Big news for manga fans: Yūki Shikawa, the award-winning creator behind Miss Bernard said., is teaming up with artist Hiru Morino for a brand-new series titled Rojiura no Arisu (Alice of the Back Alley). The series is scheduled to debut in the next issue of Akita Publishing’s Bessatsu Young Champion on July 7. This collaboration pairs Shikawa’s sharp storytelling with Morino’s recent momentum, making Rojiura no Arisu one of the most anticipated new manga launches this season.
What the Announcement Means
The announcement confirms that Rojiura no Arisu will premiere in Bessatsu Young Champion’s July issue on July 7. For readers who follow contemporary seinen and slice-of-life titles, this pairing is noteworthy: Yūki Shikawa brings a reputation for emotionally intelligent storytelling and award-winning short works, while Hiru Morino enters the spotlight after the completion of Luna Knight. The combination suggests a series that could blend thoughtful character work with visually confident art.
Creators: Yūki Shikawa & Hiru Morino
Yūki Shikawa — a storyteller with pedigree
Yūki Shikawa is best known internationally for Miss Bernard said. (Bernard-jō Iwaku.), which inspired a television anime adaptation in October 2016. Shikawa’s body of work also includes acclaimed short manga such as Onnoji and Utsu Gohan, and the creator has been recognized by major industry awards — notably taking home the 18th Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize alongside those short works. That track record signals strong narrative instincts, especially when it comes to character-driven drama and subtle humor.
Hiru Morino — emerging artist to watch
Hiru Morino recently wrapped up the Luna Knight manga, which launched in Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine in September 2024 and concluded in December 2025. Kodansha shipped the third and final volume on January 20, and international publishers have already scheduled releases. Morino’s work on Luna Knight displayed a crisp, expressive line and confident page composition — qualities that should complement Shikawa’s writing in Rojiura no Arisu.
Publication Details & Release Schedule
Rojiura no Arisu is slated to begin serialization in the July issue of Bessatsu Young Champion, arriving on July 7. Readers should check the magazine issue for the first chapter and any additional editorial notes about pacing or planned serialization frequency. Given both creators’ professional histories, it’s reasonable to expect a regular run in the magazine rather than a one-shot, but official release cadence will be confirmed in the magazine itself.
Context: Where This Fits in Both Creators’ Careers
For Shikawa: continuing momentum after prize-winning shorts
Shikawa’s recent recognition with the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize places Rojiura no Arisu in the context of an author with growing critical acclaim. Miss Bernard said. remains a touchstone for readers who appreciate Shikawa’s balance of humor and humane observation. New serialized projects from creators with that kind of reputation often explore richer, more experimental themes — something to watch for in this collaboration.
For Morino: building on Luna Knight
Morino’s completion of Luna Knight (September 2024–December 2025) and the release of its final compiled volume in January demonstrate an artist who has recently navigated a full series cycle. The announced involvement with Shikawa represents a significant next step: teaming with a high-profile writer can raise an artist’s profile and let them explore new visual approaches while working within a collaborative dynamic.
What Fans Should Expect
While plot details for Rojiura no Arisu haven’t been revealed yet, the title — literally “Alice of the Back Alley” — evokes images of urban settings, hidden corners, and a protagonist who might navigate marginalized or secretive spaces. Given Shikawa’s strengths, expect layered character interactions, wry observations, and emotionally resonant beats. Morino’s art should supply clarity, expressiveness, and strong panel rhythm, based on their recent work.
Likely themes and tone (speculative)
- Intimate, character-led storytelling rather than high-concept action.
- Moments of quiet humor mixed with deeper emotional undercurrents.
- Urban or back-alley settings used to highlight social dynamics or personal growth.
Note: these expectations are inferred from both creators’ track records and the title itself; official story synopsis and character reveals will provide confirmation.
Where to Read and Buy
Rojiura no Arisu will debut in Akita Publishing’s Bessatsu Young Champion magazine on July 7 — pick up the issue for the first chapter and any editorial extras. For those who prefer collected volumes, keep an eye on publisher announcements about tankōbon releases after serialization progresses. (The image above links to the magazine’s official page for the July issue.)
Why This Collaboration Matters
Collaborations between established writers and emerging artists have produced some of the most memorable manga runs. Rojiura no Arisu brings together a writer who has proven both popular and critically acclaimed with an artist who is rapidly gaining experience and attention. For readers who follow auteur-driven manga or enjoy discovering new ongoing series with high creative potential, this launch is a must-watch.
Final Thoughts
Rojiura no Arisu is an exciting announcement that blends Yūki Shikawa’s award-winning narrative sensibilities with Hiru Morino’s recent artistic momentum. The July 7 debut in Bessatsu Young Champion promises a fresh series to track through the summer and beyond. Whether you follow Shikawa for his emotional nuance or Morino for dynamic art, this collaboration is likely to deliver a thoughtful, well-crafted manga — one worth reading from the first chapter.
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