Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5 Review

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5 Review

Writer & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Cover Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Price: $12.99

Book Length: 112 Pages (Black & White)

ISBN: 9781787743663

Release Date: June 9, 2026

 

They have braved the dangers of walking among the Fantastical creatures. Somali and her "Dad" have safely traversed the Osuna Desert. Along the way, the Human girl and the Golem have made friends. And as the old librarian in the Witch Village said, they have let their light inside them shine.

 

Yet there are always new things to discover. After reuniting with their friends Shizuno and Yabashira in Chompers' Row, Somali and the Golem find themselves in Bygone City. A Snow Crossing fills the inns, and thieves and gangs rule the streets. Yet an innkeeper has hired the Golem and his assistant Yabashira to protect his guests. How long will they remain in the town where the locals prey on the travelers? And can they procure provisions to continue their journey? Let’s strap on our snowshoes, leap into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5, and see!

 

Story

Shizuno and his assistant Yabashira were some of the first people the travelers met after the Golem bid goodbye to his forest. Recognizing that he needed Shizuno’s expertise to care for Somali, the Golem asked Shizuno to teach him how to make salves and treat wounds. When they meet in Chompers’ Row, Shizuno is learning about dental care. Shizuno is perceptive and caring. So, when Shizuno realizes that Somali is a Human, the Golem tells him how they met.

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5 returns to the beginning of the series, when the Golem discovers the Human child shackled in the forest. But while the Golem and child meet and then swiftly depart the forest in the first book, the Golem treats Shizuno to the entire story. The Golem’s tale recalls Haitora’s tale in the fourth book, and how his tragedy led the Human to care for Uzoi, the Noble Harpy orphan. Yet it also addresses why Fantasticals revere Golems. After explaining how they met and what prompted him to care for Somali, the Golem and Yabashira begin their work at the inn, leaving Shizuno to safeguard Somali. Yet danger lurks in this town where locals prey on visitors, and people don’t get along.

 

While focusing on the quartet, Yako Gureishi provides insights into the people who bring the Golem and Somali together or would tear the two apart. The story also shows how different the Golem and Somali were when they first met and the camaraderie they have since forged. Each is constantly in the other’s thoughts. Yet despite their exceptional bond and the love they have for each other and everyone around them, the shadow of the past still threatens. Not everyone is as perceptive as Shizuno. But the war between the Fantasticals and Humans is still fresh in people's minds. Relying on the old ways of staving off danger seems safer than risking another war in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5.

 

Art

When he finds Human corpses in cages within a wrecked covered wagon, a cat directs the Golem to a shackled child. Despite his orders to leave, she follows him. Her wide eyes differ from his central eye that opens when he exerts extraordinary power. Yet the Golem cannot resist them. Nor can he forget how Somali smiles at him. So, he leaves food for her. And despite his programming to preserve the order of nature, the Golem builds a fire for her at night.

 

Shizuno’s features and height suggest he is a child like Somali. And like the Golem, Yabashira cares for his master. He washes him, cooks his meals, and smiles at the Golem’s protectiveness of Somali. Yabashira nudges the Golem like he would a friend or brother, prompting the Golem to act or overcome its surprise. Yet when danger threatens, the Golem doesn’t hesitate to protect Somali. And as in the desert, when he protected Haitora from death, each use of his extraordinary abilities weakens the Golem in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5.

 

At their first meeting, Shizuno asked for a piece of the Golem's skin. Shizuno was surprised when the Golem promptly sliced off a section of his skin in return for teaching him. Yako Gureishi's latest tale explains the Golem's lack of hesitation. Creaking and crackling fill the air when the Golem uses his powers. Air currents erupt as plants burst into rapid growth. And while a local sings, music notes attend a song that reminds the young how dangerous Humans will always be. Thanks to Titan Manga for providing a physical review copy.

 

Final Thoughts

The Golem may regard supporting others as the most efficient course of action. Yet the people he and Somali meet act on their fear of others. Economic concerns force the population to prey on each other. And as the Golem realizes its final days are approaching, the greatest threat to its Human ward's life arises in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5.

 

Rating 9.8/10

 

To look inside see my preview of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 5.

 

For how they crossed the Osuna Desert, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

For how they met Haitora and Uzoi, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3.

