release window has not yet been announced.
Manga Mavericks Books expands catalog with three new manga licenses
ZENZO’s ONI KING is a 16-page fantasy one-shot aimed at readers aged 13 and older. Originally published as part of the independent manga anthology REVENGERS, which debuted at Japan’s Comiket event in 2023, the story follows Oniou, a young demon whose mother is kidnapped by the monstrous Kurokazemaru. Desperate for revenge, he accepts the cursed club Gako, gaining immense power in exchange for his own life force as he struggles with the true cost of vengeance.
The publisher also licensed ROYD, a 36-page fantasy one-shot that first appeared at COMITIA 154. The story centers on Royd, a gifted young mage who gives away his heart to a sentient golem after being convinced that compassion stands in the way of becoming truly powerful. As the golem discovers the beauty of the world through Royd’s heart, the magician gradually loses his humanity, creating a fantasy tale that explores kindness, sacrifice, and identity.
Both digital releases will be priced at $0.99, with digital pre-orders expected to become available soon through the Manga Mavericks Store. Manga Mavericks Books also confirmed that the two stories will later receive a combined print edition.
The third announcement introduced Town Walking with Ghost Dog, a 176-page standalone manga by Ippan Nakamura. Blending memoir, travel guide, and manga storytelling, the series follows the creator and a ghostly canine companion as they explore towns, train routes, hidden alleys, and historical locations across Japan. The English edition will be released in an A5 print format with a retail price of $14.99, while the digital edition will cost $6.99.
Originally published in Japan by TWO VIRGINS, the manga is intended for readers aged eight and above. Nakamura, who is also known for her artwork exhibited across Japanese galleries and illustrations for the Pokémon Trading Card Game, drew the series during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on the manga’s origins, Nakamura shared a message with Otakon attendees.
“I’m overjoyed that my work Town Walking with Ghost Dog will be published in English. This manga, drawn during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, is the first work I’ve ever serialized.”
She explained that daily walks became a source of comfort during lockdown, inspiring many of the observations featured throughout the book.
“If you ever feel like you’re sinking into depression due to solitude, I suggest putting your smartphone away and taking a leisurely walk.”
Nakamura also encouraged future visitors to Japan to experience one of her favorite locations firsthand.
“And should you ever have the opportunity to visit Japan, I recommend visiting Sangenjaya, a town I absolutely adore.”
Print pre-orders for Town Walking with Ghost Dog are already available through the Manga Mavericks Store.
Alongside the licensing announcements, Manga Mavericks Books revealed an additional incentive for fans who pre-order the upcoming The Sword of Paros Deluxe Edition. All orders placed through the Manga Mavericks Store will now include an exclusive shikishi board featuring a digital reproduction of the manga artist Yumiko Igarashi.
The announcements continue Manga Mavericks Books’ strategy of spotlighting distinctive manga from both established and independent Japanese creators. Originally launched as a manga news podcast in 2016, Manga Mavericks has since grown into a multimedia company covering manga journalism, reviews, and publishing, with its books imprint focused on introducing diverse Japanese stories to English-speaking readers.
