The Fox & Little Tanuki
Age: š 8+ | 7 Volumes (Ongoing) | Paperback & eBook | Creator: Mi Tagawa
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The Fox & Little Tanuki is an utterly charming fantasy manga from creator Mi Tagawa that proves redemption comes in the smallest packages. Perfect for readers of all ages, this heartwarming series blends Japanese folklore with found-family sweetness in a story about second chances, responsibility, and learning to care for someone other than yourself.
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Three hundred years ago, Senzou the black fox was one of the most arrogant and powerful spirits in the land. His pride was legendaryāand so was his downfall. Imprisoned by the gods as punishment for his hubris, Senzou has spent centuries stripped of his powers and trapped in isolation.
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Now, finally, the gods are ready to offer him freedom. But there's a catch.
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Senzou won't regain his abilities until he successfully raises Manpachiāa tiny, innocent tanuki cubāand helps him become a proper assistant to the gods. Bound by enchanted beads that keep him tethered to his new charge, the once-mighty fox has no choice but to become... a babysitter.
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What follows is a delightful journey of transformation. Senzou, bitter and impatient, must learn to protect, teach, and care for the earnest little Manpachi, who sees only the best in his reluctant guardian. Along the way, they encounter other yokai, navigate the spirit world's politics, and discover that the bonds we form by choice are the most powerful magic of all.
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Mi Tagawa delivers a series that's equal parts funny, touching, and visually gorgeousāperfect for fans of Japanese mythology who want their folklore served with a generous helping of heart.
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The Fox & Little Tanuki is proof that even the proudest spirits can learn to loveāone small tanuki at a time.
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Perfect for readers who love: Japanese folklore and yokai, found family dynamics, redemption arcs, mentor/guardian relationships, all-ages fantasy, heartwarming comedy.