 

For how they learned where more Humans live, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. 

 

For how this series started, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

 

Somali and The Forest Spirit Vol 5 Preview

 

They have braved the dangers of walking among the Fantastical creatures. Somali and her "dad" have safely traversed the Osuna Desert. Along the way, the Human girl and the Golem have made friends. And as the old librarian in the Witch Village said, they have let their light inside them shine. 

Yet there are always new things to discover. After reuniting with their friends Shizuno and Yabashira in Chompers' Row, Somali and the Golem find themselves in Bygone City. A Snow Crossing fills the inns, and thieves and gangs rule the streets. Yet a landlord has hired the Golem, Shizuno, and his assistant Yabashira to work security in his inn. How long will they remain in the town where the locals prey on the travelers? And can they procure provisions to continue on their journey?

Here's all the info from Titan Manga:

 

Somali and The Forest Spirit Vol. 5

Author & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Paperback Price: $12.99

Book Length: 112 pages (Black & White)

ISBN: 9781787743663

Release Date: June 9, 2026

 

 

From the hit anime on Crunchyroll, Somali and her Golem father continue their enchanting journey in a world where humanity has nearly been wiped out.

 

This heartwarming fantasy manga is featured on 

Publisher Weekly’s 10 Must-Read Manga of 2024 list.

 

 

In Somali and the Forest Spirit Volume 5, Somali and her Golem father’s journey takes a dramatic turn as they venture into the lawless city of Arishikka, where danger lurks at every corner. While searching for clues about Somali’s lost family, they meet Shizuku, a fellow traveler with her own questions. In this chaotic city, the truth about Somali’s identity is finally revealed, and her Golem companion’s motivations become clearer.

 

This volume delves into the heart of the story, recounting the pivotal moment of their first meeting and shedding light on the mysterious bond that has kept them together. As the duo face both external threats and internal questions about their relationship, Volume 5 explores identity, family, and the meaning of companionship in a world where trust is scarce, and survival is a daily struggle.

 

With its richly developed world, filled with magic, mystery, and complex characters, Somali and the Forest Spirit continues to captivate readers with its heartfelt narrative and emotional depth, reminiscent of The Last of Us and The Mandalorian. This fifth volume unveils new revelations and offers a deeper understanding of Somali and Golem’s unforgettable journey.

 

Fans of the 12-episode anime series on Crunchyroll will find additional depth in the manga’s exploration of this unique world, while newcomers will be entranced by Yako Gureishi’s masterful storytelling and stunning artwork. The series, featured on PW’s 10 Must-Read Manga of of 2024 List, is a top pick for anyone who loves fantasy and heartfelt adventures.

 

 

Now, let's take a look inside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-order now from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million, and Forbidden Planet for the UK & Europe.

 

 

Thanks to Titan Manga for sharing this preview with us.

 

 

For how they crossed the Osuna Desert, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

For how they met Haitora and Uzoi, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3.

 

For how they learned where more Humans live, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. 

 

For how this series started, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4 Review

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4 Review

Writer & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Translator: Motoko Tamamuro & Jonathan Clements

Letterer: Skylar Rutan

Cover Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Price: $12.99

Release Date: December 23, 2025

 

Crossing the Kosuna Desert could have been easy. Instead, Somali begged her father for an adventure. The tour guide agreed that an overland journey was preferable to an underground trolley ride. Responsible parenting involves more than keeping your children safe, he counseled. If parents don't provide their children with good memories, they will grow up to be good for nothing.

 

After the wonders of the Kosuna Desert, the Golem and Somali arrive in Winecup Village, the resting point for travelers braving the deserts. No underground trolleys or overland caravans are available for the next portion of their journey. But after Somali fights with a young Noble Harpy over the last bowl of sugarcane ice cream in a restaurant, the Golem and the Human girl befriend Haitora and his ward Uzoi. What dangers will they face while crossing the Osuna Desert together? And what discoveries will they make about each other? Let’s grab our walking sticks, leap into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4, and see!

