What Other Books Has The Beastars Mangaka Written?

Paru Itagaki, the brilliant mind behind 'Beastars,' has crafted a few other gems that deserve attention. While 'Beastars' is her most famous work, she also created 'Beast Complex,' a series of short stories set in the same universe. These vignettes explore different animal societies and their struggles, offering a deeper dive into the themes of coexistence and identity that made 'Beastars' so compelling. Itagaki's storytelling shines here, with each chapter focusing on a unique pair of characters, like a wolf and a rabbit or a lion and a gazelle. The emotional depth and social commentary are just as sharp, making it a must-read for fans craving more of her world.

Another lesser-known work is 'Odd Taxi: In the Woods,' a manga adaptation of the anime 'Odd Taxi.' While not an original story, Itagaki's adaptation captures the quirky, noir-inspired vibe of the series perfectly. Her art style adapts surprisingly well to the human-centric world of 'Odd Taxi,' though you can still spot her signature flair in the character expressions and pacing. It's fascinating to see her tackle something outside her usual anthropomorphic wheelhouse. If you love her ability to weave complex narratives with subtle humor and heart, this one’s worth checking out—even if it’s a departure from her usual fare.

Itagaki’s creativity isn’t limited to long-form projects, either. She’s contributed to anthologies and one-shots, though these are harder to track down. Her voice is so distinct that even in shorter pieces, you can feel her knack for blending raw emotion with societal critique. I’m always hoping she’ll announce a new original series soon, but for now, revisiting 'Beast Complex' or diving into 'Odd Taxi: In the Woods' is a great way to appreciate her range. Her work leaves you thinking long after the last page—something I adore about her storytelling.