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More magic is on the way.
For nearly four decades, Kiki's Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono has captured the imaginations of children and adults alike. When the story was adapted as an animated film by Hayao Miyazaki in 1989, it found worldwide acclaim. To this day, the film remains a favorite among anime fans.
So, it comes as no surprise—but a welcome development—that the story will be turned into a TV series. What is surprising is that Kadono has written a sequel to the first novel and it'll debut this summer!
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Currently in development, the TV show will cover the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series—following the 13-year-old witch Kiki as she leaves home and relocates to the port town of Koriko, where she sets up a delivery service and forges new friendships. Produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family, Wheel in Motion and Japan’s Kadokawa Corporation, it'll be aired as 10 half-hour episodes.
“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership,” said Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa, in a statement. “The U.K. creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms. Kadono and the results will enchant family audiences everywhere.”
“Kiki is about to set off on another adventure into a new world,” Kadono said. "I’m confident this will be a great show. I can’t wait to see the series come to life.”
We'll also get to see Kiki forge a new path in Kadono's Kiki and the New Magic that follows Kiki the young witch (and Jiji) a year after she became a full-fledged witch. She's become somewhat of a local celebrity, but that means she's facing new challenges. Her friendships with Jiji and Tombo are tested and she begins to doubt herself. She must summon her courage and even explore a new kind of magic to overcome her new world.
"Kiki and the New Magic is a captivating tale of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery," Penguin Random House says about its book. "Perfect for fans of the Studio Ghibli film and anyone who loves a magical adventure."
According to PRH, Kadono, who lives in Japan, has published nearly two hundred original works and received the Hans Christian Andersen Award and a place on the IBBY Honor List for Kiki’s Delivery Service. The book is illustrated by Yuta Onoda and translated by Emily Balistrieri, and will be released on August 25, wherever you buy your books!