Introducing the VIZ Originals One-Shots Program

So I went to the Viz website to look up when the second volume of Hirayasumi drops and stumbled upon the news that the manga publisher was launching a new project tiled the VIZ Originals One-Shots program created “for aspiring mangaka,” run by former Weekly Shonen Jump editor-in-chief Hisashi SASAKI! I love manga and adore a good one-shot via manga. A one shot in manga is more commonly known as a single, sometimes standalone story. It is the manga equivalent of a short story and an excellent way for readers to get a feel for a manga creator’s storytelling and art style. The first one-shots in this new project–which are free to read–dropped this weekend on June 7th and I went on to read them and gave my thoughts below! Minor and major spoilers may follow below

Looking up more information on the Viz website I learned: “VIZ Originals One-Shots showcase aspiring mangaka working in English. You can read all-new stories by up-and-coming creators and be the first to read the hits of the future. The program is led by renowned former Weekly Shonen Jump editor-in-chief Hisashi SASAKI! For the first time outside of Japan, the editor who helped bring to life some of manga’s greatest hits is lending his expertise to develop exciting new talent. Select one-shots will be expanded into a series, so read and cheer for your favorite new manga! Check back monthly for new one-shots – only in VIZ Manga!”

Ancient Melody Story and A…