Manga creator Nao Maita is preparing for her next project following the conclusion of her long-running series, Shining!. The announcement arrived in the October issue of Shogakukan's Ciao magazine, confirming that Maita will debut a new, as-of-yet untitled work in the magazine's February 2027 issue, which hits shelves on December 28.
This transition comes alongside the wrap-up of Shining!, which Maita began serializing in July 2023. While the final chapter has now been published, the series will see its 10th and final compiled volume released on December 25. Maita is a staple of the Ciao magazine lineup, having previously authored works such as Otona wa Wakattekurenai. and the award-winning Age 12 (12-Sai.).
Why it matters: Maita’s work has historically served as a cornerstone for the magazine's demographic, with Age 12 notably securing the Best Children's Manga award at the 64th Shogakukan Manga Awards in 2019. Given her track record of long-running, multi-volume series, the industry will be watching to see if this new project follows a similar trajectory or introduces a shift in her storytelling focus.