 

Story

Uzoi introduced Haitora as a Falcohol, a race with a bird head. But like Somali, Haitora wears a disguise. He is also Human. Unlike Somali, Haitora suffers from a fatal disease. Yet like Somali, Uzoi has also lost her parents. So as the two travel together, they seek a remedy for Haitora’s affliction. Yet, after a trying crisis in a cave, Haitora bears his soul to the Golem, not realizing that Uzoi is eavesdropping.

 

In Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4, Haitora tells the Golem about his life before he met Uzoi. He lived with other Humans in a farming community. Then the enchanted animal races found them. They burned their village and captured or killed the inhabitants. Seeking revenge and sustenance after the enchanted animals’ devastating attack, Haitora caught and killed a Noble Harpy. But while the enchanted animals can eat Humans, their enchantment brings sickness and death to any Humans who eat them.

 

While Yako Gureishi’s story addresses how prejudice weakens us, it also reminds us that forgiveness is essential to building strong relationships. As they explore their world and search for Somali’s people, the Golem and the Human girl reconnect with friends they've met along the way. They may live in a world of dangers, where Humans are a threatened species. Despite the Golem's desire to care for Somali, his one-thousand-year-old body nears its expiration date. Still, the Golem cares for her as best he can, and both find the kindnesses to others and the friendships they’ve made repaid in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

Art

Short hair on Haitora’s brow functions as a part. Long, straight hair frames his wife and daughter’s faces. Yet after he eats a Noble Harpy, feathers sprout from his right eye and cover his cheek. Haitora hides his affliction behind a bird mask with a long, downcurved beak. His ward, Uzoi, has long, blond hair like his late wife and daughter. But wings sprout from her head and back, and feathers surround her eyes and line her arms. She has talons instead of feet with toes. As Uzoi sits with Somali in the covered wagon, Haitora and the Golem direct their horse toward a whirlwind. Yet that is not the only danger they will face in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

As Yako Gureishi conjures worlds with his detailed art, cottages lining flagstone streets give way to multilevel buildings with arched, flower-bedecked windows. The multiple eyes on a tiny, refined character evoke false cat, one of the dangers Somali encountered in the first city she visited. And as pennants hang before intricate screens, the Golem and Somali encounter friends they met while following their outdated map through the forest. Forests lacking foliage recall the cost of the Golem abandoning his grove to return Somali to her people. Yet when multilevel flat-roofed homes crowd the pathways of another village, another opportunity for Somali to make more good memories awaits.

 

Motoko Tamamuro and Jonathan Clements translate the uppercase letters that appear in balloons, boxes, and panel backgrounds. Intense emotions turn the balloons spiky when Haitora recalls his traumatic past. Skylar Rutan’s sound effects enhance the dangers of the Osuna Desert, a skilled practitioner attending to Somali's needs, and the Golem learning new skills. Thanks to Titan Manga for providing a physical review copy.

 

Final Thoughts

After the Golem and the Human girl search for the missing Humans they learned about in the Witch Village, the Golem and Somali experience many of the wonders of their world. Yet the greatest wonders are how they have grown, and how their relationship has enriched their lives in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

Rating 9.6/10

 

To look inside see my preview of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4.

 

For their adventures in Anthole City, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3. 

 

For their discoveries in the Witch Village, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. 

 

For how this series started, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3 Review

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3 Review

Writer & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Translator: Motoko Tamamuro & Jonathan Clements

Letterer: Skylar Rutan

Cover Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Price: $12.99

Release Date: August 19, 2025

 

After departing the witch village, the Golem and Somali reach the foot of a mountain amid the forest. A guide directs them to the entrance and leads them inside to Anthole City. It's a thriving multilevel community tunneled into the heart of the mountain. Yet unlike the witch village, no one in the myriad of shops and restaurants offers them a free sample.

 

When the Golem tries to buy a map for the lands beyond the mountain, the shopkeeper suggests that they upgrade their wardrobe. Their clothes were fine for traveling through forests. When they reach the exit on the other side of the mountain, they will find the desert a more demanding environment. Can the Golem and Somali afford better clothes? And how does Somali feel about her life with the Golem? Let’s grab our walking sticks, leap into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3, and see!

 

Story

While the Golem works for Kikilila and his wife Giina in their restaurant, Somali plays with the couple’s child. Kikila enjoys drawing flowers. So, when Somali shares her fear that he will eventually leave her, Kikila knows how to relieve her fears. Children aren't supposed to venture into the lower levels without adult supervision. But if Kikila and Somali can return with a Yozame flower, they can make her wish come true.

