Eiko Kadono, the celebrated Japanese author, is set to release the third instalment in her beloved Kiki’s Delivery Service series, titled *Kiki and the Other Witch*, in early 2027. This long-awaited book will mark its debut in North America, much to the anticipation of fans and new readers alike.
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The narrative of *Kiki and the Other Witch* follows the now 16-year-old Kiki, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. In this new adventure, Kiki encounters a 12-year-old girl named Keke, who possesses magical abilities that challenge Kiki’s understanding of her own identity as a witch. This encounter leads Kiki to delve deeper into her powers and helps her to explore what it truly means to be a witch.
Kadono expressed her excitement about the publication, stating, “I am truly delighted that this volume, like the second, will be published in English and shared with readers around the world.” Her sentiments reflect her dedication to making Kiki’s stories accessible to a broader audience, allowing them to experience the charm and warmth of her narrative.
The first book in the series, *Kiki’s Delivery Service*, was originally published in Japan in 1985 and introduced readers to Kiki, a young witch who leaves her home to spend a year living independently. The book’s popularity soared after it was adapted into an animated film by Studio Ghibli in 1989, which remains a beloved classic today. Kadono continued the tale in 1993 with *Kiki and the New Magic*, further enchanting readers with Kiki’s magical escapades.
*Kiki and the Other Witch* is set to be translated by Emily Balistrieri and illustrated by Yuta Onoda, ensuring that the book’s magical essence and cultural nuances are preserved for English-speaking audiences. In a recent interview, Kadono shared that Kiki faces an unexpected crisis in this third volume, highlighting a theme of friendship that can arise from surprising places. “Sometimes a person whose personality is completely different from your own can become a cherished friend,” she noted, suggesting an underlying message about the importance of understanding and accepting others.
The book has certainly garnered interest from the publishing world. Ali Romig, an editor at Delacorte Press, praised Kadono’s unique writing style, stating, “Eiko Kadono’s gentle, warm and one-of-a-kind style of writing is special in today’s fast-moving world.” She added that each of Kadono’s works is infused with everyday magic that provides a refreshing escape for readers.
Moreover, the release of *Kiki and the Other Witch* complements the upcoming publication of *Kiki and the New Magic* in the U.S., which is set for August 25. Alongside this, a deluxe edition of the original *Kiki’s Delivery Service* will also become available, allowing both long-time fans and new readers to immerse themselves in Kiki’s enchanting world.
Scheduled for release on February 23, 2027, *Kiki and the Other Witch* is now available for pre-order, allowing eager fans to secure their copies ahead of time. With her relatable characters and themes of self-discovery, Kadono’s latest tale promises to resonate with readers of all ages.
As the publication date approaches, readers can look forward to diving into yet another magical chapter of Kiki’s journey, exploring the complexities of friendship and the magic that exists in everyday life. Kadono’s compelling storytelling continues to capture the imagination, making her work an enduring favourite in children’s literature.