 

While Yako Gureishi keeps the spotlight on the Human girl in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3, the Golem also gets a chance to shine. As he stumbles amid the hurdles of parenthood, Kokilila serves as a coach. Another local takes an interest in the travelers as the Golem works to fund their journey. Muthrica warns the Golem not to promise Somali more than it should. Yet even after the Golem and Somali depart Anthole City, Gureishi checks in on the Woolly Shurigara family in his extra one-page stories in between chapters. Kokilila, Giina, and Kikila may live in a bustling city teeming with interesting people. Yet when their new friends depart, they leave part of themselves behind.

 

After the endless possibilities of Anthole City, the travelers discover that the desert is far from barren. Instead, it sparkles with life by day and night. Yet the greatest mysteries they face are their fellow travelers, and the relationship that the Human girl and the Golem are building in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3.

 

Art

While Somali disguises her appearance by wearing a horned cloak, Kikila resembles a bipedal llama. As they venture beneath Anthole City, plants, bushes, and flowers spring up amid the stalagmites. Mushrooms rise above them as in Alice in Wonderland, while a jellyfish wafts among the stalactites. Kikila helps the girl hide as a giant snail-like creature passes. But even the plants are on alert against travelers and eager to defend themselves.

 

Yako Gureishi grounds the imaginative with the recognizable to create a compelling fantasy world in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3. Detailed art and shading bring this world to life. A medieval-style inn amid a labyrinth of tunnels proves a welcome refuge. The Golem's purchases in Anthole City reveal its feelings for the girl and its growth. While night scenes glow with life and wonder, Somali's delight in each culinary discovery also contributes to the striking realism amid the fantastic.

 

Motoko Tamamuro and Jonathan Clements translate the uppercase letters that appear in balloons, boxes, and panel backgrounds. Intense emotions turn balloons spiky when Kikila demonstrates bravery, and his parents show their concern. Skylar Rutan’s sound effects enhance Kikila and Somali's adventure beneath Anthole City, their journey through the desert, and their encounters with the people and creatures they meet. Thanks to Titan Manga for providing a physical review copy.

 

Final Thoughts

The Golem fears that the enchanted animals will discover that Somali is a Human. The girl shows little interest in finding her own people and wants to remain with her "dad." But as the dying librarian told them in the witch village, they walk a different path from most people. The light she saw in the travelers' eyes may dim at times, but it never dies in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3.

 

Rating 10/10

 

To look inside, see my preview of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 3.

 

For what happened last time, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. 

 

For how this series started, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2 Review

      

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2 Review

Writer & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Translator: Mellow Brown

Letterer: Skylar Rutan

Cover Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Price: $12.99

Release Date: March 26, 2025

 

A traveler in the woods suggested they visit the witch village. So, following their outdated map, the Golem and Somali reach a cluster of buildings in the forest. As they traverse the streets, the witches ply them with food and drink. While the little girl loves the samples, the Golem knows they are short on funds.

 

After the Golem explains why they've arrived, the witches direct them to the library. There, Hazel searches for a book written by a Human. Can The Chronicles of Haraiso tell them where the Humans have gone? And can the Golem reunite the little girl with her people? Let’s grab our walking sticks, leap into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2, and see!

 

Story

Hazel obeys the rules stringently, but her sister observes them more in spirit than in practice. Praline has removed the book without authorization. Worse, she keeps it in a dusty room where she eats. When Somali pulls the book from the shelf, another cloud of dust summons the Pescafish. The creatures swarm in the room, seeking to devour all the ink-soaked pages.

 

In Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2, the witches worship the Earth and travel the world in search of wisdom. They collect books, store them in their library, and study the world and its inhabitants. Praline's disregard for the rules has endangered what her community most prizes. Even if they can fend off the Pescafish, Praline faces dire consequences for her infraction. But the Golem doesn’t care about the witches’ rules. While he protects Somali, he also fights to find any Human settlements in a world where the other intelligent species hate them.

 

In Yako Gureishi's story, Somali doesn't share the Golem's urgency. She calls him Father and delights in his company. But the Golem knows it doesn't have much time left. Before its mechanisms stop functioning, the Golem wants to help return Somali to her people. After spending most of its life caring for the forest, the Golem never tries to harm people in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. But like Praline, it disregards the rules and laws of the societies it visits. After learning what it can from the library, this creature of gears, levers, and science braves the witches' magical defenses for clues to where he can find any communities of the endangered Human species.

 

Art

After meeting the witches who offered them platters of food and goblets of magical wine, surrounded by fluttering fairies, the Golem clutches Somali as fish with transparent skin swim through the air. Hazel summons bird familiars and conjures magic to defeat the bookeaters. But the school of Pescafish surprises her by forming a giant fish that gobbles up books in its massive maw. Like a medieval knight, the Golem stands before Somali, crossing his armored arms, intent on sacrificing itself to protect the Human girl.

 

Yako Gureishi enhances the detailed art with shading, crafting memorable characters and settings in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2. Hazel and Praline resemble teenagers. Yet when a young witch briefly takes over the narrative, her similarity to Somali clarifies Hazel's explanation of how witches differ from Humans. In addition to their innate differences, the two species also craft their villages differently. Humans favor straight lines and rectangular structures. The witches build round homes, and their multilayered village extends into the interior of an enormous tree. While the Humans' inhabitations represent the known, the witches' community invokes awe at the wonders it holds.

 

Mellow Brown translates the uppercase letters that appear in balloons, boxes, and panel backgrounds. A weakened witch’s speech fills blobby balloons and boxes. And when a young witch grows frightened, white uppercase letters appear in black balloons. Skylar Rutan’s sound effects enhance the battle in the library, the Golem’s desperate search for the truth, and an accident that threatens to separate two friends forever. Thanks to Titan Manga for providing a physical review copy.

 

Now, let's take a look inside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Some enchanted animals kill Humans for sport. Others buy them in the market when they can find them, even if their meat isn’t the best for cooking. Someone left Somali shackled in the Golem’s forest. So, after disguising the Human girl, it takes her on a journey to find her people. In this story about friendship, fear, and found family, the Golem learns more about its own kind and why the other intelligent species hate Humanity in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 2.

 

Rating 9.8/10

 

For what happened before, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1 Review

 

Writer & Artist: Yako Gureishi

Translators: Motoko Tamamuro & Jonathan Clements

Letterer: Ayoub Bensidi

Cover Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

Price: $12.99

Release Date: December 18, 2024

 

When the forest guardian finds a shackled child, something in her sad eyes touches his internal mechanisms. The metal man frees the Human girl. He packs supplies, puts on traveling clothes, and escorts her out of the forest. Where is the metal man taking her? And why did he give the Human girl a hooded cape adorned with horns? Let’s grab our walking sticks, leap into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1, and find out!

 

Story

The first town they visit proves pivotal in the traveler's burgeoning relationship. The child knows her name is Somali, but little else. The metal man lacks experience with those living outside his forest. The inhabitants clamor to meet the forest guardian. They may live in a town. Still, they revere the woodlands for their life and vitality.

 

Toad Ma offers them free food, hoping to attract curious customers. The forest guardian tells them he is searching for Humans. Some townspeople recall Humans for sale in the marketplace. Toad Ma ate one once but prefers other foods. When the townspeople inquire about Somali, the forest guardian introduces her as a Minotaur. The locals see the horns rising from her hood and don't question his declaration. Still, a False Cat with five eyes thinks she smells delicious.

 

In Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1, the metal man has limited funds for their journey. When he buys an old map, he and Somali end up in a Relict Forest. The only healthy plants sprout from the giant animal carcass of the former guardian. The gray trees and white leaves remind the metal man of his sacrifice. By escorting Somali on a mission to find her parents, he condemned his forest to wither and die.

 

Yako Gureishi shares the wonder this odd couple feels for each other. The girl delights in each discovery. The forest guardian claims he has no feelings. Yet he argues with her, tends to her wounds, and grows unsettled when she expresses pain. Somali calls him Dad and holds his hand while they walk. As they search for clues to Somali's parents, the forest guardian learns new skills and gets more in tune with his feelings through interacting with others.

 

Art

Yako Gureishi immediately launches readers into Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. The metal man kneels before the shackled child. Then, they embark on their journey wearing traveling clothes, cloaks, and lace-up boots.

 

Plants and giant mushrooms grow in the narrow streets of Toad Ma's walled city. Trees and bridges provide shelter, while enchanted mammals, reptiles, and birds wear clothes and hats. A woman with six arms waits tables and gifts Somali a three-eyed fish on a plate.

 

The golem can appear as fearsome as the alligator and dinosaur-like citizens who walk upright and wear clothes. His lace-up mask hides a large eye in the center of his "face." After Somali wanders off, the golem suggests she hold one of his metal fingers with her tiny hand. She may wander to explore the animals and plants, but Somali returns to walk or sit beside him. When she cuddles beside him, he rests his hand on her back as she sleeps.

 

Motoko Tamamuro & Jonathan Clements translate the uppercase dialogue that inhabits balloons and the background. The rattle of wheels through the forest alerts the golem to danger. And when someone removes her hood, Ayoub Bensidi’s sound effects help you feel the Forest Guardian's inner turmoil in Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1.

 

Physical Copy

This paperback features an attractive glossy color cover and spine with secure binding. Despite the detailed nature of Yako Gureishi's work, the interior pages hold the ink well. The binding is secure, and the paper quality prevents bleed-through. Dialogue and sound effects may vary in size, yet the print is easy to read. Thanks to Titan Manga for providing a physical review copy.

Final Thoughts

Compared with the enchanted animals that rule the world, golems seem immortal. Yet few ever see them, as they tend to stick to their forests. In Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1, the golem has a new purpose. He wants to travel and reunite a lost child with her parents. Leaving the only home he has ever known, the golem explores nearby forests, towns, and villages. As he searches for the endangered Humans, the golem gets a chance to learn and grow, just like the girl he protects.

 

Rating 9.8/10

 

 

To look inside see my preview of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1. 

Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 4 Preview

 

 

Earth looks much different in the future. Forests dominate the land. Animals gained intelligence, but didn't get along with their fellow Humans. As in the Planet of the Apes, Humans are the minority species. The best they can hope for is to be slaves. 

When a mechanical golem finds a Human child bound and abandoned, it leaves the forest that it protects and takes her on a journey across their world. Can the golem help Somali find her parents? And what dangers and marvels will they encounter along the way?

Here's all the info from Titan Manga:

 

SOMALI AND THE FOREST SPIRIT VOL. 4

Author/Artist: Yako Gureishi

Publisher: Titan Manga

SC, 176pp, B&W, $12.99

ISBN: 9781787743656

On sale: December 23, 2025

 

"Top 10 Must Read Manga of 2024" - Publishers Weekly

 

Explore a heartwarming journey in this cozy fantasy manga, where a father and his adopted daughter embark on magical adventures in a richly imagined world. From the eponymous Crunchyroll anime and set in a world where humanity has been hunted to near extinction.

 

In Somali and the Forest Spirit Volume 4, the heartwarming journey of Somali and her Golem father continues as they venture deeper into the Edgelands in search of other humans. This volume introduces enchanting new encounters and settings, including a delightful evening of baking in a woodpecker’s cozy cabin and a memorable reunion in Chompers' Row. Each step in their adventure not only brings them closer to their goal but also deepens their bond.

 

Fans of rich fantasy worlds will be captivated by the unique setting, filled with magic, spirits, witches, and Oni. The father-daughter dynamic central to the story will resonate with those who appreciate emotional narratives akin to The Last of Us and The Mandalorian. As the fourth installment in this six-part series, this volume continues to build on the captivating tale of a lost human girl and her devoted golem guardian.

 

Somali and the Forest Spirit is a perfect complement to the hit 12-episode anime on Crunchyroll, offering additional depth and charm that fans will love. Yako Gureishi’s signature blend of wonder and whimsy shines through in both the story and artwork, making this a must-read for fans of fantasy and heartfelt adventures.

 

 

Now, let's take a look inside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-order now from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million, and Forbidden Planet for the UK & Europe. 

 

 

To see how this series began, see my review of Somali and the Forest Spirit Vol 1.

 

Thanks to Titan Manga for sharing this preview with us.